2 Samuel 21:5

And they answered the king, "As for the man who consumed us and plotted against us to exterminate us from existing within any border of Israel,

Study Bible

They answered the king
This phrase sets the stage for a dialogue between the Gibeonites and King David. The Gibeonites were a group of people who had made a covenant with Israel during the time of Joshua (Joshua 9). The Hebrew root for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) implies a response to a question or situation, often with a sense of giving testimony or bearing witness. This highlights the gravity of the situation, as the Gibeonites are not merely speaking but testifying to a grievance that has historical and covenantal implications.

As for the man who consumed us
The term "consumed" (כָּלָה, kalah) in Hebrew conveys a sense of complete destruction or annihilation. This word choice underscores the severity of Saul's actions against the Gibeonites, which were not just acts of aggression but attempts at total eradication. Historically, this reflects the broader context of Saul's reign, where his zeal for Israel sometimes led to actions that violated previous covenants, such as the one with the Gibeonites.

and plotted against us
The word "plotted" (חָשַׁב, chashab) suggests a deliberate and calculated plan. This indicates that Saul's actions were not impulsive but premeditated, reflecting a deeper hostility. In the biblical narrative, this serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking oaths and covenants, which were considered sacred and binding.

to exterminate us
The phrase "to exterminate" (שָׁמַד, shamad) is a strong term that implies a complete and utter destruction. This reflects the genocidal intent behind Saul's actions, which were aimed at wiping out the Gibeonites entirely. This historical context emphasizes the seriousness of Saul's sin and the need for atonement, as the bloodguilt had brought a famine upon Israel.

from remaining within any border of Israel
The concept of "border" (גְּבוּל, gebul) in Hebrew not only refers to physical boundaries but also to the idea of community and belonging. The Gibeonites were meant to live within the borders of Israel as part of the covenant community. Saul's attempt to remove them from these borders was not just a physical act but a spiritual and communal violation. This highlights the importance of honoring God's covenants and the inclusive nature of God's people, which transcends ethnic and national boundaries.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Gibeonites
A group of people who were not Israelites but had a treaty with Israel. They were wronged by Saul, who sought to annihilate them, breaking the covenant made during Joshua's time.

2. King David
The king of Israel at the time, who sought to make amends for Saul's actions against the Gibeonites to end a famine in the land.

3. Saul
The former king of Israel, who violated the treaty with the Gibeonites by attempting to destroy them, leading to divine retribution in the form of a famine.

4. Israel
The nation experiencing a famine as a consequence of Saul's actions against the Gibeonites, highlighting the importance of covenant faithfulness.

5. The Famine
A three-year famine in Israel, seen as a divine response to Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Covenant Faithfulness
God takes covenants seriously, and breaking them can have severe consequences. We must honor our commitments, both to God and others.

The Consequences of Sin
Saul's actions had long-lasting effects on the nation of Israel. Our sins can have broader implications than we might realize.

Seeking Reconciliation
David's response to the famine was to seek reconciliation and make amends. We should strive to rectify wrongs and seek peace in our relationships.

Divine Justice and Mercy
God's justice is evident in the famine, but His mercy is shown in providing a way to resolve the issue. We should trust in God's justice and seek His mercy.

Leadership Responsibility
As leaders, our actions can impact those we lead. We must act with integrity and seek God's guidance in our decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Gibeonites and Saul illustrate the importance of keeping promises and covenants in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we seek reconciliation and make amends for past wrongs, as David did with the Gibeonites?

3. How do the consequences of Saul's actions remind us of the broader impact our sins can have on others?

4. What can we learn from David's leadership in addressing the famine and seeking God's guidance?

5. How does this passage challenge us to trust in God's justice and seek His mercy in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
This chapter details the original covenant made between the Israelites and the Gibeonites, which Saul violated. It underscores the importance of honoring covenants.

2 Samuel 21:1-14
Provides the broader context of the famine and David's actions to rectify Saul's breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites.

Exodus 20:16
The commandment against bearing false witness, which relates to the importance of truthfulness and faithfulness in covenants.

Numbers 30:2
Emphasizes the importance of keeping vows and promises, relevant to the broken covenant with the Gibeonites.