Analysis of 2 Samuel Chapter 21
Second Samuel Chapter 21 explores themes of justice, divine retribution, and the importance of covenant fidelity. This chapter can be broken down into several distinct sections for a clearer understanding:
- The Gibeonite Revenge (verses 1-6)
- David’s Compliance and the Grief of Rizpah (verses 7-14)
- Renewed Warfare Against the Philistines (verses 15-22)
The Gibeonite Revenge (verses 1-6)
Verses 1 to 6 introduce the problem facing Israel and King David. There is a famine that has lasted for three years, and David seeks the Lord’s guidance to understand the root cause. The response from God reveals that the cause of the famine is Saul’s earlier actions against the Gibeonites, which violated a covenant Israel had made during Joshua’s time.
The narrative begins with David’s leadership and reliance on divine guidance:
“Now there was a famine in the days of David for three years, year after year; and David sought the face of the Lord. And the Lord said, ‘There is bloodguilt on Saul and on his house, because he put the Gibeonites to death.'” (2 Samuel 21:1)
The Gibeonites were non-Israelites who had tricked Joshua into making a peace treaty with them (Joshua 9), leading to their protection under Israel’s care. Saul’s violation of this oath represents a significant breach of faith and covenant, considered a grave sin in biblical terms.
David, recognizing the divine judgment, interacts with the Gibeonites to make amends. The Gibeonites demand the execution of seven of Saul’s male descendants, emphasizing the principle of “an eye for an eye.” This justice seeks not personal vengeance but restoration of divine and social order.
David’s Compliance and the Grief of Rizpah (verses 7-14)
David agrees to the Gibeonites’ request but spares Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, out of respect for his oath to Jonathan. This decision highlights the sanctity of promises and the integrity of David:
“But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Saul’s son Jonathan, because of the oath of the Lord that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.” (2 Samuel 21:7)
However, David hands over seven of Saul’s relatives, who are then executed by the Gibeonites. This event introduces us to Rizpah, the concubine of Saul, whose poignant display of mourning and protection over the bodies of her two sons exemplifies maternal devotion and grief:
“Then Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it for herself on the rock, from the beginning of harvest until rain fell upon them from the heavens. And she did not allow the birds of the air to come upon them by day, or the beasts of the field by night.” (2 Samuel 21:10)
Rizpah’s actions prompt David to retrieve the bones of Saul and Jonathan to give them a proper burial, showing respect and an attempt to reconcile with Saul’s house. This effort towards a proper burial also signifies a desire to restore divine favor upon Israel, ultimately bringing closure to the famine.
Renewed Warfare Against the Philistines (verses 15-22)
The chapter concludes by shifting focus to Israel’s military conflicts with the Philistines. This section shows David nearing the end of his public life but still engaged in vital battles. It highlights the continuation of the conflict with the Philistines and introduces various warriors who played significant roles:
“Then Ishbi-benob, one of the descendants of the giants, whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of bronze, and who was armed with a new sword, thought to kill David. But Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to his aid and attacked the Philistine and killed him.” (2 Samuel 21:16-17a)
David’s life is nearly taken by a Philistine giant, and he is rescued by his warrior Abishai, showcasing the loyalty and valor of his men. The narrative lists other notable warriors who defeated giants, thereby continuing the motif of God’s deliverance through His chosen servants:
- Sibbecai the Hushathite slays Saph.
- Elhanan kills the brother of Goliath.
- Jonathan, son of Shimea, defeats a six-fingered giant.
These verses remind readers of David’s earlier victory over Goliath and demonstrate that God’s strength and deliverance extend beyond a single hero to include a community of faithful warriors.
Conclusions and Theological Reflections
The Significance of Covenants: The chapter underlines the importance of upholding covenants. Saul’s breach of the treaty with the Gibeonites incurs divine retribution, teaching us the sanctity and importance God places on promises and covenants. David’s careful consideration of his oath to Jonathan and his diplomatic dealings with the Gibeonites serve as a contrast to Saul’s actions, highlighting the qualities of a just leader.
The Role of Leadership: David’s leadership is showcased in various lights — seeking divine guidance during crises, taking responsibility for past transgressions, and protecting the most vulnerable figures like Mephibosheth. His actions reflect a model of godly leadership that combines justice with mercy.
The Depth of Maternal Love: Rizpah’s vigil over her sons’ bodies embodies a powerful symbol of maternal affection and resilience. Her story evokes compassion and displays integrity and tenacity even in the face of immense personal loss and social shame.
God’s Faithfulness and Human Agency: The concluding warfare narratives emphasize that God’s deliverance often works through human agency. While David’s days as a frontline warrior are waning, God’s victories continue through David’s dedicated men, embodying a larger picture of divine faithfulness ensuring Israel’s survival and triumph.
In summary, 2 Samuel 21 is a rich tapestry of justice, leadership, covenant faithfulness, and divine-human interaction. Its lessons remain pertinent, portraying the demands of righteous leadership, the inviolability of sacred promises, and the enduring power of faithful action, even amidst adversity.