1 Samuel 20:27-29

New International Version - UK

²⁷ But the next day, the second day of the month, David’s place was empty again. Then Saul said to his son Jonathan, ‘Why hasn’t the son of Jesse come to the meal, either yesterday or today?’

²⁸ Jonathan answered, ‘David earnestly asked me for permission to go to Bethlehem. ²⁹ He said, “Let me go, because our family is observing a sacrifice in the town and my brother has ordered me to be there. If I have found favour in your eyes, let me go to see my brothers.” That is why he has not come to the king’s table.’