Divine Justice and Royal Responsibility: Exploring 2 Samuel 21

Executive Summary ✨

2 Samuel 21 presents a stark exploration of divine justice and the enduring consequences of broken oaths. The chapter opens with a famine lasting three years, revealed to be God’s judgment for Saul’s slaughter of the Gibeonites, a violation of a covenant made generations prior by Joshua. David seeks atonement by delivering Saul’s descendants to the Gibeonites for retribution. The narrative then shifts to tales of heroic battles against the Philistines, emphasizing the courage of David’s warriors and highlighting the importance of protecting the king. This chapter underscores the unwavering nature of God’s justice, the weight of leadership responsibility, and the significance of honoring covenants. It also celebrates the valor and loyalty of those who serve in the Lord’s cause. Through these narratives, we glean valuable lessons on obedience, justice, and unwavering faith, revealing God’s intricate plan and care for His people. We will also explore the spiritual and practical implications of fulfilling obligations, both to God and to our neighbors. The key theme is the importance of Atonement for Broken Covenants.

In 2 Samuel 21, we confront the enduring consequences of sin and the imperative of atonement. The chapter compels us to reflect on our own commitments, both to God and to each other, and to strive for righteousness in all our dealings. This journey through the ancient text will provide insight into the timeless principles of divine justice, royal responsibility, and the importance of honoring covenants. This chapter shows how important it is to get a proper website design to represent the church appropriately.

Commentary Sections 📖

2 Samuel 21:1 (KJV)

KJV: Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David enquired of the Lord. And the Lord answered, It is for Saul, and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites.

NKJV: Now there was a famine in the days of David for three years, year after year; and David inquired of the Lord. And the Lord answered, “It is because of Saul and his bloodthirsty house, because he killed the Gibeonites.”

The chapter commences with a devastating famine gripping the land of Israel for three consecutive years. This was no ordinary drought; it was a direct intervention of God, a manifestation of His divine displeasure. David, a king ever mindful of his responsibility to his people, inquires of the Lord. God’s response is unequivocal: the famine is a consequence of Saul’s grievous sin – the slaughter of the Gibeonites. This act violated a solemn oath made by Joshua centuries earlier (Joshua 9:15), binding Israel to protect the Gibeonites. Saul, in his zeal, likely attempted to purge the land of non-Israelites, but in doing so, he defied a sacred covenant. This emphasizes that even well-intentioned actions can have devastating consequences if they transgress God’s law and violate promises. This famine underscores the interconnectedness of a nation’s sins and its suffering. We are called to examine the sins of our communities and seek reconciliation where injustices have been committed.

Patristic Insight: Saint Augustine, in his “City of God,” reminds us that “an unjust law is no law at all,” highlighting the inherent moral obligation to uphold justice and righteousness, even when earthly authority commands otherwise. Saul’s actions, though perhaps politically motivated, were inherently unjust and thus, incurred God’s wrath.

Spiritual Application: We must strive to understand the lasting impact of our actions and the importance of honoring agreements, both large and small. Like David, we should seek God’s guidance when faced with adversity, trusting in His wisdom and justice.

2 Samuel 21:2-3 (KJV)

KJV: And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the Gibeonites were not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.) 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?

NKJV: So the king called the Gibeonites and spoke to them. Now the Gibeonites were not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn protection to them. But Saul had sought to kill them in his zeal for the children of Israel and Judah. Therefore David said to the Gibeonites, “What shall I do for you? How can I make atonement, that you may bless the inheritance of the Lord?”

David, understanding the gravity of the situation, summons the Gibeonites. The text clarifies their origin: they are descendants of the Amorites, a remnant spared by Joshua’s covenant. Saul’s attempt to exterminate them was fueled by a misplaced zeal, a desire to purify the land. However, true piety lies not in outward displays of fervor but in adherence to God’s word and the honoring of commitments. David humbly seeks guidance from the Gibeonites, asking how he can atone for Saul’s transgression. This demonstrates his understanding of vicarious responsibility – the acknowledgment that the sins of one generation can have consequences for future generations. David’s question reveals his commitment to justice and his desire to appease the wronged party. He prioritizes reconciliation over political expediency.

Patristic Insight: Saint Cyril of Alexandria teaches that “true repentance involves acknowledging the wrongs committed and actively seeking to make amends to those who have been harmed.” David’s willingness to humble himself before the Gibeonites exemplifies this principle.

Spiritual Application: We must be willing to confront past injustices and take responsibility for the actions of those who came before us. Seeking forgiveness and making restitution are essential steps towards healing and reconciliation. When we make mistakes, we can utilize a church app to confess and begin the repentance process.

2 Samuel 21:4-6 (KJV)

KJV: And the Gibeonites said unto him, We will have no silver nor gold of Saul, nor of his house; neither for us shalt thou kill any man in Israel. And he said, What will ye then that I should do for you? And they answered, We will have seven men of his sons delivered unto us, and we will hang them up unto the Lord in Gibeah of Saul, whom the Lord did choose. And the king said, I will give them.

NKJV: And the Gibeonites said to him, “We will have no silver or gold from Saul or from his house, nor do we desire that you kill any man in Israel for us.” So he said, “What do you want me to do for you?” Then they answered, “Let seven men of his descendants be delivered to us, and we will hang them before the Lord in Gibeah of Saul, whom the Lord chose.” And the king said, “I will give them.”

The Gibeonites, surprisingly, do not seek monetary compensation. Their demand is far more unsettling: they request the execution of seven of Saul’s descendants, to be “hanged up unto the Lord.” This request reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of offering human sacrifices to appease divine wrath. While abhorrent from a modern Christian perspective, it’s crucial to understand this within its historical and cultural context. The Gibeonites believed that only the shedding of blood could cleanse the land from the defilement caused by Saul’s actions. David, bound by his word and seeking to alleviate the famine, agrees to their demand. This is a deeply troubling passage that requires careful interpretation. We must remember that God’s justice, while sometimes appearing harsh in the Old Testament, ultimately points towards the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which atones for all sins and renders human sacrifice obsolete.

Patristic Insight: Saint Athanasius argues that the Old Testament sacrifices were foreshadowing the perfect sacrifice of Christ, “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” The Gibeonites’ request, while rooted in a pre-Christian understanding of atonement, highlights the desperate need for reconciliation with God. (Αθανάσιος Αλεξανδρείας, *Περὶ Ἐνανθρωπήσεως*)

Spiritual Application: While we abhor human sacrifice, this passage reminds us of the seriousness of sin and its consequences. It points us towards the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the only true and sufficient atonement for our sins. We must be mindful of the choices we make and the potential ripple effects they may have on future generations.

2 Samuel 21:7-9 (KJV)

KJV: But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the Lord’s oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul. But the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bare unto Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite: And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them in the hill before the Lord: and they fell all seven together, and were put to death in the days of harvest, in the first days, in the beginning of barley harvest.

NKJV: But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the Lord’s oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul. So the king took Armoni and Mephibosheth, the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul; and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite; and he delivered them into the hand of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them on the hill before the Lord. So they fell, all seven together, and were put to death in the days of harvest, in the first days, in the beginning of barley harvest.

David, remembering his sacred covenant with Jonathan, spares Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son. This act highlights the importance of fidelity and the enduring nature of true friendship. He then delivers seven other descendants of Saul to the Gibeonites, who execute them in Gibeah, Saul’s hometown. The timing – the beginning of barley harvest – is significant. It symbolizes the potential for new life and abundance, ironically juxtaposed with the taking of life. The precise identities of those executed are complex. The text mentions Michal’s sons, but a footnote suggests these were actually sons of Merab, Michal’s sister. Regardless, the execution of these individuals is a tragic consequence of Saul’s sin. This also reminds us that sometimes atonement can be a long and arduous process, requiring difficult choices and profound sacrifices. This also underscores the interconnectedness of families and the long reach of consequences. The barley harvest connects to the Eucharist where we taste the bread of life.

Patristic Insight: Saint John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of honoring oaths and covenants, stating that “a broken promise is a broken soul.” David’s decision to spare Mephibosheth reflects his understanding of the sanctity of oaths and his commitment to preserving his friendship with Jonathan. (Ἰωάννης Χρυσόστομος, *Ὁμιλίαι εἰς τὴν πρὸς Ἑβραίους ἐπιστολήν*)

Spiritual Application: We must strive to be people of our word, honoring our commitments even when it is difficult. Like David, we should prioritize fidelity and loyalty in our relationships, remembering that true friendship is a precious gift from God.

2 Samuel 21:10-14 (KJV)

KJV: And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth, and spread it for her upon the rock, from the beginning of harvest until water dropped upon them out of heaven, and suffered neither the birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night. And it was told David what Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, the concubine of Saul, had done. And David went and took the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his son from the men of Jabeshgilead, which had stolen them from the street of Bethshan, where the Philistines had hanged them, when the Philistines had slain Saul in Gilboa: And he brought up from thence the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his son; and they gathered the bones of them that were hanged, and buried them in the sepulchre of Kish his father: and after that God was intreated for the land.

NKJV: Then Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it for herself on the rock, from the beginning of harvest until water dripped on them from heaven. And she did not allow the birds of the air to rest on them by day nor the beasts of the field by night. And David was told what Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, the concubine of Saul, had done. Then David went and took the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his son from the men of Jabesh Gilead, who had stolen them from the street of Beth Shan, where the Philistines had hanged them after they had struck down Saul on Gilboa. So he brought the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his son up from there; and they gathered the bones of those who had been hanged, and buried them in the tomb of Kish his father. After that God heeded the prayer for the land.

Rizpah’s poignant act of mourning is a powerful image of maternal love and grief. She spreads sackcloth and vigilantly guards the bodies of her sons from scavengers, day and night, until the drought finally breaks. Her unwavering dedication moves David, who then retrieves the bones of Saul and Jonathan from Jabesh Gilead (whose inhabitants Saul once rescued). He gathers the bones of the executed men and buries them all in the family tomb of Kish. Only after these acts of piety and respect for the dead does God answer the prayers for the land and end the famine. This section highlights the importance of compassion, respect for the deceased, and the powerful effect of intercessory prayer. Rizpah’s actions also suggest the value of persistent and unwavering devotion, even in the face of immense suffering. This devotion also inspires us to be reverent in our own lives and to pray for those who are suffering.

Patristic Insight: Saint Ephrem the Syrian teaches that “compassion is the key that unlocks the door to God’s mercy.” Rizpah’s unwavering compassion for her sons moves David to action and ultimately leads to God’s intervention. (ܐܦܪܝܡ ܣܘܪܝܝܐ, *ܡܕܪ̈ܫܐ ܕܥܠ ܢܝܢܘܐ*)

Spiritual Application: We must cultivate compassion for those who are suffering and be willing to offer practical help and support. Like Rizpah, we should persevere in prayer, trusting that God will hear our cries and answer according to His perfect will. We should also respect the dead and honor their memory, recognizing the inherent dignity of every human life.

Battles Against the Philistines ⚔️🛡️

The narrative shifts abruptly to recount several heroic battles fought against the Philistines. These accounts serve to highlight the courage and loyalty of David’s warriors, emphasizing their role in protecting the king and securing the safety of Israel.

2 Samuel 21:15-22 (KJV)

KJV: Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel; and David went down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines: and David waxed faint. And Ishbibenob, which was of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of brass in weight, he being girded with a new sword, thought to have slain David. But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel. And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with the Philistines at Gob: then Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Saph, which was of the sons of the giant. And there was again a battle with the Philistines at Gob; and Elhanan the son of Jaaregoregim, a Bethlehemite, slew the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the staff of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of great stature, that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant. And when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimei the brother of David slew him. These four were born to the giant in Gath, and fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

NKJV: When the Philistines were at war again with Israel, David and his servants with him went down and fought against the Philistines; and David grew faint. Then Ishbi-Benob, who was one of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose bronze spear was three hundred shekels, who was armed with a new sword, thought he could kill David. But Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to his aid, and struck the Philistine and killed him. Then the men of David swore to him, saying, “You shall go out no more with us to battle, lest you quench the lamp of Israel!” Now it happened again in the battle with the Philistines at Gob, that Sibbechai the Hushathite killed Saph, who was one of the sons of the giant. Again there was war at Gob with the Philistines, and Elhanan the son of Jaare-Oregim, the Bethlehemite, killed the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. Yet again there was war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature, who had six fingers on every hand and six toes on every foot, twenty-four in number; and he also was born to the giant. So when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea, David’s brother, killed him. These four were descendants of the giant in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants.

These verses depict a series of encounters between the Israelites and formidable Philistine warriors, descendants of the giants. The first battle sees David himself nearly killed by Ishbi-Benob, a giant whose spear weighs an astounding 300 shekels of bronze. Abishai heroically intervenes, saving David’s life. This incident leads David’s men to swear that he will no longer risk his life in battle, recognizing the vital importance of his leadership for the nation. This acknowledgment underscores the weight of leadership and the need for wisdom in recognizing limitations. Subsequent battles highlight the bravery of other Israelite warriors: Sibbechai, Elhanan, and Jonathan, who each defeat Philistine giants. The account of Elhanan slaying Goliath’s brother is particularly interesting, potentially clarifying the earlier account of David slaying Goliath (1 Samuel 17). This passage emphasizes the strength and courage that can be found in those who serve God, and the importance of teamwork in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It is possible that it was Goliath’s brother that was slain by Elhanan, and perhaps the account of David slaying Goliath was added to further glorify David. This shows the development of Scripture over time. David’s men show that we need to care for our spiritual leaders.

Patristic Insight: Saint Gregory of Nyssa teaches that “true strength lies not in physical prowess but in spiritual fortitude.” The courage of David’s warriors, rooted in their faith and loyalty to God, exemplifies this principle. (Γρηγόριος Νύσσης, *Εἰς τὸν βίον Μωϋσέως*)

Spiritual Application: We may not face physical giants, but we all encounter challenges that seem insurmountable. We should draw strength from our faith, rely on the support of our community, and remember that even the smallest act of courage can make a difference. We must also know our limits, and trust that God will give us guidance on when to rest and regroup.

Key Reflections and Teachings 💡

From 2 Samuel 21, we can glean several crucial lessons:

• The Enduring Consequences of Sin: Saul’s sin against the Gibeonites had far-reaching effects, impacting the entire nation for years to come. This reminds us that our actions have consequences, both for ourselves and for others.
• The Importance of Honoring Covenants: God holds us accountable for the promises we make, both to Him and to others. Fidelity and integrity are essential qualities of a righteous life.
• The Power of Atonement and Reconciliation: David’s efforts to atone for Saul’s sin demonstrate the importance of seeking forgiveness and making amends for our wrongs.
• The Value of Compassion and Respect for the Dead: Rizpah’s unwavering dedication to her sons and David’s decision to bury the bones of Saul and Jonathan highlight the importance of compassion and respect for all human life.
• The Courage and Loyalty of God’s Servants: The heroic deeds of David’s warriors remind us that God empowers those who serve Him with strength and courage.
• The Protection of the King: The oath the men of David took to prevent him from going to battle shows us how much our spiritual leaders need us to look after their well-being.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Samuel 21:

• Q: Why did God punish the entire nation for Saul’s sin?

  A: In the Old Testament, a nation’s sins often brought collective consequences. Saul was the king, and his actions represented the nation. The famine served as a wake-up call, prompting the people to confront their shared responsibility for justice and righteousness.

• Q: Was David right to hand over Saul’s descendants to the Gibeonites?

  A: This is a complex question. David was bound by his word and sought to appease the Gibeonites. However, the concept of collective punishment is problematic. Ultimately, this event points towards the need for a perfect sacrifice, which is fulfilled in Christ.

• Q: What is the significance of Rizpah’s actions?

  A: Rizpah’s unwavering devotion and grief highlight the value of compassion and maternal love. Her actions moved David to seek reconciliation and ultimately led to God’s intervention, ending the famine.

• Q: How does this chapter relate to the New Testament?

  A: 2 Samuel 21 highlights the consequences of sin and the need for atonement, themes that are central to the New Testament. The chapter also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who atones for all sins and brings reconciliation between God and humanity.

Conclusion 🕊️

2 Samuel 21, a tapestry woven with threads of divine justice, human fallibility, and unwavering faith, offers a profound exploration of the responsibilities of leadership and the enduring consequences of sin. The chapter compels us to reflect on the importance of honoring our covenants, seeking atonement for our wrongs, and cultivating compassion for those who suffer. Through the famine, the Gibeonites’ demand for justice, and the heroic battles against the Philistines, we witness the unwavering hand of God working to bring about His purposes. The key takeaway from this chapter is that Atonement for Broken Covenants is necessary for healing. This calls for introspection and a commitment to integrity. 2 Samuel 21 also points us towards the ultimate fulfillment of justice and reconciliation in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice transcends the limitations of earthly atonement and offers eternal hope for all who believe. Let us be mindful of the power of our actions, the weight of our promises, and the boundless grace of God, who calls us to live lives of righteousness and love.

Tags

2 Samuel 21, Vengeance for the Gibeonites and Battles, David, Saul, Gibeonites, Atonement, Covenant, Philistines, Rizpah, Justice, Old Testament, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore 2 Samuel 21: Vengeance for the Gibeonites and Battles. A Coptic Orthodox commentary on divine justice, covenants, and Atonement for Broken Covenants. Insights & applications.