17 And Jonathan had David reaffirm his oath out of love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself.
17 And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.
17 And Jonathan made David swear again by his love for him, for he loved him as he loved his own soul.
17 Jonathan repeated his pledge of love and friendship for David. He loved David more than his own soul!
17 Now Jonathan again caused David to vow, because he loved him; for he loved him as he loved his own soul.
17 And Jonathan made David reaffirm his vow of friendship again, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:17
Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:11-23
(Read 1 Samuel 20:11-23)
Jonathan faithfully promises that he would let David know how he found his father affected towards him. It will be kindness to ourselves and to ours, to secure an interest in those whom God favours, and to make his friends ours. True friendship rests on a firm basis, and is able to silence ambition, self-love, and undue regard for others. But who can fully understand the love of Jesus, who gave himself as a sacrifice for rebellious, polluted sinners! how great then ought to be the force and effects of our love to him, to his cause, and his people!