2 Samuel 21:16

Then Ishbi-benob, a descendant of Rapha, whose bronze spear weighed three hundred shekels and who was bearing a new sword, resolved to kill David.

Study Bible

Then Ishbi-benob
Ishbi-benob is identified as one of the Philistine giants, a descendant of Rapha. The Philistines were long-standing enemies of Israel, often at war with them. Giants in the Bible, such as Goliath, are often seen as formidable foes, representing challenges that God's people must overcome. Ishbi-benob's presence in the narrative highlights the ongoing threat from the Philistines even after David's earlier victories.

a descendant of Rapha
Rapha is often associated with the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants mentioned in the Old Testament. The Rephaim were considered mighty and fearsome warriors. This lineage emphasizes the physical and symbolic threat posed by Ishbi-benob, as he comes from a line of formidable adversaries. The mention of his ancestry underscores the persistent nature of Israel's enemies.

whose bronze spear weighed three hundred shekels
The weight of Ishbi-benob's spear, approximately 7.5 pounds or 3.4 kilograms, signifies his strength and the threat he posed. Bronze was a common material for weapons in the ancient Near East, and the mention of its weight indicates the formidable nature of his armament. This detail parallels the description of Goliath's weaponry, drawing a connection between the two giants and the challenges they represent.

and who was bearing a new sword
The mention of a "new sword" suggests that Ishbi-benob was well-equipped and prepared for battle. In ancient warfare, having new or superior weapons could provide a significant advantage. This detail highlights the seriousness of the threat to David, as Ishbi-benob was not only strong but also well-armed.

resolved to kill David
Ishbi-benob's intention to kill David underscores the ongoing danger faced by the king, despite his past victories. David, as the anointed king of Israel, often faced threats from both external enemies and internal strife. This moment reflects the spiritual and physical battles that David encountered throughout his life. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's chosen leaders over their adversaries, a theme that resonates with the messianic hope found in the lineage of David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ishbi-benob
A Philistine warrior, described as a descendant of Rapha, indicating he was a giant. His intent was to kill King David, showcasing the ongoing conflict between the Philistines and Israel.

2. David
The King of Israel, known for his leadership and faith in God. At this point in his life, David is older and more vulnerable, highlighting the need for support from his warriors.

3. Descendants of Rapha
Refers to a group of giants, possibly related to the Rephaim, a race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament. This emphasizes the formidable nature of Israel's enemies.

4. Philistines
A recurring adversary of Israel, representing the persistent spiritual and physical battles God's people face.

5. Bronze Spearhead and New Sword
Symbolic of the strength and advanced weaponry of Israel's enemies, underscoring the physical threat posed to David and his kingdom.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Spiritual Battles
Just as David faced physical giants, believers today face spiritual giants. We must be vigilant and prepared for ongoing spiritual warfare.

The Importance of Community and Support
David's vulnerability highlights the need for support from others. In our spiritual journey, we need the support of fellow believers to stand firm.

Reliance on God's Strength
Despite the formidable appearance of our enemies, our ultimate reliance should be on God's strength and provision, not our own abilities.

The Persistence of the Enemy
The Philistines' repeated attacks remind us that spiritual battles are ongoing. We must remain steadfast and continually seek God's guidance and protection.

The Role of Leadership and Legacy
David's leadership, even in vulnerability, sets an example for us to lead with faith and courage, trusting God to fulfill His promises through us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Ishbi-benob and David illustrate the nature of spiritual battles we face today?

2. In what ways can we support and protect our spiritual leaders, as David's men did for him?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced a "giant" in your life. How did your faith in God help you overcome it?

4. How can the account of David and Ishbi-benob encourage us to rely on God's strength rather than our own?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are spiritually prepared for the persistent attacks of the enemy, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 17
The account of David and Goliath, another giant, highlights David's faith and God's deliverance, drawing a parallel to the ongoing battles with giants.

Psalm 18
David's song of deliverance, where he praises God for protection against his enemies, reflecting his reliance on divine strength rather than human might.

Ephesians 6:10-18
The armor of God passage, which encourages believers to rely on spiritual strength and God's protection in the face of spiritual battles.