But the king protected Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth. Jonathan was Saul’s son, but David had made a promise in the Lord’s name to Jonathan. [121] So the king did not let them hurt Mephibosheth.
Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace. We used the Lord’s name and promised to be friends. We said that the Lord will be the witness between us and our descendants [178] forever.”
Now make a promise to me. Use the Lord’s name and promise that you will not kill my descendants, [196] even after I die. Promise me that you will not erase my name from my father’s family.”