1 Now there was a famine in the days of David for three years, year after year. And David sought the face of the Lord. And the Lord said, “There is bloodguilt on Saul and on his house, because he put the Gibeonites to death.”
2 So the king called the Gibeonites and spoke to them. (Now the Gibeonites were not of the people of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites. Although the people of Israel had sworn to spare them, Saul had sought to strike them down in his zeal for the people of Israel and Judah.)
3 And David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? And how shall I make atonement, that you may bless the heritage of the Lord?”
4 Then the Gibeonites said to him, “We have no concern of silver or gold with Saul or his house, nor is it for us to put any man to death in Israel.” And he said, “What do you say that I shall do for you?”
5 They said to the king, “The man who consumed us and planned to destroy us, so that we should have no place in all the territory of Israel,
6 let seven of his sons be given to us, so that we may hang them before the Lord at Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of the Lord.” And the king said, “I will give them.”
7 But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Saul’s son Jonathan, because of the oath of the Lord that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.
8 But the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of Merab the daughter of Saul, whom she bore to Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite.
9 and he gave them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them on the mountain before the Lord, and the seven of them perished together. And they were put to death in the first days of harvest, at the beginning of barley harvest.
10 Then Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it for herself on the rock, from the beginning of harvest until rain fell upon them from the heavens. And she did not allow the birds of the air to come upon them by day, or the beasts of the field by night.
11 And when David was told what Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, the concubine of Saul, had done,
12 he went and took the bones of Saul and the bones of his son Jonathan from the men of Jabesh-gilead, who had stolen them from the public square of Beth-shan, where the Philistines had hanged them on the day the Philistines killed Saul on Gilboa.
13 And he brought up from there the bones of Saul and the bones of his son Jonathan; and they gathered the bones of those who were hanged.
14 And the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan were buried in the land of Benjamin in Zela, in the tomb of Kish his father. And they did all that the king commanded. And after that God responded to the plea for the land.
15 There was war again between the Philistines and Israel, and David went down together with his servants, and they fought against the Philistines. And David grew weary.
16 And Ishbi-benob, one of the descendants of the giants, whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of bronze, and who was armed with a new sword, thought to kill David.
17 But Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to his aid and attacked the Philistine and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You shall no longer go out with us to battle, lest you quench the lamp of Israel.”
18 And after this there was again war with the Philistines at Gob. Then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck down Saph, who was one of the descendants of the giants.
19 And there was again war with the Philistines at Gob, and Elhanan the son of Jaare-oregim, the Bethlehemite, struck down Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam.
20 And there was again war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature, who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, twenty-four in number, and he also was descended from the giants.
21 And when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimei, David’s brother, struck him down.
22 These four were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants.
The True Meaning of 2 Samuel 21
The book of 2 Samuel was written by the prophet Nathan, who was a close advisor to King David. This chapter recounts a time of famine and retribution in the kingdom of Israel, as David seeks to make amends for the sins of his predecessor, King Saul. Saul’s actions against the Gibeonites, a people whom the Israelites had sworn to protect, show the consequences in this passage. The famine that plagues the land is revealed to be a divine punishment for Saul’s breach of this covenant. David must now navigate the delicate situation, seeking to restore justice and appease the Gibeonites, while also honoring the memory of his friend, Jonathan.
The chapter also includes a recounting of several battles against the Philistines, highlighting the ongoing struggle for power and the need for strong leadership in the kingdom. Throughout, we see the hand of God at work, guiding the events and shaping the destiny of His people. We reflect on this passage, reminding us of the importance of keeping our promises, honoring our commitments, and seeking reconciliation when we have wronged others. The actions of Saul and the subsequent consequences serve as a sobering warning to all who would disregard the will of God and the rights of His people.
2 Samuel 21:1-6
The passage in 2 Samuel 21:1-6 narrates a time of famine during the reign of King David. Let’s break it down into important sections:
-
Initial Situation (Verses 1-2): The text opens with the phrase “During the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years.” This sets the scene for the ensuing events. It’s significant that the famine lasted for three years because three years of famine would have been a severe and devastating situation for the people of Israel. Famine in the Bible often symbolizes judgment or serves as a consequence for the sins of the people. The famine in this case was linked to something specific that needed to be addressed.
-
Seeking the Reason for the Famine (Verses 1-2): King David inquires of the Lord for the reason behind the famine. David, as a wise and God-fearing king, understands that such a calamity is not merely a natural disaster but rather a divine judgment or a consequence of some unresolved issue that needed attention. This action reflects David’s reliance on God and his desire to lead his people in accordance with God’s will. It sets a good example for leaders today to seek God’s guidance in times of crisis.
-
The Retribution for Saul’s House (Verses 3-6): The reason for the famine is revealed by God to be related to the bloody house of Saul and his zeal against the Gibeonites. This provides a link to past events in Israel’s history. The Gibeonites were a group of people who deceived Joshua into making a covenant of peace with them (Joshua 9). Saul, in his zeal to uphold the honor of Israel, broke this covenant with the Gibeonites by trying to exterminate them. This act violated the sacred covenant made by Joshua and brought judgment upon the land. The principle here is that breaking covenants and vows, even those made by our predecessors, can have far-reaching consequences.
-
Resolution (Verses 4-6): The Gibeonites demand retribution for the bloodshed at the hands of Saul and his house. They ask for seven of Saul’s male descendants to be handed over to them to be killed. David agrees to their demand, demonstrating a commitment to justice and honoring the violated covenant with the Gibeonites. This action shows David’s willingness to accept responsibility for the sins of his predecessor and the importance of upholding agreements and treaties, even if they were made in the past. This passage from 2 Samuel 21 emphasizes the themes of justice, accountability, and honoring commitments. It shows the interconnectedness of actions and consequences, even across generations. David’s response to the famine and the revelation of its cause provide lessons on seeking God’s guidance, acknowledging past wrongs, and taking responsibility for them. This narrative serves as a reminder that our actions have repercussions and that it is essential to repent and seek reconciliation when we or our forefathers have transgressed against others or God’s commands.
2 Samuel 21:7-9
The troubling account in 2 Samuel 21:7-9 presents how the Gibeonites were handed over seven of Saul’s descendants to be executed as retribution for King Saul’s earlier attempt to annihilate them.
Starting with verse 7, it reads, “But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the oath before the Lord between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.” This verse highlights an important covenant between David and Jonathan, Saul’s son. David had made a promise to Jonathan that he would show kindness to his descendants. Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, was spared from the judgment that befell Saul’s other descendants because of the oath that had been made before the Lord.
The promise made by David to Jonathan is recorded in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. This covenant illustrates the value of loyalty, commitment, and honoring one’s word even in the face of difficult circumstances. David’s integrity in fulfilling this promise is an example of faithfulness and integrity that is consistent with God’s character.
Continuing to verse 8, it says, “But the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of Merab the daughter of Saul, whom she bore to Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite.” Here we see the gathering of the descendants of Saul who were to be handed over to the Gibeonites. Rizpah and Merab, daughters of Saul, had borne sons who were among those selected for judgment.
Rizpah’s act of loyalty and devotion to her sons is vividly depicted in the following verses. She protected the bodies of her sons from birds of prey and wild animals, ensuring that they received a proper burial. This act of love and maternal care, despite the grim circumstances, is a poignant reminder of the lengths a mother would go for her children and the importance of honoring the deceased even in death.
Finally, in verse 9, it states, “And he gave them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they impaled them on the mountain before the Lord, and the seven of them fell together. They were put to death in the first days of harvest, at the beginning of barley harvest.” The fulfillment of the judgment is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness of making vows before God. The severity of the punishment serves as a warning about the weight of one’s actions and the repercussions they can have on future generations.
This passage prompts reflection on the themes of justice, loyalty, and the consequences of sin. It underscores the importance of honoring commitments and the gravity of making oaths or agreements, reminding us of the significance of upholding our word and the implications that may follow if we fail to do so. Throughout this account, we see the intertwining of human choices, divine justice, and the enduring consequences of actions taken in the past.
2 Samuel 21:10-14
An act of justice is carried out in the land of Israel in 2 Samuel 21:10-14, providing a poignant and solemn account. The verse reads: “Rizpah daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it out for herself on a rock. From the beginning of the harvest till the rain poured down from the heavens on the bodies, she did not let the birds touch them by day or the wild animals by night.”
Here we are introduced to Rizpah, who was the concubine of King Saul and the mother of two of his sons who were among the seven men the Gibeonites demanded be handed over for execution as retribution for Saul’s broken covenant with them. This story illustrates the concept of collective responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions affecting innocent individuals. Even though Rizpah had done no wrong, she found herself grieving and mourning the loss of her sons along with the consequences of her former master’s choices.
Rizpah’s act of spreading sackcloth on a rock and guarding the bodies of her sons from scavengers for such a prolonged period embodies themes of unwavering love, dedication, and the deep sorrow of a mother’s heart. Her vigil over the bodies of her sons demonstrates a fierce and undying love, a poignant symbol of her devotion and loyalty.
This passage underscores the importance of honoring the dead and the significance of mourning rituals in Israelite culture. Rizpah’s actions are a testament to her faithfulness, her refusal to allow her sons’ bodies to be desecrated, and her steadfast commitment to their honor.
This account also brings to mind the broader biblical theme of justice and redemption. The atonement made for the bloodguilt of Saul’s house through the execution of his descendants reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). This story serves as a reminder that sin and disobedience have consequences that can extend far beyond the individual, affecting future generations and innocents caught in the aftermath. Rizpah’s story ultimately serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of a mother’s love and the lengths to which one will go to honor the memory of their loved ones. It also serves as a sobering illustration of the weight of responsibility and the far-reaching implications of one’s actions in the sight of God.
2 Samuel 21:15-17
The Israelites, under the leadership of David, engage in a battle with the Philistines in 2 Samuel 21:15-17. The verse reads, “Once again there was a battle between the Philistines and Israel. David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted. And Ishbi-Benob, one of the descendants of Rapha, whose bronze spearhead weighed three hundred shekels and who was armed with a new sword, said he would kill David. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, ‘Never again will you go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel will not be extinguished.’”
This passage is significant in several ways. Firstly, it illustrates the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, which was a recurring struggle throughout the history of Israel. The Philistines were a formidable enemy of the Israelites, often posing a threat to their safety and sovereignty. David, as a king, had to lead his men into battle to defend their land and people.
Secondly, the mention of Ishbi-Benob, a descendant of Rapha, highlights the presence of giants in the land. The biblical account often refers to giants, such as Goliath, who was defeated by David earlier in 1 Samuel 17. These giants were seen as formidable opponents, but ultimately their size and strength were no match for the power of God working through His chosen people.
Thirdly, the intervention of Abishai, the nephew of David, in rescuing David from Ishbi-Benob’s threat, demonstrates the loyalty and bravery of David’s men. Abishai’s quick action saved David’s life and prevented a potentially disastrous outcome for the king and the nation of Israel.
Lastly, the oath taken by David’s men to prevent him from going into battle again symbolizes their recognition of David’s importance as the leader of Israel. They understood that David was not only a skilled warrior but also the chosen king appointed by God. They were safeguarding the future of Israel and ensuring that the “lamp of Israel” would not be extinguished by protecting David, a metaphor for the preservation of the nation’s existence and prosperity. This passage reminds us of the importance of leadership, loyalty, and the reliance on God’s strength in times of battle and adversity in a broader sense. It also emphasizes the idea of unity among God’s people to overcome their enemies, both physical and spiritual. David’s victories against the Philistines serve as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His chosen ones’ courage and obedience to His will, echoing similar themes found throughout the Bible, where God’s people triumph over their adversaries with His divine assistance and guidance.
2 Samuel 21:18-22
A passage in 2 Samuel 21:18-22 narrates a series of battles between Israel and the Philistines. Let’s break down this section verse by verse and delve deeper into its meaning and significance in the biblical context.
Verse 18 begins with a mention of a fierce battle at Gob between the Philistines and Israel. Sibbecai the Hushathite slays Saph, who was one of the descendants of the giants during the battle. Giants were often spoken of in the Bible as powerful and imposing figures. The defeat of Saph by Sibbecai communicates a message of triumph of God’s chosen people over seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This victory showcases the strength and faithfulness of the Israelites under God’s guidance.
Moving on to verse 19, another battle is recounted, this time in Gob as well. Elhanan, the son of Jaareoregim the Bethlehemite, strikes down another giant being in this encounter. The mention of giants in these battles serves as a reminder of the perpetual conflict between good and evil, whereby the righteous prevail with God’s help. Elhanan’s victory emphasizes the theme of divine intervention in the face of adversity.
Verse 20 takes us to yet another battle in Gath, where a formidable giant named Goliath is slain by a man named Elhanan, son of Jaareoregim. This particular verse has sparked scholarly debate, as the name of the giant contradicts the well-known account of Goliath’s defeat by David in 1 Samuel 17. Some scholars suggest that there may have been multiple individuals known as Goliath, or that there may have been a transcription error in the biblical text. Despite this ambiguity, the overall message remains consistent – the triumph of God’s people over their enemies through faith and obedience. Jonathan, the son of Shimea, who was David’s brother, slays a giant with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot in a final battle described in Gath in verses 21 and 22. This unusual detail about the giant’s physical characteristics adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. Jonathan’s victory symbolizes the courage and valor found in the lineage of King David, highlighting the idea that God equips His chosen ones to overcome all obstacles, no matter how daunting. Themes of divine intervention, courage, and the triumph of God’s people over formidable foes are conveyed in the passage in 2 Samuel 21:18-22. It underscores the importance of faith, obedience, and reliance on God’s strength in the face of adversity. These stories of battles and victories serve as enduring reminders of the power of God to deliver His people and fulfill His promises, a motif that resonates throughout the pages of the Bible.
After 2 Samuel 21
The people of Israel had suffered greatly under the rule of King Saul. His actions had brought a famine upon the land, and the people cried out for justice. The Lord heard their pleas and instructed David to make amends with the Gibeonites, whom Saul had wronged. Through this act of reconciliation, the land was healed, and the people were able to move forward. A new challenge arose as the sun set on this chapter of restoration. The Philistines, ever the thorn in Israel’s side, sought to take advantage of the nation’s weakened state. But the Lord had not abandoned his people. He would once again guide them, strengthening their resolve and sharpening their skills for the battles to come. For the Lord’s hand was upon them, and his protection would never falter.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.