2 Samuel 3:7: “Now Saul had had a concubine named Rizpah daughter of Aiah. And Ish-Bosheth said to Abner, ‘Why did you sleep with my father’s concubine?’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Ish-Bosheth, Saul’s son and the current king of Israel’s northern tribes, accuses Abner, the commander of Saul’s army, of sleeping with Saul’s concubine, Rizpah. In the ancient world, taking a king’s concubine was seen as a challenge to that king’s authority. Ish-Bosheth interprets Abner’s actions as a direct threat to his own position as king. Abner, however, reacts with anger to the accusation, marking the beginning of a major shift in his loyalties, which would eventually lead him to side with David instead of Ish-Bosheth. This verse highlights the growing tensions within Saul’s house and sets the stage for Abner’s defection.
Historical Context
In the ancient Near East, concubines were often considered part of a king’s household, and to claim them after the king’s death was seen as a way to assert one’s claim to the throne. Rizpah, as Saul’s concubine, held a status within the royal family, and Abner’s alleged involvement with her could be viewed as an act of political ambition. Ish-Bosheth’s reign was already fragile, as he was a puppet king set up by Abner. This accusation of impropriety against Abner would cause a rift between them, weakening the house of Saul further and eventually leading Abner to offer his support to David.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the consequences of unchecked ambition and power struggles. Ish-Bosheth’s accusation, whether true or false, reflects the paranoia and insecurity of his reign. Meanwhile, Abner’s growing ambition points to the dangers of seeking power through manipulation. Both men are caught up in a political struggle that contrasts with David’s patient reliance on God’s timing. Theologically, this passage reminds us that human attempts to grasp power outside of God’s will often lead to conflict and division.
Literary Analysis
This verse is a turning point in the narrative. The accusation against Abner is not just about personal morality but is deeply political. The brief mention of Rizpah, Saul’s concubine, is significant, as she would later play a more prominent role in another story (2 Samuel 21:10-14). The tension between Ish-Bosheth and Abner heightens the internal conflict within the house of Saul, which contrasts with the growing strength and unity in David’s camp. This narrative tension builds toward Abner’s eventual betrayal of Ish-Bosheth and his alliance with David.
Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Samuel 16:21-22: When Absalom sleeps with David’s concubines, it is seen as a public claim to his father’s throne, highlighting the political significance of concubines.
- 2 Samuel 21:10-14: Rizpah later mourns the deaths of her sons, demonstrating her loyalty to Saul’s family.
- 1 Kings 2:22: Solomon perceives a request for Abishag, a former concubine of David, as a threat to his reign, showing the continuing association between concubines and royal succession.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, this verse serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of jealousy, ambition, and power struggles. Whether in politics, relationships, or workplaces, the desire for control often leads to division and conflict. This story also encourages believers to trust in God’s timing and not to force their way into positions of power or authority. Just as David waited for God to establish him as king, Christians are called to trust in God’s plan for their lives rather than seek power through manipulative means.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Even in the midst of human conflict and political intrigue, God’s love remains constant. Though Abner and Ish-Bosheth are caught up in their own ambitions, God’s plan for Israel continues to unfold according to His purposes. God’s love is evident in how He patiently works through flawed individuals to bring about His greater plan, ultimately leading to the establishment of David’s kingdom and, later, the coming of Jesus Christ.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights the contrast between human ambition and Jesus Christ’s humble kingship. While Abner and Ish-Bosheth vie for power, Jesus, though He is the rightful King, came not to seize power but to serve (Philippians 2:5-8). The political struggles of Saul’s house point forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise in Jesus, the descendant of David, who would establish an eternal kingdom built not on human manipulation but on love, humility, and sacrifice (Luke 1:32-33).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can we guard against ambition and jealousy in our own relationships, whether in families, workplaces, or communities?
- What does this story teach us about the importance of trusting in God’s timing and His plans for our lives?
- How does Jesus’ example of servant leadership challenge our understanding of power and authority in today’s world?