2 Samuel 21:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 21:14 mean?

2 Samuel 21:14 describes how the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan were buried in the territory of Benjamin, at Zelah, in the tomb of Saul’s father Kish. After following the king’s instructions to do this, God responded favorably to the land.

This verse comes near the end of a story where King David seeks to end a famine by making things right after Saul’s earlier wrongdoing. The burial of Saul and Jonathan’s bones, along with others, is carried out in Benjamin’s territory, showing respect for the family. The verse ends by noting that God was “intreated” for the land, meaning God listened to the prayers for relief, and the famine was lifted.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 21:14

• אֶרֶץ (ʾerets, “country” or “land”): This word appears twice in the verse, first describing the territory of Benjamin and then referring to the whole land that was suffering. It highlights both the specific family place and the broader national setting.
• קָבַר (qāvar, “buried”): The act of burial here is not just about disposing of remains but about honoring Saul and Jonathan properly, which was important for resolving the crisis.
• עָתַר (ʿātar, “intreated”): This word means God was petitioned or appealed to, and He responded. It signals that the actions taken brought about God’s favor and the end of the famine.

Why 2 Samuel 21:14 matters

• 2 Samuel 21:14 clarifies that the famine was not just a natural disaster but was connected to unresolved wrongs from Saul’s reign; proper burial and justice were needed for God’s blessing to return.
• The verse emphasizes the importance of honoring the dead and fulfilling family and tribal duties, which were deeply significant in ancient Israel.
• This verse connects the resolution of a national crisis to obedience and respect for God’s commands, showing how leadership and faithfulness affected the whole community.