David Avenges the Gibeonites 1During the reign of David there was a famine for three successive years, and David sought the face of the LORD. And the LORD said, “It is because of the blood shed by Saul and his family, because he killed 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. 5And they answered the king, “As for the man who consumed us and plotted against us to exterminate us from existing within any border of Israel, 6let seven of his male descendants be delivered to us so that we may hang thema before the LORD at Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of the LORD.” “I will give them to you,” said the king. 7Now the king spared Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the oath before the LORD between David and Jonathan son of Saul. 8But the king took Armoni and Mephibosheth, the two sons whom Rizpah daughter of Aiah had borne to Saul, as well as the five sons whom Merabb daughter of Saul had borne to Adriel son of Barzillai the Meholathite. 9And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them on the hill before the LORD. So all seven of them fell together; they were put to death in the first days of the harvest, at the beginning of the barley harvest. 10And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it out for herself on a rock. From the beginning of the harvest until the rain from heaven poured down on the bodies, she did not allow the birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night. 11When David was told what Saul’s concubine Rizpah, daughter of Aiah, had done, 12he went and took the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan from the men of Jabesh-gilead, who had stolen them from the public square of Beth-shan where the Philistines had hung the bodies after they had struck down Saul at Gilboa. 13So David had the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan brought from there, and they also gathered the bones of those who had been hanged. 14And they buried the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan in Zela in the land of Benjamin, in the tomb of Saul’s father Kish. After they had done everything the king had commanded, God answered their prayers for the land. Four Battles against the Philistines 15Once again the Philistines waged war against Israel, and David and his servants went down and fought against the Philistines. But David became exhausted. 16Then Ishbi-benob, a descendant of Rapha,c whose bronze spear weighed three hundred shekelsd and who was bearing a new sword, resolved to kill David. 17But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, “You must never again go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel may not be extinguished.” 18Some time later at Gob, there was another battle with the Philistines. At that time Sibbecai the Hushathite killed Saph,e a descendant of Rapha. 19Once again there was a battle with the Philistines at Gob, and Elhanan son of Jairf the Bethlehemite killed the brother of Goliathg the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. 20And there was also a battle at Gath, where there was a man of great stature with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot—twenty-four in all. He too was descended from Rapha, 21and when he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of David’s brother Shimeih killed him. 22So these four descendants of Rapha in Gath fell at the hands of David and his servants. Footnotes: 6 a Or expose them or execute them; similarly in verse 9 8 b Two Hebrew manuscripts, some LXX manuscripts, and Syriac (see also 1 Samuel 18:19); most Hebrew and LXX manuscripts Michal 16 c Or the giant; also in verses 18, 20, and 22 16 d 300 shekels is approximately 7.5 pounds or 3.4 kilograms. 18 e Saph is a variant of Sippai; see 1 Chronicles 20:4. 19 f See 1 Chronicles 20:5; Hebrew Jaare-oregim 19 g See 1 Chronicles 20:5; Hebrew does not include the brother of. 21 h Shimei is a variant of Shammah, Shimeah, and Shimea; see 1 Samuel 16:9, 2 Samuel 13:3, and 1 Chronicles 2:13. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  2 Samuel 21 Summary David Avenges the GibeonitesVerses 1–3 – The Famine and David’s Inquiry Verses 4–9 – Justice for the Gibeonites Verses 10–14 – Rizpah’s Vigil and Proper Burial Verses 15–17 – Ishbi-benob’s Threat and Abishai’s Rescue Verses 18–22 – Four Philistine Giants Fall 2 Samuel 21 reveals complex narratives of justice, retribution, deliverance, and valor. This chapter's accounts intertwine King David's actions to end a devastating famine and his warriors' victories over the Philistine giants. It highlights the theme of reparation for broken promises and the important lesson of loyalty to the covenant. Historical Setting and Covenant Background • Joshua 9 recounts how Israel swore an oath to spare the Gibeonites. Breaking such an oath violated both the command to keep vows (Numbers 30:2) and the basic principle that “the one who swears to his own hurt and does not change” is honored by God (Psalm 15:4). • Saul’s zeal to consolidate the kingdom likely fueled his attack (cf. 1 Samuel 14:52), yet it breached covenant faithfulness, leaving bloodguilt on the nation (Deuteronomy 19:10). The Three-Year Famine 1. Repeated famine signals covenant discipline (Leviticus 26:19-20; Deuteronomy 28:23-24). 2. David rightly discerns a moral cause, goes “to seek the face of the LORD” (21:1), and waits for God’s answer. 3. God’s revelation shows that national sin sometimes predates the present generation; justice delayed is still required. Bloodguilt and Atonement • Genesis 9:6 establishes the principle: “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed.” • Numbers 35:33 warns that unatoned blood “pollutes the land.” The deaths of Saul’s descendants satisfy legal justice, though emotionally painful. • No ransom (“silver or gold,” v. 4) could substitute; only life for life (compare Hebrews 9:22: “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness”). Who Were the Gibeonites? • Hivite peoples dwelling in four towns (Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim). • Archaeological surveys at el-Jib (ancient Gibeon) reveal massive water systems dated to Iron Age II, confirming a strategic location. • While outside Israel’s tribal structure, they served as woodcutters and water carriers for the sanctuary (Joshua 9:27), integrating into Israel’s economy and worship life. Saul’s Offense and Its Fallout • The text never details Saul’s massacre, but 2 Samuel 21:2 links it to his “zeal for Israel and Judah,” perhaps during his war with the Philistines. • The five grandsons handed over are sons of Merab (not Michal; see textual note comparing 1 Samuel 18:19 in some manuscripts). This underlines how sin’s reach spans generations (Exodus 34:7), though each bears individual guilt before God (Ezekiel 18:20). Rizpah: A Mother’s Devotion • Her vigil likely lasted from Passover (early spring) until the early rains (autumn), roughly six months. • She models steadfast love, foreshadowing Mary’s presence at Jesus’ crucifixion (John 19:25). • David’s response shows that compassion can accompany justice, emphasizing dignity in death. Burial Customs in Ancient Israel • Collective family tombs (like Kish’s) were cut into rock. Bones were gathered into ossuaries after flesh decayed, an act called “being gathered to one’s fathers.” • Proper burial signified honor and covenant belonging (Genesis 50:25; 1 Kings 13:22). Through David’s action, Saul’s house receives closure, and the land receives relief. David’s Growing Weakness and Leadership Transition • Verse 17 marks a turning point: David must rely on younger warriors. 1 Kings 1-2 will soon narrate his final days and Solomon’s rise. • “Lamp of Israel” becomes a royal title, later applied to the Messiah (Psalm 132:17; John 8:12). The Philistine Giants and Their Weapons • Ishbi-benob’s spearhead weighs “three hundred shekels of bronze” (about 7.5 pounds/3.4 kg), echoing Goliath’s heavier iron spear (1 Samuel 17:7). • Six-fingered giant: polydactyly appears in ancient iconography from Philistine sites, lending realism. • 1 Chronicles 20:4-8 parallels the list, affirming multiple battles and heroes. Archaeology of Gath and Philistine Warfare • Tell es-Safi (Gath) excavations reveal fortifications and evidence of large, well-armed warriors—elite corps known from Egyptian reliefs. • Philistine ironwork was advanced; spear shafts and swords found in the coastal plain match biblical descriptions. • Discovery of a pottery shard inscribed “’LWT” (possibly “Goliath”) from the 10th century BC strengthens the link between text and material culture. Foreshadowing of the Greater King • The famine ends only after justice, burial, and intercession—a pattern fulfilled in Christ, who satisfies divine justice, conquers death, and intercedes for the land (Romans 5:9-11). • Giants falling before David’s men prefigure the final defeat of evil forces under the Son of David (Revelation 19:11-21). These events invite readers to honor promises, seek God in national crisis, show mercy amid judgment, and trust the One who ultimately lifts every curse. Connections to Additional Scriptures Joshua 9:14-15The original covenant with the Gibeonites, highlighting the importance of honoring agreements. Proverbs 21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice, emphasizing the value of justice. Matthew 5:23-24 Jesus' teaching on reconciliation, underscoring the importance of resolving conflicts. Teaching Points The Famine and InquiryDuring the reign of David, there was a famine for three successive years, and David sought the face of the LORD (2 Samuel 21:1). This teaches us the importance of seeking God's guidance in times of trouble. The Cause of the Famine The LORD reveals that the famine is due to Saul's breach of covenant with the Gibeonites, highlighting the seriousness of breaking oaths and the need for justice (2 Samuel 21:1-2). David's Response David seeks to make amends with the Gibeonites, demonstrating the importance of taking responsibility for past wrongs (2 Samuel 21:3-6). The Execution of Justice The Gibeonites request the execution of seven of Saul's descendants, which David grants, except for Mephibosheth, due to his covenant with Jonathan (2 Samuel 21:7-9). Rizpah's Vigil Rizpah's act of mourning and protection over the bodies of her sons underscores the depth of a mother's love and the need for dignity in death (2 Samuel 21:10-11). Resolution and God's Favor After David ensures the proper burial of Saul and Jonathan, God responds to the prayers for the land, ending the famine (2 Samuel 21:12-14). Practical Applications Seek God's GuidanceIn times of crisis, prioritize seeking God's wisdom and understanding the root causes of our challenges. Honor Covenants Recognize the importance of keeping promises and the potential consequences of breaking them. Pursue Justice and Reconciliation Be proactive in addressing past wrongs and seeking reconciliation, even when it is difficult. Value Human Dignity Show respect and compassion for all individuals, recognizing their inherent worth and dignity. Trust in God's Timing Understand that God's resolution to our problems may require patience and faithfulness. People 1. DavidThe King of Israel who seeks to resolve a famine in the land by addressing the bloodguilt on Saul's house. He is a central figure in this chapter, making decisions to appease the Gibeonites and later honoring the remains of Saul and Jonathan. 2. Saul The former King of Israel, whose actions against the Gibeonites bring a famine upon the land. Although deceased, his legacy and past actions significantly impact the events of this chapter. 3. The Gibeonites A group not originally from Israel but who had a covenant with Israel. They demand justice for Saul's attempt to annihilate them, which leads to the execution of seven of Saul's descendants. 4. Rizpah, daughter of Aiah A concubine of Saul, who mourns and protects the bodies of her sons after they are executed by the Gibeonites. Her actions prompt David to give Saul and Jonathan a proper burial. 5. Jonathan, son of Saul Although not directly involved in the events of this chapter, his remains are honored by David, who retrieves them for a proper burial alongside Saul. 6. Armoni and Mephibosheth Sons of Rizpah and Saul, who are handed over to the Gibeonites and executed as part of the atonement for Saul's actions. 7. Merab, daughter of Saul Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, her sons are among those given to the Gibeonites. This reflects the broader impact of Saul's actions on his family. 8. The Philistine Giants The chapter concludes with battles against the Philistines, where several giants are mentioned, including descendants of Rapha, who are defeated by David's men. Places 1. GibeonGibeon is mentioned in the context of the famine during the reign of David, which was attributed to Saul's actions against the Gibeonites. The Gibeonites were not Israelites but were spared by a covenant made with Joshua (Joshua 9). The Hebrew root for Gibeon is "גִּבְעוֹן" (Giv'on). 2. Gibeah of Saul This is the location where the seven descendants of Saul were hanged as a form of retribution to atone for Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites. Gibeah, meaning "hill" in Hebrew, was Saul's hometown and is referred to as "גִּבְעָה" (Giv'ah). 3. Aijalon Aijalon is mentioned in the context of the battles against the Philistines. It is a valley that served as a strategic location in various military campaigns. The Hebrew root is "אַיָּלוֹן" (Ayalon), meaning "place of deer." 4. Gob Gob is noted as the site of battles between the Israelites and the Philistines. It is mentioned in the context of the exploits of David's warriors. The exact location of Gob is uncertain, and it is sometimes identified with Gezer or Gath. 5. Gath Gath is one of the five Philistine cities and is mentioned in relation to the giants who were descendants of the Rephaim. The Hebrew root is "גַּת" (Gat), meaning "winepress." Events 1. Famine in IsraelA famine occurs during the reign of King David, lasting for three consecutive years. David seeks the LORD's guidance to understand the cause of the famine. The LORD reveals that it is due to Saul's bloodguilt for killing the Gibeonites, breaking Israel's oath to them (2 Samuel 21:1). 2. David Consults the Gibeonites David approaches the Gibeonites to make amends. The Gibeonites are not Israelites but a remnant of the Amorites, and they had been wronged by Saul. David asks them what he can do to make atonement so that they may bless the LORD’s inheritance (2 Samuel 21:2-3). 3. Gibeonites' Request The Gibeonites refuse any silver or gold from Saul's house and do not wish to put any man to death in Israel. Instead, they request that seven of Saul's male descendants be handed over to them to be executed, as a form of retribution for Saul's actions against them (2 Samuel 21:4-6). 4. David's Decision David agrees to the Gibeonites' request but spares Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, because of the oath between David and Jonathan. Instead, he selects two sons of Rizpah, Saul's concubine, and five sons of Merab, Saul's daughter, to be handed over (2 Samuel 21:7-9). 5. Execution of Saul's Descendants The seven descendants are handed over to the Gibeonites, who execute them on a hill before the LORD at the beginning of the barley harvest. This act is seen as a form of divine justice and atonement for Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites (2 Samuel 21:9). 6. Rizpah's Mourning Rizpah, the mother of two of the executed men, mourns by spreading sackcloth on a rock and keeping vigil over the bodies from the beginning of the harvest until rain falls from the heavens, preventing birds and wild animals from desecrating them (2 Samuel 21:10). 7. David's Response to Rizpah Upon hearing of Rizpah's actions, David retrieves the bones of Saul and Jonathan from Jabesh-gilead, where they had been taken after their deaths, and gathers the bones of the executed men (2 Samuel 21:11-13). 8. Proper Burial David ensures that the bones of Saul, Jonathan, and the seven executed descendants are buried in the tomb of Kish, Saul's father, in the land of Benjamin. This act of respect and proper burial is seen as fulfilling the requirements of justice and honor (2 Samuel 21:14). 9. Divine Response After these events, God responds to the plea for the land, and the famine is lifted, indicating that the LORD is appeased by the actions taken to rectify Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites (2 Samuel 21:14). Topics 1. Famine and Inquiry of the LORD (2 Samuel 21:1)A famine lasting three years prompts David to seek the LORD's guidance. The LORD reveals that the famine is due to Saul's actions against the Gibeonites, highlighting the importance of covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew root for "inquired" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) emphasizes seeking divine guidance. 2. David and the Gibeonites (2 Samuel 21:2-6) David consults the Gibeonites to make amends for Saul's breach of Israel's oath. The Gibeonites request the execution of seven of Saul's descendants, underscoring the principle of justice and reparation. The Hebrew term for "atonement" (כָּפַר, kaphar) is significant in understanding the need for reconciliation. 3. Execution of Saul’s Descendants (2 Samuel 21:7-9) David spares Mephibosheth due to his covenant with Jonathan but hands over seven others to the Gibeonites, who execute them. This act fulfills the demand for justice, reflecting the seriousness of covenant violations. 4. Rizpah’s Vigil (2 Samuel 21:10-14) Rizpah, the mother of two of the executed men, protects their bodies from scavengers. Her devotion prompts David to retrieve and properly bury the bones of Saul and Jonathan, as well as those of the executed, demonstrating respect for the dead and the importance of proper burial rites. 5. Battles Against the Philistines (2 Samuel 21:15-22) The chapter concludes with accounts of battles against the Philistines, where David and his men defeat giants. These victories highlight God's continued support for Israel and the fulfillment of His promises. The term "giant" (רָפָה, rapha) connects to the Rephaim, emphasizing the formidable nature of these foes. Each topic reflects key theological themes such as covenant faithfulness, justice, and divine intervention, which are central to a conservative Christian understanding of the text. Themes 1. Divine Justice and RetributionIn 2 Samuel 21, the theme of divine justice is evident as God addresses the bloodguilt on Saul's house due to his actions against the Gibeonites. The famine in the land is a direct consequence of Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites, highlighting the biblical principle that God holds individuals and nations accountable for their actions. The Hebrew word for "atonement" (כָּפַר, kaphar) in verse 3 underscores the need for reconciliation and justice. 2. Covenant Faithfulness The chapter emphasizes the importance of honoring covenants, as seen in David's efforts to make amends with the Gibeonites. Saul's violation of the covenant with the Gibeonites led to severe consequences, illustrating the biblical theme that God expects His people to be faithful to their promises. The Hebrew term for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a binding agreement that must be respected. 3. The Role of Intercession David's intercession on behalf of Israel to end the famine demonstrates the power and necessity of intercessory prayer. By seeking God's guidance and taking action to rectify Saul's wrongs, David acts as a mediator between God and the people, reflecting the biblical theme of intercession as a means to restore divine favor. 4. The Consequences of Sin The narrative illustrates the far-reaching consequences of sin, as Saul's actions result in a national crisis. The chapter serves as a reminder that sin can have lasting effects not only on the individual but also on the community, emphasizing the need for repentance and restitution. 5. The Sovereignty of God God's control over the events in 2 Samuel 21 highlights His sovereignty. The famine and its resolution are under God's authority, demonstrating that He orchestrates circumstances to fulfill His purposes and bring about justice. The Hebrew word for "Lord" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) used throughout the chapter underscores His supreme authority. 6. The Importance of Atonement The chapter underscores the necessity of atonement to restore the relationship between God and His people. The execution of Saul's descendants, though difficult, serves as a form of atonement to lift the curse from the land, reflecting the biblical theme that atonement is essential for reconciliation with God. 7. The Legacy of Leadership The actions of Saul and David in this chapter highlight the impact of leadership on a nation. Saul's failure to uphold the covenant leads to suffering, while David's efforts to rectify the situation demonstrate responsible leadership. This theme underscores the biblical principle that leaders are accountable to God and their people. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 2 Samuel 21:1, how can a just God hold an entire nation accountable with famine for Saul’s sin? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the narrative of 2 Samuel 21 demonstrate the consequences of breaking covenants? 2. What does the treatment of the Gibeonites teach us about justice and atonement? 3. How did Rizpah's actions influence David's decision to bury the bones of Saul and his sons? What can we learn from Rizpah's act of love and defiance? 4. Explore the theme of loyalty in the chapter. How is it depicted and why is it significant? 5. Why was it important that the seven descendants of Saul were buried in the land of Benjamin? 6. How did David show respect towards his promise to Jonathan even when seeking atonement for Saul's sins? 7. How does the theme of retribution play out in the chapter? Do you agree with the form of retribution carried out? 8. Discuss the importance of David’s mighty warriors and their role in the narrative. How did their actions influence David's reign? 9. In modern times, how might we handle a situation like the famine and its proposed cause? How does this compare to David's response? 10. What does this chapter teach about leadership, both in the actions of Saul and David? 11. If you were in David's place, how would you have addressed the famine and its cause? 12. How do we see the intersection of faith, leadership, and warfare in this chapter? 13. In what ways does the story of David and his warriors encourage you to act in your current situation? 14. How can we apply the principle of honoring our promises in our lives today, as demonstrated by David's respect for his oath with Jonathan? 15. What role does courage play in this chapter, and how can it inspire us in our daily lives? 16. How does Rizpah's act of protecting her sons' bodies reflect on our responsibilities towards our loved ones? 17. In contemporary society, what equivalent actions might we undertake to seek justice, like the Gibeonites did? 18. How does the story of David's warriors defeating the Philistine giants inspire you to face your "giants" in life? 19. What does this chapter teach about the implications of past actions on present circumstances? 20. How does the narrative encourage us to face challenges and adversity, whether in personal life, work, or spiritual battles? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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