2 Samuel 21:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 21:6 mean?

2 Samuel 21:6 describes a request made to King David that seven male descendants of Saul be handed over to be executed in Gibeah, Saul’s hometown, as an act of justice before the LORD. King David agrees to this request, granting permission for the men to be given up.

This verse takes place during a time of famine, which the people believed was a result of Saul’s earlier wrongdoing against the Gibeonites. The Gibeonites ask David for the lives of seven of Saul’s sons as reparation. The verse shows David’s response, highlighting the seriousness of ancient justice and the significance of Saul’s legacy in Israel’s history.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 21:6

• “Seven” (שִׁבְעָה, shiv‘ah): The number seven often symbolizes completeness or totality in Hebrew thought, suggesting the Gibeonites wanted a full measure of justice.
• “Delivered” (נָתַן, natan): This word means “to give” or “to hand over.” Here, it emphasizes the act of surrendering Saul’s descendants, not just physically but as a formal, legal act.
• “Hang them up” (יָקַע, yaqa‘): This verb means “to hang” or “to expose.” It refers to a public execution, which in this context is meant to be a visible act before the LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH).
• “Choose” (בָּחַר, bachar): The verse notes that Saul was the one “whom the LORD did choose,” reminding the reader that Saul’s family had a special status, making this act especially significant.

Why 2 Samuel 21:6 matters

• This verse clarifies that the famine was believed to be a direct result of Saul’s actions, and that justice was sought through a specific, public act involving his descendants.
• The mention of Gibeah and Saul’s chosen status highlights the weight of what is being asked—this is not a random punishment but one tied to Saul’s unique role in Israel’s history.
• Understanding the original Hebrew words helps show the legal and ritual seriousness of the request, and why David’s agreement is such a significant moment in the narrative.