Main Highlights
Atonement for Saul's sin against the Gibeonites, followed by accounts of battles against the Philistines, demonstrating David's commitment to justice and his continued role as a warrior king.
Key Verses
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, “It is because of Saul and his bloody house, because he put the Gibeonites to death.”— 2 Samuel 21:1
So the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bore to Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth, and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she bore to Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite.— 2 Samuel 21:8
And 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
And there was war again with the Philistines, and Elhanan the son of Jair struck down Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver's beam.— 2 Samuel 21:19
Related Scripture
For the Lord loves justice; he will not forsake his saints. They are preserved forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.— Psalm 37:28
Scholar Insight
"The famine and its resolution highlight the interconnectedness of sin, judgment, and atonement in the Old Testament. Saul's sin had far-reaching consequences, and justice demanded a remedy.” - Gordon McConville, 1 and 2 Samuel (Understanding the Bible Commentary Series)"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
We learn about God's justice and his demand for atonement for sin. He doesn't overlook injustice.
Christological Connection
The atoning sacrifice made to appease the Gibeonites prefigures the ultimate atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The sons being put to death is an example of Jesus' sacrafice.
Systematic Theology
The concept of Atonement is central. The passage illustrates the need for a sacrifice to restore a broken relationship and appease divine justice.
Law & Grace
The execution of Saul's descendants represents the demands of the law, while David's honoring of Rizpah's vigil displays a measure of compassion and grace.
Personal Application
We should be mindful of the consequences of our actions and strive to make amends for any wrongs we have committed. We should also be grateful for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ that covers our sins.