2 Samuel 21:6

let seven of his male descendants be delivered to us so that we may hang them before the LORD at Gibeah of Saul, the chosen of the LORD." "I will give them to you," said the king.

Study Bible

let seven of his male descendants
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's creation week. Here, it signifies a complete act of justice or retribution. The "male descendants" refer to the lineage of Saul, Israel's first king, whose actions led to a breach of covenant with the Gibeonites. This request underscores the importance of familial and generational responsibility in ancient Israelite culture, where the actions of one could impact many.

be delivered to us
This phrase indicates a transfer of responsibility and justice. The Gibeonites, wronged by Saul, seek reparation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such acts of justice were often communal, involving the handing over of individuals to settle disputes or bloodguilt. This reflects the seriousness with which covenants and oaths were regarded, as well as the communal nature of justice.

so that we may hang them
The act of hanging, or impalement, was a public display of justice and a deterrent against future transgressions. In Hebrew culture, it was a severe punishment reserved for grave offenses. This act before the LORD signifies that the justice sought is not merely human but divine, seeking to restore balance and honor to a broken covenant.

before the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where actions, especially those involving justice, were performed with an awareness of God's presence and authority. It underscores the belief that God is the ultimate judge and arbiter of justice, and that human actions are accountable to Him.

at Gibeah of Saul
Gibeah was Saul's hometown and the seat of his kingship. Performing this act there is symbolic, as it ties the punishment directly to Saul's legacy and the location of his rule. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of Saul's failure to uphold the covenant with the Gibeonites, highlighting the importance of leadership accountability.

the chosen of the LORD
This phrase acknowledges Saul's initial divine appointment as king, despite his later failures. It serves as a poignant reminder of the tension between divine election and human responsibility. Saul was chosen by God, yet his actions led to dire consequences for his descendants, illustrating the complex interplay of divine sovereignty and human agency in biblical narratives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who is approached to resolve the famine by addressing the bloodguilt of Saul's house.

2. Gibeonites
A non-Israelite group who were wronged by Saul, leading to a famine as divine retribution.

3. Saul
The former King of Israel whose actions against the Gibeonites brought about the need for atonement.

4. Gibeah of Saul
The location where the descendants of Saul were to be executed, highlighting Saul's connection to the offense.

5. Seven Male Descendants
The individuals chosen to be executed as a form of atonement for Saul's sin against the Gibeonites.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Covenant
The breach of the covenant with the Gibeonites by Saul had severe consequences, reminding us of the importance of honoring our commitments and the seriousness with which God views covenants.

Justice and Atonement
The execution of Saul's descendants highlights the need for justice and atonement for sin. It points to the ultimate atonement made by Christ, who took upon Himself the punishment for our sins.

Leadership and Responsibility
Saul's actions had repercussions for his descendants, illustrating how leaders' decisions can impact future generations. This calls for responsible and godly leadership.

Divine Sovereignty and Human Action
While God is sovereign, human actions have real consequences. This passage encourages us to seek God's guidance in resolving conflicts and injustices.

The Role of Intercession
David's role in mediating between the Gibeonites and the house of Saul reflects the importance of intercession and peacemaking in resolving disputes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the covenant with the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 relate to the events in 2 Samuel 21:6, and what does this teach us about the importance of keeping our promises?

2. In what ways does the concept of atonement in 2 Samuel 21:6 foreshadow the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the principle of responsible leadership from this passage to our roles in family, church, or community?

4. What does this passage teach us about the consequences of sin and the need for justice, and how can we apply this understanding in our daily lives?

5. How can we act as intercessors and peacemakers in situations of conflict or injustice, following David's example in this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The original covenant made with the Gibeonites, which Saul violated, leading to the events in 2 Samuel 21.

Deuteronomy 21:1-9
Discusses the atonement for bloodguilt, providing a backdrop for understanding the need for justice and atonement in Israel.

Romans 12:19
Emphasizes leaving vengeance to God, contrasting human justice with divine justice.

Galatians 3:13
Speaks of Christ becoming a curse for us, offering a New Testament perspective on atonement and redemption.