Alan at Scrum Central has a link to wouldjesusdiscriminate.org. There you will find this article: David loved Jonathan more than women. The author makes the case that the Bible sanctions "an intense love between these two that went well beyond friendship." Read the article and see if you agree.
I've read this and other articles on this website with interest, and I certainly agree that David and Jonathan were lovers. In fact, it seems rather obvious, given the linguistic and translation background.
ReplyDeleteOnce we accept that David and Jonathan were indeed lovers, we have to ask what, exactly, does this mean? Does it necessarily mean God endorsed this union, simply because it happened? The article states the following:
"In this story, we have a direct biblical answer to our question: Can two people of the same sex live in a loving, committed relationship with God’s favor? The answer is 'yes,' because Jonathan and David did, and the Bible celebrates their relationship."
But does the Bible really "celebrate" their relationship, or merely record it? How can we be sure they had "God's favor", as the author suggests? After all, the Bible also duly documents David's affair with Bathsheba--but that doesn't mean it condones it.
The proverb "The more you know, the less you know" comes to mind!
It is an interesting situation in the Bible. I find it hard to believe that David and Jonathan had a "bromance." It does imply there is more than just a kinship. I remember thinking that my attraction to guys was just a "close friendship."
ReplyDeleteAn ex-JW friend of mine who's biblically well read seems to think there is sufficient evidence to suggest a gay relationship between these two figures. To say that David loved Jonathan more than women is quite profound. I have yet to meet a straight guy that loves his best bud more than his woman.
Slow in responding on this one. My scriptures are highlighted with red all over 1 and 2 Samuel regarding David and Jonathan. This story has needless to say, fascinated me over the years.
ReplyDeleteFor a long time I considered this story crucial to what I seek in "bromance" relationships. I have used it as a guide, even justification, for such relationships over the course of my life.
I have come to believe that there is some truth to the "more than bromance" take on this story. And it encourages me to believe that such intense love for another man bound with intense loyalty and devotion and unity of souls knit together can be seen as good and right and holy.