2 Samuel 2:5

So David sent messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead to tell them, "The LORD bless you, because you showed this kindness to Saul your lord when you buried him.

Study Bible

he sent messengers
This phrase indicates David's proactive leadership and diplomatic approach. The Hebrew root for "sent" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which often implies a mission or purpose. David's action here is not just a political move but a gesture of goodwill and respect. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sending messengers was a common practice for communication between leaders and tribes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining alliances and expressing gratitude.

to the men of Jabesh-gilead
Jabesh-gilead was a city east of the Jordan River, known for its loyalty to Saul. Historically, this city had a special relationship with Saul, as he had once rescued them from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11). By reaching out to them, David acknowledges their past loyalty and seeks to build a bridge between his new reign and Saul's supporters. This reflects a strategic and compassionate approach to leadership, aiming to unify the kingdom.

and said to them
The act of speaking or sending a message in biblical times was significant, as it conveyed authority and intent. The Hebrew word for "said" is אָמַר (amar), which can also mean to declare or command. David's words are carefully chosen to convey respect and blessing, setting a tone of peace and reconciliation.

'May you be blessed by the LORD
This blessing invokes the name of the LORD, יהוה (YHWH), the covenant God of Israel. By doing so, David aligns his message with divine approval, suggesting that their actions are not only commendable but also in accordance with God's will. The use of a blessing here is both a form of gratitude and a prayer for divine favor upon the men of Jabesh-gilead.

because you showed this kindness
The Hebrew word for "kindness" is חֶסֶד (chesed), which encompasses loyalty, faithfulness, and loving-kindness. This term is often used to describe God's covenantal love for His people. By acknowledging their chesed, David highlights the moral and spiritual significance of their actions, elevating their loyalty to Saul as an act of covenant faithfulness.

to Saul your lord
Referring to Saul as "your lord" acknowledges the legitimate authority Saul held as the anointed king of Israel. Despite Saul's tragic end and his complex relationship with David, this phrase shows respect for Saul's position and the loyalty of his followers. It underscores the importance of honoring God's anointed, even in death.

when you buried him
The act of burial was a significant duty in ancient Israel, reflecting respect and honor for the deceased. By burying Saul, the men of Jabesh-gilead demonstrated their loyalty and respect, ensuring that Saul received a proper and dignified burial. This act of kindness was a testament to their character and their commitment to honoring their king, even in his death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The anointed king of Israel, known for his heart after God. At this point, he is consolidating his rule over Judah and later all of Israel.

2. Men of Jabesh-gilead
Residents of a city in Gilead, east of the Jordan River. They showed loyalty and respect by retrieving and burying the bodies of Saul and his sons after their defeat by the Philistines.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, whose death marked a significant transition in Israel's leadership. Despite his troubled relationship with David, he was still recognized as the Lord's anointed.

4. Jabesh-gilead
A city with historical ties to Saul, as he had previously rescued them from the Ammonites, creating a bond of loyalty.

5. Messengers
Individuals sent by David to convey his gratitude and blessings to the men of Jabesh-gilead, demonstrating diplomatic and spiritual leadership.

Teaching Points

Respect for Authority
David's blessing of the men of Jabesh-gilead underscores the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even after their fall.

Gratitude and Recognition
David's message highlights the value of expressing gratitude and recognizing the good deeds of others, fostering community and goodwill.

Peacemaking and Reconciliation
By blessing the men of Jabesh-gilead, David sets an example of peacemaking and reconciliation, crucial for healing and unity.

Legacy of Kindness
The actions of the men of Jabesh-gilead remind us that acts of kindness and loyalty can leave a lasting legacy and impact.

God's Blessing
David's invocation of God's blessing reflects the belief that true blessings come from the Lord, encouraging us to seek His favor in our actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to the men of Jabesh-gilead reflect his character and leadership style?

2. In what ways can we show respect and honor to those in authority, even when we disagree with them?

3. How can we actively practice gratitude and recognition in our daily interactions with others?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation in our communities?

5. How can we ensure that our acts of kindness leave a lasting impact and reflect God's love to those around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 31
Describes the battle where Saul and his sons died and the subsequent actions of the men of Jabesh-gilead in retrieving and burying their bodies.

1 Samuel 11
Recounts Saul's rescue of Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites, establishing the loyalty and gratitude of the people towards Saul.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers being blessed, which parallels David's blessing of the men of Jabesh-gilead for their peacemaking actions.