4-5. Jonathan decided to get to the Philistine camp by going through the pass that led between Shiny Cliff and Michmash to the north and Thorn Bush Cliff and Geba to the south.
35. It was the first altar Saul had built for offering sacrifices to the Lord.
36. Saul said, “Let's attack the Philistines again while it's still dark. We can fight them all night. Let's kill them and take everything they own!”The people answered, “We will do whatever you want.”“Wait!” Ahijah the priest said. “Let's ask God what we should do.”
37. Saul asked God, “Should I attack the Philistines? Will you help us win?”This time God did not answer.
38. Saul called his army officers together and said, “We have to find out what sin has kept God from answering.
39. I swear by the living Lord that whoever sinned must die, even if it turns out to be my own son Jonathan.”No one said a word.
40. Saul told his army, “You stand on that side of the priest, and Jonathan and I will stand on the other side.”Everyone agreed.