Jonathan pleads with his father on David’s behalf. His approach is verbal, naturally supported by his deep affection for both Saul and David: he needs to save David from death and his father from wrongdoing. His brief speech acts as a strong defense: David is innocent; it would be unjust to harm him. David is a benefactor; it would be unfair not to reward him. David has been an instrument of the Lord; it would be dangerous to attack him. Here, Jonathan introduces the central theme of the following chapters: the conflict between David and Saul concerning the innocence and guilt of both. Verses 8-10 parallel 18:10ff, a tradition that recounts Saul’s attempt to kill David.