Though the NIV mentions an outpost, it is possible that Jonathan’s attack focused on a person, the assassination of a Philistine official.1 It is not clear why Jonathan took the initiative to attack the Philistine outpost/governor. It could be that he did so on his father’s instructions, an idea that is supported by the fact that Saul chose a number of men (1 Samuel 13:2) for a purpose. Some scholars argue that the mention of Jonathan attacking the outpost rather than Saul is a negative reflection on Saul’s kingship.2
3 Jonathan defeated the garrison of the Philistines that was at Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, “Let the Hebrews hear.”