8 Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them.
8 Jonathan said, "Come on, then; we will cross over toward them and let them see us.
8 Then Jonathan said, "Behold, we will cross over to the men, and we will show ourselves to them.
8 Jonathan said, "Here's what we'll do. We'll cross over the pass and let the men see we're there.
8 Then Jonathan said, "Very well, let us cross over to these men, and we will show ourselves to them.
8 "All right then," Jonathan told him. "We will cross over and let them see us.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:8
Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:1-15
(Read 1 Samuel 14:1-15)
Saul seems to have been quite at a loss, and unable to help himself. Those can never think themselves safe who see themselves out of God's protection. Now he sent for a priest and the ark. He hopes to make up matters with the Almighty by a partial reformation, as many do whose hearts are unhumbled and unchanged. Many love to have ministers who prophesy smooth things to them. Jonathan felt a Divine impulse and impression, putting him upon this bold adventure. God will direct the steps of those that acknowledge him in all their ways, and seek to him for direction, with full purpose of heart to follow his guidance. Sometimes we find most comfort in that which is least our own doing, and into which we have been led by the unexpected but well-observed turns of Divine providence. There was trembling in the host. It is called a trembling of God, signifying, not only a great trembling they could not resist, nor reason themselves out of, but that it came at once from the hand of God. He that made the heart, knows how to make it tremble.