Who was the son of Saul and close friend of David?

Who was the son of Saul and close friend of David? Jonathan was Saul’s son and David’s close friend.

Jonathan is presented in the Books of Samuel as the eldest son of King Saul and a brave military leader. He first gains prominence through daring attacks against Philistine forces, including an assault at Michmash carried out with only his armor-bearer. His courage and skill made him an important figure in Saul’s early reign.

Jonathan formed a deep covenant friendship with David after David’s rise to prominence. Although David was increasingly viewed as Saul’s rival and the future king, Jonathan did not abandon him. He warned David about Saul’s intentions, helped him escape danger, and accepted that David—not Jonathan—would inherit the royal future.

Jonathan’s loyalty created tension with Saul, who viewed David as a threat. Jonathan died alongside Saul and his brothers during a battle with the Philistines on Mount Gilboa. David mourned him in the lament recorded in 2 Samuel 1, praising Jonathan’s love and battlefield excellence. Jonathan was also the father of Mephibosheth, whom David later protected.