Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version David asked the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How shall I make atonement so that you will bless the LORD’s inheritance?” New Living Translation David asked them, “What can I do for you? How can I make amends so that you will bless the LORD’s people again?” English Standard Version 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?” Berean Standard Bible So David asked the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” Berean Literal Bible And David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you⁺, and with what shall I make atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of YHWH?” King James Bible Wherefore David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD? New King James Version Therefore David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? And with what shall I make atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” New American Standard Bible David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? And how can I make amends, so that you will bless the inheritance of the LORD?” NASB 1995 Thus David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? And how can I make atonement that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” NASB 1977 Thus David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? And how can I make atonement that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” Legacy Standard Bible Thus David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? And how can I make atonement that you may bless the inheritance of Yahweh?” Amplified Bible So David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? How can I make it good so that you will bless the LORD’S inheritance (Israel)?” Berean Annotated Bible So David (beloved) asked the Gibeonites (little hill), “What shall I do for you⁺? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD {YHWH}? Christian Standard Bible He asked the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? How can I make atonement so that you will bring a blessing on the LORD’s inheritance? ” Holman Christian Standard Bible He asked the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? How can I make atonement so that you will bring a blessing on the LORD’s inheritance?” American Standard Version and David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of Jehovah? Contemporary English Version He said, "What can I do to make up for what Saul did, so that you'll ask the LORD to be kind to his people again?" English Revised Version and David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD? GOD'S WORD® Translation and asked them, "What can I do for you? What should I [give you] to make peace with you so that you will bless what belongs to the LORD?" Good News Translation So David summoned the people of Gibeon and said to them, "What can I do for you? I want to make up for the wrong that was done to you, so that you will bless the LORD's people." International Standard Version So David asked the Gibeonites, "What am I to do for you? How am I to make atonement so that you will bless the LORD's heritage?" NET Bible David said to the Gibeonites, "What can I do for you, and how can I make amends so that you will bless the LORD's inheritance?" New Heart English Bible And David said to the Gibeonites, "What can I do for you? And how can I make atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?" Webster's Bible Translation Wherefore David said to the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and with what shall I make the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD? Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSo David asked the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” World English Bible and David said to the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? And with what should I make atonement, that you may bless Yahweh’s inheritance?” Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionindeed, David says to the Gibeonites, “What do I do for you? And with what do I make atonement? And bless the inheritance of YHWH.” Berean Literal Bible And David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you⁺, and with what shall I make atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of YHWH?” Young's Literal Translation yea, David saith unto the Gibeonites, 'What do I do for you? and with what do I make atonement? and bless ye the inheritance of Jehovah.' Smith's Literal Translation And David will say to the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and with what shall I expiate and bless ye the inheritance of Jehovah? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleDavid therefore said to the Gabaonites: What shall I do for you? and what shall be the atonement for you, that you may bless the inheritance of the Lord? Catholic Public Domain Version Therefore, David said to the Gibeonites: “What shall I do for you? And what shall be your satisfaction, so that you may bless the inheritance of the Lord?” New American Bible David said to the Gibeonites, “What must I do for you and how must I make atonement, that you may bless the heritage of the LORD?” New Revised Standard Version David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How shall I make expiation, that you may bless the heritage of the LORD?” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleWherefore David said to the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? And with what shall I make an atonement to you, that you may bless the heritage of the LORD? Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And David said to the Gebunites: “What shall I do for you and in what shall I make atonement for you?” And they blessed the inheritance of LORD JEHOVAH OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917and David said unto the Gibeonites: 'What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD?' Brenton Septuagint Translation And David said to the Gabaonites, What shall I do to you? and wherewithal shall I make atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the Lord? Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context David Avenges the Gibeonites…2At this, David summoned the Gibeonites and spoke to them. (Now the Gibeonites were not Israelites, but a remnant of the Amorites. The Israelites had taken an oath concerning them, but in his zeal for Israel and Judah, Saul had sought to kill them.) 3So David asked the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” 4The Gibeonites said to him, “We need no silver or gold from Saul or his house, nor should you put to death anyone in Israel for us.” “Whatever you ask, I will do for you,” he replied.… Cross References So David asked the Gibeonites Joshua 9:15-21 And Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the congregation swore an oath to them. / Three days after they had made the treaty with the Gibeonites, the Israelites learned that they were neighbors, living among them. / So the Israelites set out and on the third day arrived at their cities—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim. … Joshua 10:6-7 Then the men of Gibeon sent word to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal: “Do not abandon your servants. Come quickly and save us! Help us, because all the kings of the Amorites from the hill country have joined forces against us.” / So Joshua and his whole army, including all the mighty men of valor, came from Gilgal. Joshua 9:24-27 The Gibeonites answered, “Your servants were told clearly that the LORD your God had commanded His servant Moses to give you all the land and wipe out all its inhabitants before you. So we greatly feared for our lives because of you, and that is why we have done this. / Now we are in your hands. Do to us whatever seems good and right to you.” / So Joshua did this and delivered them from the hands of the Israelites, and they did not kill the Gibeonites. … “What shall I do for you? 2 Kings 4:2 “How can I help you?” asked Elisha. “Tell me, what do you have in the house?” She answered, “Your servant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.” 2 Kings 2:9 After they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken away from you?” “Please, let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied. 1 Kings 3:5 One night at Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “Ask, and I will give it to you!” How can I make amends Numbers 5:7 and must confess the sin he has committed. He must make full restitution, add a fifth to its value, and give all this to the one he has wronged. Leviticus 6:5 or anything else about which he has sworn falsely. He must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value, and pay it to the owner on the day he acknowledges his guilt. Exodus 22:3 But if it happens after sunrise, there is guilt for his bloodshed. A thief must make full restitution; if he has nothing, he himself shall be sold for his theft. so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” Psalm 28:9 Save Your people and bless Your inheritance; shepherd them and carry them forever. Deuteronomy 9:29 But they are Your people, Your inheritance, whom You brought out by Your great power and outstretched arm.” Deuteronomy 32:9 But the LORD’s portion is His people, Jacob His allotted inheritance. 2 Samuel 9:1-7 Then David asked, “Is there anyone left from the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for the sake of Jonathan?” / And there was a servant of the house of Saul named Ziba. They summoned him to David, and the king inquired, “Are you Ziba?” “I am your servant,” he replied. / So the king asked, “Is there anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I can show the kindness of God?” Ziba answered, “There is still Jonathan’s son, who is lame in both feet.” … 1 Samuel 20:14-17 And as long as I live, treat me with the LORD’s loving devotion, that I may not die, / and do not ever cut off your loving devotion from my household—not even when the LORD cuts off every one of David’s enemies from the face of the earth.” / So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, “May the LORD hold David’s enemies accountable.” … 1 Samuel 24:21-22 So now, swear to me by the LORD that you will not cut off my descendants or wipe out my name from my father’s house.” / So David gave his oath to Saul. Then Saul returned home, but David and his men went up to the stronghold. 1 Kings 2:7 But show loving devotion to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be among those who eat at your table, because they stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom. Treasury of Scripture Why David said to the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and with which shall I make the atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD? wherewith Exodus 32:30 And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto the LORD; peradventure I shall make an atonement for your sin. Leviticus 1:4 And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him. 1 Samuel 2:25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them. bless 2 Samuel 20:19 I am one of them that are peaceable and faithful in Israel: thou seekest to destroy a city and a mother in Israel: why wilt thou swallow up the inheritance of the LORD? Jump to Previous Amends Atonement Bless Blessing David Expiation Gibeonites Gib'eonites Heritage Inheritance Lord's Wherefore Wherewith WrongsJump to Next Amends Atonement Bless Blessing David Expiation Gibeonites Gib'eonites Heritage Inheritance Lord's Wherefore Wherewith Wrongs2 Samuel 21 1. The three year Gibeonite famine ceases, by hanging seven of Saul's sons.10. Rizpah's kindness unto the dead 12. David buries the bones of Saul and Jonathan in his father's tomb 15. Four battles against the Philistines, wherein four men of David slay four giants. So David asked the Gibeonites, David's inquiry to the Gibeonites reflects his role as a mediator and leader seeking to resolve a national crisis. The Gibeonites were a group of people who had made a covenant with Israel during the time of Joshua (Joshua 9:3-15). Despite their deceptive means to secure this covenant, it was binding, and Saul's violation of it by attempting to annihilate them brought a famine upon Israel. David's approach to the Gibeonites shows his commitment to justice and the importance of honoring covenants, even those made under false pretenses. “What shall I do for you? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?” Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe King of Israel, seeking to make amends for Saul's actions against the Gibeonites. 2. Gibeonites A non-Israelite group who had a treaty with Israel, violated by Saul, leading to a famine as divine retribution. 3. Saul The former King of Israel, whose actions against the Gibeonites caused a breach of covenant and subsequent famine. 4. Inheritance of the LORD Refers to the people of Israel, whom David desires to see blessed and free from the famine. Teaching Points The Importance of Keeping CovenantsDavid's actions highlight the importance of honoring agreements, even those made by previous generations. This teaches us the value of integrity and faithfulness in our commitments. Seeking Reconciliation David's approach to the Gibeonites demonstrates the importance of seeking reconciliation and making amends for past wrongs. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to seek forgiveness and restoration in our relationships. Atonement and Blessing The concept of atonement is central to this passage, as David seeks to restore God's blessing on Israel. This points to the greater atonement made by Christ, which brings ultimate reconciliation and blessing. Leadership and Responsibility David's leadership is marked by his willingness to address past injustices and take responsibility for the nation's welfare. This serves as a model for Christian leaders to act justly and seek the good of those they lead. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 21:3?2. How does 2 Samuel 21:3 demonstrate David's commitment to justice and righteousness? 3. What does David's inquiry in 2 Samuel 21:3 teach about seeking God's guidance? 4. How can we apply David's approach to resolving conflicts in our lives? 5. What scriptural connections exist between 2 Samuel 21:3 and Matthew 5:9 on peacemaking? 6. How does David's leadership in 2 Samuel 21:3 reflect Christ's role as mediator? 7. Why did David seek to make amends with the Gibeonites in 2 Samuel 21:3? 8. How does 2 Samuel 21:3 reflect on the importance of atonement in biblical times? 9. What does 2 Samuel 21:3 reveal about God's justice and mercy? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 21? 11. Why was there a famine during David's reign? 12. How can David's earlier triumphs over the Philistines, such as in 1 Samuel 17, be reconciled with Achish's acceptance of him in 1 Samuel 29? 13. In 2 Samuel 21:1, how can a just God hold an entire nation accountable with famine for Saul’s sin? 14. What is Gibeon's significance in the Bible? What Does 2 Samuel 21:3 Mean So David asked the Gibeonites• David, as king, takes responsibility for a national calamity—a three-year famine (2 Samuel 21:1). • By turning to the Gibeonites, whom Saul had wronged, David models leadership that seeks justice rather than hiding past sins (Proverbs 28:13; James 5:16). • He recognizes the covenant Joshua once made with these people (Joshua 9:15). Though centuries old, covenant faithfulness still matters (Numbers 30:2). • The scene reminds us that unconfessed national sin can bring ongoing consequences until properly addressed (Deuteronomy 29:24-28; 2 Chronicles 7:14). “What shall I do for you?” • David invites the offended party to articulate the path to restitution—a humble approach that mirrors God’s call for repentance to include concrete action (Lu 19:8-9). • This question shows David’s willingness to bear cost for reconciliation, anticipating the ultimate King who would bear our cost entirely (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). • It underscores that true justice is not self-defined; it seeks the input of those wronged (Micah 6:8). How can I make amends • “Make amends” signals restoration, not mere apology (Leviticus 6:4-5). • David assumes moral debt rests on Israel, not the Gibeonites—a picture of owning guilt without excuses (Psalm 51:3-4). • The notion of reparations here honors God’s law of compensation for bloodshed (Numbers 35:33-34). • Reconciliation with people is inseparable from fellowship with God (Matthew 5:23-24; 1 John 4:20-21). so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD? • “Inheritance of the LORD” refers to Israel, God’s covenant people (Deuteronomy 4:20; 1 Peter 2:9). • David understands that Israel cannot expect divine favor while harboring unresolved injustice (Psalm 24:3-6). • The blessing sought is not merely material harvest but restored covenant relationship (Leviticus 26:3-13). • When enemies forgive and bless, it testifies to God’s righteousness among the nations (Proverbs 16:7; Isaiah 60:3). summary 2 Samuel 21:3 portrays a righteous king confronting inherited guilt. David’s questions reveal humility, accountability, and a longing for covenant blessing. By seeking the Gibeonites’ terms, he honors past promises, pursues tangible restitution, and aims for restored favor on God’s people. The verse teaches that genuine repentance engages the injured party, makes concrete amends, and values God’s blessing above personal convenience—principles vital for both individuals and nations today. (3) Make the atonement.--This is the same technical word as is used throughout the Law in connection with the propitiatory sacrifices. It means literally, to cover up, and is here used in that literal sense. David asks what he can do to so cover up the sin of Saul as to remove it from the sight of those against whom it had been committed--the Gibeonites as the earthly sufferers from it, and God Himself as the one against whom he had chiefly offended. Then might God's blessing again return to His people.Verse 3. - Wherewith shall I make the atonement, etc.? Literally the verb means to "cover up," the idea being that of a veil drawn over the offence to conceal it by means of a gift or offering. Thence gradually it attained to its religious idea of an expiation.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew So Davidדָּוִד֙ (dā·wiḏ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 1732: David -- perhaps 'beloved one', a son of Jesse asked וַיֹּ֤אמֶר (way·yō·mer) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 559: To utter, say the Gibeonites, הַגִּבְעֹנִ֔ים (hag·giḇ·‘ō·nîm) Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural Strong's 1393: Gibeonites -- inhabitants of Gibeon “What מָ֥ה (māh) Interrogative Strong's 4100: What?, what!, indefinitely what shall I do אֶעֱשֶׂ֖ה (’e·‘ĕ·śeh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular Strong's 6213: To do, make for you? לָכֶ֑ם (lā·ḵem) Preposition | second person masculine plural Strong's Hebrew How וּבַמָּ֣ה (ū·ḇam·māh) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Interrogative Strong's 4100: What?, what!, indefinitely what can I make amends אֲכַפֵּ֔ר (’ă·ḵap·pêr) Verb - Piel - Imperfect - first person common singular Strong's 3722: To cover, to expiate, condone, to placate, cancel so that you may bless וּבָרְכ֖וּ (ū·ḇā·rə·ḵū) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Imperative - masculine plural Strong's 1288: To kneel, to bless God, man, to curse the inheritance נַחֲלַ֥ת (na·ḥă·laṯ) Noun - feminine singular construct Strong's 5159: Something inherited, occupancy, an heirloom, an estate, patrimony, portion of the LORD?” יְהוָֽה׃ (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel Links 2 Samuel 21:3 NIV2 Samuel 21:3 NLT 2 Samuel 21:3 ESV 2 Samuel 21:3 NASB 2 Samuel 21:3 KJV 2 Samuel 21:3 BibleApps.com 2 Samuel 21:3 Biblia Paralela 2 Samuel 21:3 Chinese Bible 2 Samuel 21:3 French Bible 2 Samuel 21:3 Catholic Bible OT History: 2 Samuel 21:3 And David said to the Gibeonites What (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) |
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