And Jonathan stripped off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his garments, and even his sword and his bow and his belt — Jonathan's *va'yishlotz Yehonatan et ha'meila asher alav va'yitneha le'David*, the stripping off and giving of his robe, represents a ritual transfer of identity, authority, and warrior status. The *meila* (outer robe, royal garment) functions as a symbol of rank; by removing it, Jonathan renounces the outward markers of his position. The *cherev*, sword, and *qeshet*, bow, are weapons, the tools of war and authority; giving them to David is an act of extraordinary renunciation. His *agora*, belt, was worn by men of standing; its transfer marks David's elevation. This stripping foreshadows Jonathan's later role as David's advocate and protector.

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