First Reading2 Samuel 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27
From the Second Book of Samuel
1After the death of Saul,when David had returned from the slaughter of the Amalekites,and David had stayed two days in Ziklag,2on the third day, behold,a man came out of the camp from Saul,with his clothes torn and earth on his head.When he came to David,he fell to the earth and showed respect.
3David said to him, “Where do you come from?”
He said to him, “I have escaped out of the camp of Israel.”
4David said to him, “How did it go?Please tell me.”
He answered, “The people have fled from the battle,and many of the people also have fallen and are dead.Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also.”
verses 5–10 are not read11Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them;and all the men who were with him did likewise.12They mourned, wept,and fasted until evening for Sauland for Jonathan his son,and for the people of the Lord,and for the house of Israel,because they had fallen by the sword.
verses 13–18 are not read19“Your glory, Israel, was slain on your high places!How the mighty have fallen! verses 20–22 are not read23Saul and Jonathan were lovely and pleasant in their lives.In their death, they were not divided.They were swifter than eagles.They were stronger than lions.24You daughters of Israel, weep over Saul,who clothed you delicately in scarlet,who put ornaments of gold on your clothing.25How the mighty have fallen in the middle of the battle!Jonathan was slain on your high places.26I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan.You have been very pleasant to me.Your love to me was wonderful,surpassing the love of women.27How the mighty have fallen,and the weapons of war have perished!”