2 Samuel 2:5

KJV

And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead, and said unto them, Blessed [be] ye of the LORD, that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, [even] unto Saul, and have buried him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} sent {H7971} messengers {H4397} unto the men {H582} of Jabeshgilead {H3003}{H1568}, and said {H559} unto them, Blessed {H1288} be ye of the LORD {H3068}, that ye have shewed {H6213} this kindness {H2617} unto your lord {H113}, even unto Saul {H7586}, and have buried {H6912} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

So David sent messengers to the men of Yavesh-Gil'ad with this message: "May you be blessed by ADONAI, because you showed this kindness to your lord, Sha'ul, and buried him.

Berean Standard Bible

So David sent messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead to tell them, “The LORD bless you, because you showed this kindness to Saul your lord when you buried him.

American Standard Version

And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabesh-gilead, and said unto them, Blessed be ye of Jehovah, that ye have showed this kindness unto your lord, even unto Saul, and have buried him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Newly anointed king over Judah, David immediately sends messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead to commend and bless them. This commendation is for their courageous and loyal act of retrieving and honorably burying the bodies of King Saul and his sons, which had been desecrated by the Philistines. David's swift recognition of their steadfast kindness demonstrates his wisdom, gratitude, and unifying leadership as he begins to consolidate his reign over a fractured Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The immediate literary context of [2 Samuel 2:5](/2_samuel/2-5 "2 Samuel 2:5 - David's Blessing to Jabesh-Gilead") follows a pivotal and tragic transition in Israel's history. The preceding chapter, [1 Samuel 31](/1_samuel/31 "1 Samuel 31 - The Death of Saul"), recounts the devastating defeat of Israel by the Philistines on Mount Gilboa, culminating in the tragic deaths of King Saul and his three sons, including Jonathan, David's beloved friend. The Philistines then desecrated their bodies, displaying them on the wall of Beth-shan. Upon hearing of this disgrace, the men of Jabesh-gilead bravely undertook a perilous journey to retrieve and honorably bury the fallen king and his sons. [2 Samuel 1](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel 1 - David's Lament for Saul and Jonathan") then details David's profound lament for Saul and Jonathan, showcasing his genuine grief and respect for the Lord's anointed, even his adversary. This sets the stage for David's anointing as king over Judah in [2 Samuel 2:1-4](/2_samuel/2-1-4 "2 Samuel 2:1-4 - David Anointed King in Hebron"), making his immediate act of blessing Jabesh-gilead in [2 Samuel 2:5](/2_samuel/2-5 "2 Samuel 2:5 - David's Blessing to Jabesh-Gilead") a crucial first step in his new reign, demonstrating his leadership style and commitment to unity rather than vengeance or political opportunism.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Historically, Saul had previously delivered Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites in a decisive victory (as recorded in [1 Samuel 11](/1_samuel/11 "1 Samuel 11 - Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")), establishing a strong bond of loyalty and gratitude between the city and the king. This act of burial was not merely a humanitarian gesture but a culturally significant act of honor in the ancient Near East, especially given the public humiliation inflicted by the Philistines who had displayed Saul's body on the wall of Beth-shan. In these cultures, a proper burial was paramount for the dignity of the deceased and their family, and the desecration of a body was a grave insult, intended to shame the fallen and their people. David's recognition of their bravery and loyalty was also politically astute, as he was consolidating his power and needed to demonstrate that his reign would be one of justice, respect, and unity, even for those who had previously served Saul. This move helped to bridge the divide between the northern tribes, who had been loyal to Saul, and Judah, which had just anointed David.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within [2 Samuel](/2_samuel "The Book of 2 Samuel"). Firstly, it highlights **David's wise and unifying leadership**. Unlike Saul, who often acted impulsively and was plagued by insecurity, David demonstrates a measured, grateful, and politically astute approach, immediately reaching out to affirm loyalty rather than punish perceived opposition. His actions here set a precedent for a reign characterized by justice and righteousness, as later summarized in [2 Samuel 8:15](/2_samuel/8-15 "2 Samuel 8:15 - David's Righteous Reign"). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **steadfast loyalty and kindness (חֶסֶד, *chesed*)**. The men of Jabesh-gilead exemplify this by remembering Saul's past kindness and acting on it, even at personal risk. David's blessing validates this virtue, emphasizing its importance in the emerging kingdom. Thirdly, the passage reinforces the biblical principle of **respect for the Lord's anointed and the deceased**. Despite Saul's relentless pursuit of David, David consistently honors Saul's position and person, even in death, setting a moral standard for his reign and for the nation. This act foreshadows David's ongoing commitment to justice and righteousness throughout his kingship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blessed (Hebrew, _bârak_):** This primitive root means "to kneel," and by implication, "to bless God (as an act of adoration)" or "man (as a benefit)." When David says, "Blessed be ye of the LORD," he is not merely offering a human commendation but invoking God's favor and divine well-being upon the men of Jabesh-gilead. This blessing carries significant theological weight, indicating that their act of loyalty and honor was pleasing in the sight of God, and therefore deserving of divine reward and protection.
* **Kindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd_):** This rich Hebrew term denotes far more than simple benevolence; it encompasses loyal love, steadfast faithfulness, covenantal commitment, and enduring devotion. By using *chesed*, David acknowledges that the men of Jabesh-gilead's act was not a casual favor but a profound expression of deep-seated loyalty and gratitude rooted in a sense of duty and remembrance of Saul's past deliverance of their city ([1 Samuel 11](/1_samuel/11 "1 Samuel 11 - Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")). It signifies an active, enduring, and often unmerited, demonstration of fidelity.
* **Lord (Hebrew, _ʼâdôwn_):** This term refers to a sovereign, controller, master, or owner, applicable to both human and divine authority. In this context, it refers to Saul as "your lord," acknowledging his former status as their king. David's use of this term validates the men's loyalty to Saul, demonstrating David's respect for the divine institution of kingship and his commitment to honoring the past, even amidst a transition of power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead":** This immediate and proactive action by David, upon hearing of the men's courageous deed, highlights his strategic and compassionate leadership. It demonstrates his attentiveness to events throughout Israel and his desire to establish positive relationships, especially with those who had shown loyalty to the previous king, rather than viewing them as adversaries.
* **"and said unto them, Blessed [be] ye of the LORD":** David's commendation is not merely from himself but invokes the divine blessing. This elevates the significance of their act, placing it under God's approval. It also subtly positions David as a leader who operates under divine authority and seeks God's favor for his people, contrasting with Saul's later disregard for divine commands and loss of divine favor.
* **"that ye have shewed this kindness unto your lord, [even] unto Saul":** David explicitly identifies the recipient of their "kindness" (*chesed*) as Saul, acknowledging his former status as their king. This is a crucial political and spiritual move, as it validates the loyalty shown to the previous anointed king, demonstrating David's respect for the divine institution of kingship and his commitment to honoring the past, even amidst a transition of power. It signifies David's magnanimity and his desire for national unity.
* **"and have buried him":** This phrase directly refers to the specific, courageous act of retrieving and burying Saul's body and those of his sons. This act was dangerous, defied the Philistines, and restored dignity to the fallen king, making it a profound expression of loyalty and honor in ancient culture. David's direct affirmation of this deed underscores its importance and his deep appreciation for their bravery and faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Commendation** is central, as David publicly praises the men of Jabesh-gilead, affirming their noble actions and setting a tone for his reign. The use of the term *chesed* for "kindness" functions as **thematic resonance**, linking this specific act to a broader biblical concept of loyal love and covenant faithfulness that is foundational to God's character and expected of His people. Furthermore, David's invocation of a **divine blessing** ("Blessed be ye of the LORD") serves as both a literal blessing and a **rhetorical strategy**, lending divine authority to his words and reinforcing the idea that their actions were righteous in God's eyes. This also subtly establishes David's own legitimacy as a leader who operates under God's favor, contrasting with the tragic end of Saul, who had lost divine favor. The narrative also employs **foreshadowing**, as David's wise and unifying leadership here sets the stage for the eventual consolidation of all Israel under his reign.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the biblical value of loyal love (*chesed*) and respect, even for those who may have been adversaries or have fallen from grace. David's actions demonstrate a leadership principle rooted in divine wisdom: honoring those who show faithfulness, regardless of their past allegiances. This act not only solidifies David's position but also sets a moral precedent for his kingdom, emphasizing unity and the recognition of righteous deeds. It reflects a theology where God blesses those who act with integrity and compassion, even in difficult circumstances, mirroring His own steadfast love. David's magnanimity here is a testament to his character as "a man after God's own heart."

* [1 Samuel 11:1-11](/1_samuel/11-1-11 "1 Samuel 11:1-11 - Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")
* [Proverbs 24:17-18](/proverbs/24-17-18 "Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do Not Rejoice When Your Enemy Falls")
* [Romans 13:7](/romans/13-7 "Romans 13:7 - Give Honor to Whom Honor Is Due")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's response to the men of Jabesh-gilead offers a powerful model for our own lives and leadership today. In a world often characterized by division, resentment, and a tendency to disparage those who have fallen or are perceived as rivals, David chooses a path of honor, gratitude, and blessing. His act transcends personal grievances and political expediency, focusing instead on the intrinsic value of loyalty, courage, and respect for human dignity. This challenges us to consider how we respond to the actions of others, particularly those who may have been difficult or antagonistic. Are we quick to commend genuine acts of kindness and faithfulness, even when they benefit someone we might not personally favor? Do we seek to build bridges of honor rather than walls of animosity? David's example encourages us to cultivate a spirit of appreciation, to acknowledge noble deeds, and to speak words of blessing that foster unity and reflect God's own character of *chesed*. It reminds us that true leadership, especially in a spiritual context, prioritizes reconciliation and the affirmation of virtue, rather than perpetuating conflict or holding grudges.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does David's response to Jabesh-gilead challenge your own tendencies to hold grudges or focus on past conflicts, especially with those who may have opposed you?**
* **In what ways can you actively seek to recognize and affirm acts of loyalty and kindness in your community or workplace, even from unexpected or "rival" sources?**
* **What does David's invocation of "Blessed be ye of the LORD" teach us about the spiritual dimension of honoring others and seeking God's favor upon them?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important for the men of Jabesh-gilead to bury Saul?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a proper burial was a profound act of respect and dignity for the deceased. To leave a body unburied or desecrated was considered a grave dishonor, often reserved for the worst criminals or enemies. The Philistines had displayed Saul's body and armor in their temples and on the wall of Beth-shan ([1 Samuel 31:9-10](/1_samuel/31-9-10 "1 Samuel 31:9-10 - Philistines Desecrate Saul's Body")), which was an ultimate act of humiliation for the fallen king and for Israel. The men of Jabesh-gilead, remembering Saul's past deliverance of their city from the Ammonites ([1 Samuel 11](/1_samuel/11 "1 Samuel 11 - Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")), undertook a perilous journey to retrieve the bodies and provide a respectful burial, thereby restoring honor to Saul and, by extension, to Israel. David's commendation acknowledges the immense significance and bravery of their act, recognizing it as an act of profound loyalty and cultural duty.

**Did David have a personal connection to Jabesh-gilead?**

Answer: While there's no direct record of a personal connection between David and Jabesh-gilead prior to this event, the city had a strong historical bond with King Saul. Saul had famously rescued them from the Ammonites early in his reign ([1 Samuel 11](/1_samuel/11 "1 Samuel 11 - Saul Rescues Jabesh-Gilead")), leading to their deep loyalty to him. David's act of sending messengers to them was a strategic and compassionate move. It demonstrated his respect for those who had shown loyalty to the previous king, signaled his intention to rule justly over all Israel, and helped to bridge the gap between Saul's former kingdom and his newly established reign in Judah. It was an act of statesmanship that honored past allegiances while inviting future unity under his leadership, laying groundwork for his eventual kingship over all twelve tribes.

**What does David's blessing "of the LORD" signify?**

Answer: When David says, "Blessed be ye of the LORD," he is not simply offering a human commendation but invoking divine favor upon the men of Jabesh-gilead. This signifies that their courageous and loyal act was not only commendable in human eyes but was also pleasing to God. It suggests that their *chesed* (loyal kindness) was a reflection of God's own character and therefore worthy of divine blessing and protection. This invocation also subtly reinforces David's own position as God's chosen king, operating under divine authority and seeking God's blessing for his people, in contrast to Saul, who had lost God's favor due to disobedience. It underscores the theological dimension of their actions and David's response, aligning human virtue with divine approval.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The loyal kindness (*chesed*) shown by the men of Jabesh-gilead and David's gracious response foreshadow a deeper, ultimate expression of divine *chesed* found in Jesus Christ. David, as a king who honors loyalty and seeks to unify a divided kingdom, serves as a type of the true King, Jesus, who perfectly embodies loyal love and brings ultimate reconciliation. Just as David blessed those who honored a fallen king, Christ blesses those who, through faith, honor Him, the resurrected King. The men of Jabesh-gilead's brave act of restoring dignity to Saul's body, even in death, points to the profound dignity restored to humanity through Christ's own death and resurrection. He did not merely honor the dead; He conquered death itself, offering eternal life and true dignity to all who believe, as promised in [John 11:25-26](/john/11-25-26 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life"). His ultimate act of *chesed* on the cross, where He laid down His life for His enemies ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")), far surpasses any human kindness, offering forgiveness and reconciliation that bridges the chasm of sin and brings us into a covenant relationship with God. Through Christ, we receive the ultimate blessing of the Lord, not for our acts of loyalty to a fallen king, but for God's unfailing love and Christ's perfect sacrifice, fulfilling the promise of a blessed people under a righteous King, as foretold in passages like [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign") and realized in the New Covenant established by His blood ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, the Mediator of a Better Covenant")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 23:21

And Saul said, Blessed [be] ye of the LORD; for ye have compassion on me.

Psalms 115:15

Ye [are] blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.

1 Samuel 24:19

For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day.

Ruth 2:20

And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed [be] he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man [is] near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.

1 Samuel 25:32

¶ And David said to Abigail, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me:

1 Samuel 25:33

And blessed [be] thy advice, and blessed [be] thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to [shed] blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.

Ruth 3:10

And he said, Blessed [be] thou of the LORD, my daughter: [for] thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich.