The Haftarah portion for Shabbat Mahar Hodesh (1 Sam. 20:18-42) narrated in English by Ronald Guttman.
Questions for Discussion:
Despite Biblical commands to honor and revere parents, and despite the respect and loyalty due to a king, Jonathan here is disloyal to his father the king in order to protect and remain loyal to his beloved friend David.
• How do you resolve conflicting loyalties in your own life?
• At what point does unethical, inappropriate or irrational behavior—such as Saul’s rage here—forfeit the loyalty and respect even of family?

JTS wishes to acknowledge the generosity of the Jewish Publication Society for allowing us to use their translation.