Topical Encyclopedia Rizpah, a significant yet often overlooked figure in the Old Testament, was a concubine of King Saul, the first king of Israel. Her account is primarily found in 2 Samuel 3:7 and 2 Samuel 21:8-14. Rizpah was the daughter of Aiah, and her life is marked by tragedy, loyalty, and a poignant demonstration of maternal devotion.Concubine of Saul Rizpah's role as a concubine to Saul places her within the royal household, though her status was secondary to that of a wife. Concubines in ancient Israel held a recognized position, often bearing children and contributing to the household's lineage. Rizpah bore Saul two sons, Armoni and Mephibosheth (not to be confused with Jonathan's son of the same name). Political Intrigue and Tragedy Rizpah's life took a dramatic turn following Saul's death. In 2 Samuel 3:7, she becomes a focal point in the power struggle between Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, and Abner, the commander of Saul's army. Ish-bosheth accused Abner of sleeping with Rizpah, an act that would have been seen as a claim to Saul's throne. This accusation led to a rift between Ish-bosheth and Abner, ultimately contributing to the weakening of Saul's house and the rise of David as king. A Mother's Vigil Rizpah's most notable act is recorded in 2 Samuel 21:8-14. During David's reign, a famine struck Israel, and it was revealed that it was due to Saul's breach of a covenant with the Gibeonites. To atone, David handed over seven of Saul's descendants to the Gibeonites, including Rizpah's sons, Armoni and Mephibosheth. They were executed and left exposed on a hill. In a profound display of maternal love and devotion, Rizpah took sackcloth and spread it on a rock, keeping a vigil over the bodies from the beginning of the harvest until the rains fell. Her actions prevented the birds of the air and the beasts of the field from desecrating the bodies. Rizpah's vigil moved David to retrieve the bones of Saul and Jonathan, as well as those of the executed men, and give them a proper burial in the tomb of Kish, Saul's father. Legacy Rizpah's account is a testament to the strength and resilience of a mother's love in the face of overwhelming sorrow and injustice. Her actions not only ensured a dignified end for her sons but also brought about a resolution to the famine afflicting Israel. Rizpah's legacy is one of courage and unwavering devotion, highlighting the profound impact of personal sacrifice and the pursuit of justice within the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 3:7And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ishbosheth said to Abner, Why have you gone in to my father's concubine? Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 7532. Ritspah -- concubine of Saul... Word Origin from the same as ritspah Definition concubine of Saul NASB Word Usage Rizpah (4). Rizpah. The same as ritspah; Ritspah, an Israelitess -- Rizpah. ... /hebrew/7532.htm - 6k Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Questions about 2 Samuel | GotQuestions.orgWho was Abner in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of David and Ish-Bosheth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |