2 Samuel 21:14: “They buried the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan in the tomb of Saul’s father Kish, at Zela in Benjamin, and did everything the king commanded. After that, God answered prayer in behalf of the land.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the bones of Saul and Jonathan are given a proper burial in the family tomb of Saul’s father, Kish, located in Zela, which was part of the tribe of Benjamin. This act fulfills the necessary requirements of honoring the dead and closing a chapter of shame and tragedy. The verse also notes that the people followed King David’s orders and ensured that Saul’s family received a respectful burial. Significantly, once this act of justice and reconciliation was completed, God responded by lifting the famine that had plagued the land, signifying that divine justice had been satisfied and peace was restored to Israel.
Historical Context
This verse concludes the story of a prolonged famine in Israel, which had occurred due to Saul’s violation of a covenant with the Gibeonites. After David took measures to address the wrong by handing over some of Saul’s descendants for execution, the final act of justice involved honoring the bones of Saul and Jonathan. In ancient Israel, proper burial was an essential cultural and religious act. The burial at Zela reflects the need to respect the family and lineage, even in the face of past sin and judgment. The reference to God answering prayer indicates that Israel’s troubles, caused by Saul’s sin, had come to an end with this final act of reconciliation.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse speaks to the importance of both justice and mercy in resolving human sin. Saul’s sins against the Gibeonites required justice, but the burial of Saul and Jonathan’s bones symbolizes an act of closure and restoration. By properly burying Saul and Jonathan, David demonstrates that even in the aftermath of judgment, there is room for dignity and respect. The fact that God answers the people’s prayers after these actions shows that when justice is combined with mercy and respect for human life, God’s favor and blessings are restored. This reflects a broader biblical theme of reconciliation between God and His people.
Literary Analysis
The narrative closes with a sense of resolution and peace. The phrase “God answered prayer in behalf of the land” signals that the period of suffering has come to an end. The burial of Saul and Jonathan serves as a physical and symbolic act of putting the past to rest, both literally and spiritually. The mention of Kish’s tomb links Saul’s death back to his origins, providing a sense of completion to the story. David’s role in orchestrating the burial also shows his continued leadership in guiding the nation through justice and mercy.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 50:12-14: This passage records the respectful burial of Jacob in the family tomb, highlighting the importance of honoring one’s ancestors.
- Deuteronomy 21:22-23: These verses emphasize the need for proper burial after an execution, showing the importance of restoring dignity, even in death.
- Isaiah 61:3: Speaks of God giving a “crown of beauty instead of ashes,” reflecting the idea of restoration and honor after a time of judgment or mourning.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that reconciliation, justice, and mercy are all necessary for peace and restoration. David’s actions in ensuring a proper burial for Saul and Jonathan teach us about the importance of honoring others, even after they have sinned or failed. The restoration of peace to the land following this act of closure also teaches that when we seek reconciliation and act with integrity, we can experience God’s blessings. Christians are called to be agents of peace, bringing closure and healing where there has been division or wrongdoing.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His desire for both justice and reconciliation. Even though Saul’s actions led to judgment, God’s response to the final act of burying Saul and Jonathan shows that His love includes restoration. By answering the prayers of the people and lifting the famine, God demonstrates that He is not only just but also merciful and compassionate. His love desires healing for the land and His people, and He responds when there is an effort to restore broken relationships.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The burial of Saul and Jonathan points to the ultimate reconciliation that Jesus Christ brings through His death and resurrection. Just as David’s actions brought peace and closure after a time of judgment, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross brings lasting peace between humanity and God. Christ’s death took on the consequences of sin, offering believers the opportunity for reconciliation and new life (2 Corinthians 5:18). The burial of Saul and Jonathan symbolizes the end of one chapter and the beginning of restoration, much like how Christ’s resurrection signals the end of sin’s reign and the beginning of new life in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this passage challenge your understanding of reconciliation and the importance of bringing closure to unresolved issues?
- What steps can you take to honor others, even after experiencing difficult situations or conflicts?
- How does God’s response to Israel’s prayers after this act of justice and mercy encourage you in seeking peace and healing in your own life?