Understanding 2 Samuel 21:1

Verse: "Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David inquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, It is for Saul, and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites." (2 Samuel 21:1, KJV)

This verse marks a significant moment in the biblical narrative, connecting themes of justice, accountability, and the history of Israel. Let's explore its meaning through various commentaries and cross-references.

Summary of the Verse's Meaning

The famine described here serves as a divine response to the actions of Saul, Israel's former king. The three-year span emphasizes the severity of the situation and reflects God's covenant relationship with His people. David's inquiry to the Lord shows his leadership and responsibility as king.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry highlights the importance of David's inquiry and suggests that the famine is a call for repentance and reflection on national sin. He emphasizes that God's providence often uses circumstances to remind us of our collective responsibilities.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes notes that the mention of Saul's "bloody house" indicates that divine judgment can extend beyond an individual to their lineage. He underscores that the consequences of sin impact the community, urging readers to consider their actions' long-term effects.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the Gibeonites' significance, explaining their historical context and how their treatment under Saul's reign violated God's directive to protect them. This violation leads to famine, illustrating the grave consequences of disobedience and injustice within the community.

Cross References and Thematic Connections

This verse relates to several other scriptures that enrich its meaning:

• Joshua 9:14-15: This highlights the pact made with the Gibeonites, establishing the importance of honoring treaties.
• 1 Chronicles 10:13-14: These verses discuss Saul's demise and God's rejection of him, linking the judgments from God to a failure of leadership.
• 2 Samuel 24:17: Another instance where David experiences the consequences of sin, reinforcing the theme of national accountability.
• Deuteronomy 28:15: This passage outlines the blessings and curses tied to Israel's obedience or disobedience to God, connecting the famine to disobedience.
• Isaiah 1:19-20: The promise of blessing for obedience and the curse for disobedience can be seen as a parallel to the famine in David's time.
• Luke 13:1-3: Jesus mentions the necessity of repentance, suggesting that calamities are often wake-up calls for a nation's moral standing.
• Galatians 6:7: "For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap," tying personal and national sin to eventual consequences.

Thematic Exploration

The themes evident in 2 Samuel 21:1 invite readers to consider how actions impact not only the individual but the entire community. The concept of sin bearing consequences echoes throughout Scripture, encouraging believers to live righteously and uphold justice.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those looking to deepen their understanding of scripture, using a Bible concordance or a cross-reference Bible study guide can be invaluable. These resources help illuminate connections between verses, revealing the richness of biblical themes:

• Utilizing a Bible concordance allows for quick reference to related texts.
• Engaging in cross-referencing Bible study methods can enhance comprehension and retention of biblical principles.
• Exploring Bible reference resources encourages a broader understanding of scripture and its applications.

Conclusion

The inquiry made by David during a time of famine serves as a profound lesson on accountability and justice. Consideration of the themes and connections among different scriptures can lead to a richer understanding of God's Word. By engaging in systematic cross-referencing and leveraging available Bible study tools, readers can uncover the interconnectedness of biblical texts and their implications for modern faith.