2 Samuel 21:12

he went and took the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan from the men of Jabesh-gilead, who had stolen them from the public square of Beth-shan where the Philistines had hung the bodies after they had struck down Saul at Gilboa.

Study Bible

he went and retrieved
This phrase indicates a deliberate and purposeful action taken by David. The Hebrew root for "retrieved" is "laqach," which means to take, fetch, or bring. This action reflects David's respect and honor for Saul and Jonathan, despite Saul's previous enmity towards him. It underscores a theme of reconciliation and respect for the anointed king of Israel, even in death.

the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan
The mention of "bones" signifies the remains of Saul and Jonathan, highlighting the importance of proper burial in ancient Israelite culture. In Hebrew tradition, burial was a sacred duty, and leaving bodies unburied was considered a curse. The retrieval of their bones symbolizes an act of restoration and dignity, ensuring that Saul and Jonathan are honored appropriately.

from the men of Jabesh-gilead
The men of Jabesh-gilead were known for their loyalty to Saul. Historically, they had been rescued by Saul from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11), which likely motivated their brave act of retrieving his body. This phrase highlights the enduring loyalty and gratitude of the people of Jabesh-gilead towards Saul, reflecting the deep bonds of kinship and loyalty in Israelite society.

who had stolen them from the public square of Beth-shan
The act of "stealing" the bodies from Beth-shan was a courageous and risky endeavor. Beth-shan was a Philistine stronghold, and the public display of the bodies was meant to humiliate Israel. The men of Jabesh-gilead's actions were not only a tribute to Saul but also a defiance against the Philistines' attempt to disgrace Israel. This reflects the theme of honor and the importance of reclaiming dignity in the face of shame.

where the Philistines had hung the bodies
The Philistines' act of hanging the bodies was a common practice in the ancient Near East to display victory and instill fear. This phrase underscores the humiliation that Israel faced at the hands of their enemies. However, it also sets the stage for David's redemptive act of retrieving the bodies, which serves as a counter-narrative to the Philistines' attempt to dishonor Israel.

after they struck down Saul at Gilboa
The battle at Mount Gilboa was a significant and tragic event for Israel, marking the end of Saul's reign. The phrase "struck down" indicates a decisive defeat, which had profound implications for the nation. This context highlights the transition of leadership from Saul to David and the divine orchestration of Israel's history, where God raises and deposes kings according to His sovereign will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who sought to honor Saul and Jonathan by retrieving their bones for a proper burial.

2. Saul
The first King of Israel, whose death marked a significant transition in Israel's monarchy.

3. Jonathan
Saul's son and David's close friend, known for his loyalty and bravery.

4. Jabesh-gilead
A city in Israel whose men bravely retrieved the bodies of Saul and Jonathan from the Philistines.

5. Beth-shan
The location where the Philistines displayed the bodies of Saul and Jonathan after their defeat at Mount Gilboa.

6. Philistines
The enemies of Israel who defeated Saul and his sons, displaying their bodies as a sign of victory.

Teaching Points

Respect for the Dead
David's actions demonstrate the importance of honoring those who have passed, reflecting a deep respect for the deceased and their families.

Loyalty and Friendship
The relationship between David and Jonathan serves as a model of true friendship and loyalty, even beyond death.

Courage and Honor
The men of Jabesh-gilead exemplify bravery and honor by risking their lives to retrieve the bodies of Saul and Jonathan.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership Transitions
The transition from Saul to David as king illustrates God's hand in leadership changes and the fulfillment of His plans.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
David's actions towards Saul's family show a heart of reconciliation and forgiveness, despite Saul's previous attempts on David's life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's retrieval of Saul and Jonathan's bones reflect his character and leadership qualities?

2. In what ways can we show respect and honor to those who have passed away in our own lives?

3. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan inspire us to cultivate deeper relationships with others?

4. What can we learn from the men of Jabesh-gilead about courage and taking risks for what is right?

5. How does this passage encourage us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships, even with those who may have wronged us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 31
Provides the account of Saul and Jonathan's death and the initial retrieval of their bodies by the men of Jabesh-gilead.

1 Chronicles 10
Offers a parallel account of Saul's death and the actions of the men of Jabesh-gilead.

2 Samuel 1
Describes David's lament for Saul and Jonathan, highlighting his respect and love for them.

Genesis 50
Joseph's request to have his bones carried out of Egypt, showing the importance of proper burial in Hebrew culture.