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 communication and revelation to King David. In the context of ancient Israel, the king was often informed of significant events by messengers or advisors. This reflects the hierarchical structure of the monarchy, where information was crucial for decision-making. David, as a king, was responsible for maintaining justice and order, and being informed was essential for his role.

what Saul’s concubine Rizpah, daughter of Aiah, had done,
Rizpah was a concubine of Saul, Israel's first king, which places her within the royal household, though with a lower status than a wife. Her actions, which involved a public display of mourning and protection of the bodies of her sons, highlight the cultural practices of mourning and the importance of burial rites in ancient Israel. Rizpah's lineage as the daughter of Aiah may indicate her noble or significant family background, which could have added weight to her actions. Her story is a poignant example of maternal devotion and has been seen as a type of intercession, reflecting themes of sacrifice and advocacy. This event connects to the broader narrative of Saul's house and the consequences of his actions, as well as the fulfillment of justice and the restoration of order under David's reign.

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.