Rimmon is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the turbulent period following the death of King Saul, during the early reign of King David. He is primarily known as the father of Rechab and Baanah, the two men who assassinated Ish-Bosheth, the son of Saul and the king of Israel at the time. The account of Rimmon and his sons is found in 2 Samuel 4.

Biblical Account

Rimmon was a Beerothite, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. Beeroth was one of the cities of the Gibeonites, who had made a treaty with Israel during the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 9:17). The Beerothites are mentioned as having fled to Gittaim, where they lived as foreigners (2 Samuel 4:3). This historical context provides insight into the complex tribal and political dynamics of the time.

The narrative of Rimmon's sons, Rechab and Baanah, is recorded in 2 Samuel 4:5-12. Ish-Bosheth, the son of Saul, was reigning over Israel, while David was king over Judah. The kingdom was divided, and there was ongoing conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. Rechab and Baanah, seeking to gain favor with David, conspired to kill Ish-Bosheth. They entered his house during the heat of the day while he was resting and struck him dead. They then beheaded him and brought his head to David at Hebron, expecting a reward for their deed.

However, their actions were not met with approval. David, a man after God's own heart, was appalled by their treachery. He had previously dealt with the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul, and he responded similarly to Rechab and Baanah. David declared, "As surely as the LORD lives, who has delivered me out of every trouble, when someone told me, 'Look, Saul is dead,' and thought he was bringing good news, I seized him and put him to death in Ziklag. That was the reward I gave him for his news!" (2 Samuel 4:9-10). David ordered the execution of Rechab and Baanah, and their hands and feet were cut off as a public display of justice. Ish-Bosheth's head was buried in Abner's tomb at Hebron.

Theological and Moral Implications

The account of Rimmon and his sons highlights several key themes in the biblical narrative. First, it underscores the sanctity of God's anointed leaders. Despite the political turmoil and the opportunity to consolidate power, David consistently respected the anointed status of Saul and his descendants. This respect for God's chosen leaders is a recurring theme in David's life and serves as a model of integrity and reverence for divine authority.

Second, the account illustrates the consequences of treachery and murder. Rechab and Baanah's actions, motivated by ambition and a desire for reward, ultimately led to their downfall. Their account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking personal gain through unrighteous means.

Lastly, the narrative reflects the broader theme of divine justice. David's response to the murder of Ish-Bosheth demonstrates his commitment to justice and righteousness, aligning with God's standards rather than human expediency. This commitment to justice is a hallmark of David's reign and foreshadows the messianic kingdom, where justice and righteousness will prevail.

Cultural and Historical Context

Understanding the cultural and historical context of Rimmon and his sons provides deeper insight into the narrative. The tribal affiliations and political alliances of the time were complex and often fraught with tension. The Beerothites, as part of the tribe of Benjamin, had historical ties to Saul's family, yet the actions of Rechab and Baanah reveal the fractured nature of these relationships.

The city of Beeroth, associated with the Gibeonites, adds another layer of complexity. The Gibeonites had a unique status within Israel due to their covenant with Joshua, and their presence in the narrative highlights the diverse and multifaceted nature of Israelite society during this period.

In summary, Rimmon's legacy is primarily defined by the actions of his sons, Rechab and Baanah, whose account is a vivid illustration of the moral and theological principles that underpin the biblical narrative.2 Samuel 4:2,5,9
And Saul's son had two men that were captains of bands: the name of the one was Baanah, and the name of the other Rechab, the sons of Rimmon a Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin: (for Beeroth also was reckoned to Benjamin.
Nave's Topical Index

What is the story of David and Ish-Bosheth? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Naaman in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who were Rechab and Baanah? | GotQuestions.org

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