20:6 then say. Jonathan goes along with David’s pretext in vv. 28, 29. In evaluating the ethics of such actions, one might compare the Lord’s instructions to Samuel in 16:2 (note), although in that context the excuse was a half-truth and not an outright untruth, as it seems to be here.

Bethlehem. See note 16:1.

yearly sacrifice. See note 1:3; cf. 1:21.