So Saul died, and his three sons, and all his house died together.

1 CHRONICLES 10:6KJV
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1 Chronicles 10:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 10:6 mean?

1 Chronicles 10:6 states that Saul, Israel’s first king, his three sons, and all those belonging to his household died together in the same battle. This verse marks the complete downfall of Saul’s family line as rulers of Israel.

The verse is part of a historical account written by the Chronicler, summarizing the tragic end of Saul’s reign during a battle with the Philistines. The focus is on the total loss suffered by Saul’s house, setting the stage for a new chapter in Israel’s history with the rise of David as king.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 10:6

  • "died" (מֵת, mēt): This word appears twice in the verse, emphasizing the finality and completeness of the deaths—it was not just Saul, but his sons and household as well.
  • "house" (בַּיִת, bayit): In this context, "house" refers not just to Saul’s immediate family but to his entire royal lineage and those closely associated with him.
  • "together" (יַחְדָּו, yaḥdāv): This word highlights that Saul and his family perished at the same time and place, stressing the totality of the event.

Why 1 Chronicles 10:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Saul’s entire royal line was wiped out in a single event, not just Saul himself, which explains the complete transition of kingship to David.
  • The emphasis on "together" shows the severity of the defeat and the end of Saul’s dynasty, underscoring the turning point in Israel’s leadership.
  • Understanding this verse helps readers see why the Chronicler moves directly from Saul’s death to David’s rise, as there were no surviving heirs from Saul’s house to contest the throne.

Where else these words appear

“together” Hebrew H3162 · used in 139 verses

  • Genesis 13:6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
  • Job 24:17 For the morning is to them even as the shadow of death: if one know them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death.
  • Isaiah 41:1 Keep silence before me, O islands; and let the people renew their strength: let them come near; then let them speak: let us come near together to judgment.