So David had the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan brought from there, along with the bones of those who had been hanged. So David had the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan brought from thereDavid's actions here reflect a deep respect for Saul and Jonathan, despite Saul's previous enmity towards him. This act of retrieving their bones signifies honoring the former king and his son, who was also David's close friend. The retrieval from Jabesh-gilead, where the bodies were initially taken by the valiant men of Jabesh after Saul and Jonathan's death in battle, underscores the loyalty and bravery of these men. This act also fulfills a cultural and religious duty to ensure proper burial, which was significant in ancient Israelite society. The respect for the dead and the importance of burial are themes seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Genesis 50:25, where Joseph makes the Israelites swear to carry his bones out of Egypt. and they also gathered the bones of those who had been hanged Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe King of Israel, known for his heart after God, who seeks to honor the deceased Saul and Jonathan. 2. Saul The first King of Israel, whose reign ended in tragedy and whose remains are being honored posthumously. 3. Jonathan Saul's son and David's close friend, known for his loyalty and covenant with David. 4. The Gibeonites A group who had a covenant with Israel, whose grievances led to the exposure of the bones. 5. Jabesh-gilead The place from which David retrieved the bones of Saul and Jonathan, showing respect and closure. Teaching Points Respect for the DeadDavid's actions demonstrate the importance of honoring those who have passed, reflecting a biblical principle of respect and dignity. Covenant Loyalty David's retrieval of Jonathan's bones underscores the value of keeping promises and honoring relationships, even after death. Reconciliation and Justice The act of gathering the bones can be seen as a step towards reconciliation and justice, addressing past grievances and restoring honor. Leadership and Responsibility David's initiative in this matter shows the role of a leader in addressing unresolved issues and setting a moral example. Legacy and Remembrance The passage encourages reflection on how we remember and honor those who have gone before us, impacting our own legacy. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's action in retrieving the bones of Saul and Jonathan reflect his character and leadership qualities?2. In what ways does this passage illustrate the importance of honoring covenants and relationships, even posthumously? 3. How can we apply the principle of reconciliation and justice in our own lives, as demonstrated by David's actions? 4. What does this passage teach us about the significance of burial practices and honoring the deceased in biblical times? 5. How can we ensure that we leave a legacy that honors God and respects others, as seen in David's treatment of Saul and Jonathan's remains? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 31Describes the death of Saul and Jonathan, providing context for why their bones needed to be retrieved and honored. 2 Samuel 9 Highlights David's loyalty to Jonathan through his kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, showing David's commitment to his promises. Genesis 50 Joseph's request to have his bones carried out of Egypt parallels the honoring of the deceased and the importance of burial practices in Israelite culture.
People Abishai, Adriel, Aiah, Amorites, Armoni, Barzillai, Benjamin, David, Elhanan, Gibeon, Gibeonites, Goliath, Ishbibenob, Israelites, Jaareoregim, Jabesh, Jair, Jonathan, Kish, Mephibosheth, Merab, Michal, Rapha, Rizpah, Saph, Saul, Shimea, Shimeah, Shimei, Sibbecai, Sibbechai, ZeruiahPlaces Beth-shan, Gath, Gibeah, Gilboa, Gob, Jabesh-gilead, Jerusalem, ZelaTopics Bones, Bringeth, Death, Exposed, Gather, Gathered, Got, Hanged, Hanging, Jonathan, Killed, Saul, ThenceDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 21:12-14Library Divers Matters. I. Beth-cerem, Nehemiah 3:14. "The stones, as well of the altar, as of the ascent to the altar, were from the valley of Beth-cerem, which they digged out beneath the barren land. And thence they are wont to bring whole stones, upon which the working iron came not." The fathers of the traditions, treating concerning the blood of women's terms, reckon up five colours of it; among which that, "which is like the water of the earth, out of the valley of Beth-cerem."--Where the Gloss writes thus, "Beth-cerem … John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica The Exile Continued. Samuel Links 2 Samuel 21:13 NIV2 Samuel 21:13 NLT 2 Samuel 21:13 ESV 2 Samuel 21:13 NASB 2 Samuel 21:13 KJV 2 Samuel 21:13 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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