The answer is: Jonathan

1 Sam 18:1,3

Ah, the legendary friendship of David and Jonathan! It’s one of the most touching narratives in the Bible, emphasizing loyalty, affection, and commitment that transcends even familial bonds. Jonathan, the son of King Saul, recognized early on David’s potential and bravery, especially after the defeat of Goliath. Their camaraderie provides a beautiful contrast to the enmity that arises between Saul and David.

In Israelite culture, friendships were vital, and covenants between friends, like the one David and Jonathan made, signified deep allegiance. When they sealed their bond, as noted in scripture, it symbolized more than mere friendship; it was a thrilling acknowledgment of God’s plan harmonizing their paths—especially in a tumultuous time when Jonathan could have been a fierce rival to David's budding reign.

Trivia time! Did you know the name "Jonathan" means "God has given"? His very name seems to proclaim a divine orchestration of events, bringing David support at a pivotal time. Despite their status as warrior friends, it appears their masculinity allowed room for emotional depth, which waves a beautiful flag of human relationships!

Interestingly, this friendship echoes through literature and art for countless generations as a quintessential narrative of loyalty. From the tales of Gilgamesh and Enkidu to modern alliances you see in movies, David and Jonathan’s bond is often cited as the gold standard—proving trust and connections can bridge even the fiercest divides.