2 Samuel 21:11

When David was told what Saul's concubine Rizpah, daughter of Aiah, had done,

Study Bible

When David was told
This phrase indicates a moment of revelation or communication to King David. The Hebrew root for "told" is "נָגַד" (nagad), which means to make known or declare. This suggests that the actions of Rizpah were significant enough to be reported to the king, highlighting the importance of her actions in the narrative. In a historical context, communication to a king would typically involve matters of great importance, suggesting that Rizpah's actions had a profound impact on the community and on David himself.

what Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah
Rizpah is identified here by her lineage, "the daughter of Aiah," which is a common biblical method of establishing identity and heritage. The name Rizpah means "glowing coal" or "hot stone," which could symbolize her passionate and enduring spirit. Her lineage is significant as it ties her to the house of Saul, providing context for her actions and the subsequent events. Historically, lineage was crucial in Israelite society, often determining one's social standing and role within the community.

the concubine of Saul
Rizpah's status as a concubine of Saul places her in a complex social position. A concubine in ancient Israel was a woman who lived with a man but had lower status than a wife. This status often involved bearing children and maintaining the household. Rizpah's relationship with Saul adds layers to her actions, as she is acting out of loyalty and love for her deceased family. This highlights the personal and political ramifications of her actions, as they are intertwined with the legacy of Saul's house.

had done
The phrase "had done" refers to Rizpah's actions, which are detailed earlier in the chapter. The Hebrew root "עָשָׂה" (asah) means to do, make, or accomplish. Rizpah's actions were not passive; they were deliberate and purposeful. Her vigil over the bodies of her sons, protecting them from scavengers, was an act of profound love and devotion. This act of mourning and protection was a powerful statement in the cultural and religious context of the time, emphasizing the sanctity of the dead and the duty of the living to honor them. Her actions ultimately moved David to give the deceased a proper burial, reflecting the impact of her steadfastness and the divine justice that follows.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, known for his heart after God and his leadership. In this context, he is informed about Rizpah's actions.

2. Rizpah
The daughter of Aiah and a concubine of Saul. Her actions of mourning and protecting the bodies of her sons demonstrate her devotion and maternal love.

3. Saul
The first King of Israel, whose actions led to a famine in the land due to his breach of a covenant with the Gibeonites.

4. Gibeonites
A group that had a covenant with Israel, which Saul violated, leading to a famine as divine retribution.

5. Aiah
The father of Rizpah, mentioned to provide her lineage and background.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites had long-lasting effects, reminding us that our actions can have far-reaching consequences.

The Power of a Mother's Love
Rizpah's dedication to her sons, even in death, exemplifies the depth of maternal love and commitment.

Justice and Atonement
The need to address past wrongs is crucial for healing and restoration, as seen in David's response to the famine.

Leadership and Responsibility
David's role in addressing the famine highlights the importance of leaders taking responsibility for resolving issues, even those inherited from predecessors.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Rizpah's actions demonstrate faithfulness and perseverance, encouraging us to remain steadfast in difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Rizpah challenge our understanding of justice and mercy in the context of past wrongs?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of Saul's actions affecting the nation of Israel, and how does this relate to the principle of sowing and reaping found in Galatians 6:7?

3. How does Rizpah's devotion to her sons inspire us to act with love and commitment in our own family relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's response to the famine about addressing unresolved issues in our own lives or communities?

5. How can Rizpah's perseverance in adversity encourage us to remain faithful in our own trials, and what other biblical figures demonstrate similar perseverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
This chapter provides background on Saul's disobedience to God, which sets the stage for the consequences seen in 2 Samuel 21.

Deuteronomy 21:22-23
This passage discusses the treatment of executed bodies, which connects to Rizpah's actions in protecting the bodies of her sons.

Genesis 9:6
The principle of justice and the sanctity of life, which underpins the events leading to the famine and the need for atonement.