2 Samuel 21:16

KJV

And Ishbibenob, which [was] of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose spear [weighed] three hundred [shekels] of brass in weight, he being girded with a new [sword], thought to have slain David.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ishbibenob {H3430}, which was of the sons {H3211} of the giant {H7497}, the weight {H4948} of whose spear {H7013} weighed three {H7969} hundred {H3967} shekels of brass {H5178} in weight {H4948}, he being girded {H2296} with a new {H2319} sword, thought {H559} to have slain {H5221} David {H1732}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yishbi-B'nov, one of the sons of the giant, said that he would kill David; his spear weighed seven pounds, and he was wearing new armor.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Ishbi-benob, a descendant of Rapha, whose bronze spear weighed three hundred shekels and who was bearing a new sword, resolved to kill David.

American Standard Version

and Ishbi-benob, who was of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose spear was three hundred shekels of brass in weight, he being girded with a new sword, thought to have slain David.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 21:16 introduces Ishbibenob, a formidable Philistine giant who, in David's later years, sought to end the king's life. This verse is part of an appendix in 2 Samuel that recounts a series of encounters with Philistine giants, serving to underscore God's unwavering protection over His anointed king, even in moments of extreme vulnerability, and to highlight the valor and loyalty of David's mighty men who ensured his survival and the stability of the kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within an appendix to 2 Samuel, specifically [2 Samuel 21:15-22](/2_samuel/21-15-22 "2 Samuel 21:15-22 - Encounters with Philistine Giants"), which details a series of encounters between David's forces and Philistine giants. This section immediately follows David's profound psalm of deliverance and thanksgiving in [2 Samuel 22](/2_samuel/22 "2 Samuel 22 - David's Song of Deliverance") and precedes his "last words" in [2 Samuel 23:1-7](/2_samuel/23-1-7 "2 Samuel 23:1-7 - David's Last Words") and the comprehensive list of his mighty men in [2 Samuel 23:8-39](/2_samuel/23-8-39 "2 Samuel 23:8-39 - David's Mighty Men"). The placement of these accounts of David's personal vulnerability and the valor of his loyal companions serves multiple narrative and theological purposes. It powerfully reinforces the overarching theme of God's enduring faithfulness to David throughout his entire reign, even as he aged and his physical prowess waned. Furthermore, it vividly demonstrates the persistent and formidable threat posed by Israel's enemies, and crucially, it highlights the indispensable role of David's loyal and courageous companions in securing his kingdom and ensuring his very survival. This narrative contrasts sharply with David's earlier, more active and dominant role in battle (e.g., [1 Samuel 17](/1_samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath")), emphasizing his increasing reliance on others and, ultimately, on divine providence for his protection.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a persistent and formidable adversary of Israel throughout the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Their military might was often spearheaded by exceptionally large warriors, known as the Rephaim or their descendants, who posed a significant and terrifying threat to Israelite sovereignty and morale. The phrase "sons of the giant" (Hebrew: _yalde ha-raphah_) specifically refers to these descendants of the Rephaim, a race of formidable, often gigantic, people mentioned in various parts of the Old Testament, such as in [Deuteronomy 2:11](/deuteronomy/2-11 "Deuteronomy 2:11 - The Rephaim in Moab") and [Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Anakim, Descendants of the Nephilim"). Ishbibenob is presented as a relative of Goliath of Gath, the colossal Philistine warrior whom David famously defeated in his youth, as recounted in [1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath"). This specific encounter with Ishbibenob likely occurred later in David's reign, when he was an older man, perhaps less agile and strong than in his prime. This detail underscores David's human vulnerability and the intense danger he faced, making the swift and decisive intervention of his mighty men, particularly Abishai, all the more crucial and heroic.
* **Key Themes:** The narrative of Ishbibenob's attack on David powerfully illustrates several profound theological and narrative themes. First and foremost, it highlights **God's Enduring Protection** over His anointed king. Despite David's advanced age and the immense, life-threatening danger posed by the giant, divine providence ensures his survival, albeit through the human agency of his loyal men. This demonstrates that God's covenant faithfulness extends throughout all seasons of life, even when human strength wanes, fulfilling promises made to David in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Secondly, the passage emphasizes **The Indispensable Importance of Loyal Companions**. David's life is directly saved by Abishai, one of his valiant mighty men, who intervenes decisively, as detailed in [2 Samuel 21:17](/2_samuel/21-17 "2 Samuel 21:17 - Abishai Saves David"). This underscores the crucial role of faithful friends, allies, and community in protecting and sustaining leaders and individuals in times of crisis, reminding us that we are not meant to face all challenges alone, a principle echoed in [Ecclesiastes 4:9-12](/ecclesiastes/4-9-12 "Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 - The Value of Companionship"). Finally, the encounter with Ishbibenob represents **The Persistent Threat of Evil and Opposition**. Even after years of kingship, numerous victories, and the establishment of the kingdom, David and Israel continued to face formidable enemies. The "sons of the giant" symbolize recurring or lingering threats—whether physical, spiritual, or circumstantial—that require ongoing vigilance and a steadfast reliance on God's strength and the support of His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ishbibenob (Hebrew, _Yishbôw bᵉ-Nôb'_):** This proper name identifies the specific Philistine giant who posed a direct threat to King David. The name, meaning "his dwelling (is) in Nob," might allude to a connection with the priestly city of Nob, perhaps indicating a Philistine presence or conflict in that region, or simply serving as a descriptive identifier for this formidable individual. Its inclusion immediately establishes a specific, named antagonist, intensifying the personal nature of the threat to David.
* **giant (Hebrew, _râphâʼ'_):** This term refers to a member of the Rephaim, an ancient race of formidable, often gigantic, people known for their immense stature and strength. By identifying Ishbibenob as "of the sons of the giant," the text immediately establishes him as a descendant of this powerful lineage, placing him in the same terrifying category as Goliath (cf. [1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath of Gath")). This lineage immediately establishes Ishbibenob as a formidable and terrifying opponent, similar in nature to Goliath, reinforcing the gravity of the threat to David.
* **slain (Hebrew, _nâkâh'_):** This primitive root means "to strike" in various contexts, ranging from a light blow to a severe, even fatal, impact. In this verse, the context clearly indicates a deadly intention: "thought to have slain David." This word emphasizes the lethal aim of Ishbibenob, highlighting that his objective was nothing less than the assassination of the king. It underscores the extreme danger David faced, making the subsequent deliverance all the more significant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ishbibenob, which [was] of the sons of the giant":** This opening clause introduces the antagonist by name, Ishbibenob, and immediately establishes his formidable nature by identifying him as a descendant of the Rephaim, the legendary race of giants. This lineage instantly signals to the reader that David is facing an opponent of extraordinary size and strength, akin to Goliath.
* **"the weight of whose spear [weighed] three hundred [shekels] of brass in weight":** This descriptive phrase provides a concrete, measurable detail that vividly illustrates the giant's immense strength and the sheer destructive potential of his weapon. A spearhead weighing approximately 7.5 to 10 pounds (3.4 to 4.5 kg) would require immense physical power to wield effectively in combat, underscoring the formidable nature of Ishbibenob and the near-insurmountable odds David faced in this personal confrontation.
* **"he being girded with a new [sword]":** This detail suggests Ishbibenob was fully prepared for battle, perhaps even with a weapon recently acquired or specially prepared for this specific encounter. The mention of a "new sword" implies readiness, freshness, and perhaps an unexpected level of threat, indicating a deliberate and well-equipped intent to engage and defeat David. It adds to the sense of a targeted, well-planned attack.
* **"thought to have slain David.":** This final clause reveals the giant's clear, deadly, and personal intent. It highlights that this was not merely a general skirmish but a direct, targeted assassination attempt against King David. The phrase "thought to have slain" implies a near-success, underscoring David's extreme vulnerability and the dramatic urgency of his situation, setting the stage for the crucial intervention that follows.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in [2 Samuel 21:16](/2_samuel/21-16 "2 Samuel 21:16 - Ishbibenob Attempts to Slay David") employs several potent literary devices to heighten the drama and theological impact. **Foreshadowing** is present as the description of David's advanced age and the giant's immense power subtly hints at the king's impending vulnerability and desperate need for rescue, setting the stage for Abishai's heroic intervention in the subsequent verse. There is an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader, aware of David's ultimate survival and God's covenant promises to him, nevertheless experiences the vivid portrayal of the life-threatening danger he faces, making the moment of deliverance more impactful. The detailed description of the spear's extraordinary weight (300 shekels of brass) functions as **Hyperbole** or **Exaggeration** to emphasize the superhuman strength of Ishbibenob and the overwhelming gravity of the threat, thereby making David's deliverance, and Abishai's intervention, appear all the more miraculous and divinely orchestrated. Furthermore, the passage employs **Contrast** by juxtaposing David's current vulnerability in old age with his legendary youthful victory over Goliath, highlighting the cyclical nature of challenges and the enduring need for divine aid across different life stages. Finally, the "giant" himself serves as powerful **Symbolism** of overwhelming, persistent opposition, representing not just a physical foe but any formidable obstacle, spiritual enemy, or entrenched sin that seeks to undermine God's purposes or His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The encounter with Ishbibenob profoundly illustrates the ongoing reality of spiritual warfare and the ever-present need for divine protection, even for those most favored by God. David, the great warrior-king and "man after God's own heart," finds himself in a moment of extreme vulnerability, reminding us that no one, regardless of their spiritual stature or past victories, is beyond the reach of attack or the need for help. This narrative underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, demonstrating that His protection is not contingent on human strength or agility, but on His sovereign will and the instruments He chooses to employ. It also powerfully affirms the importance of community and the body of Christ, as deliverance often comes through the faithful intervention of others whom God uses as His instruments. Just as David's mighty men stood with him, believers are called to bear one another's burdens and stand in solidarity against the "giants" of this world, whether they be spiritual attacks, overwhelming temptations, or life's crushing challenges.

* [1 Samuel 17:45-47](/1_samuel/17-45-47 "1 Samuel 17:45-47 - David's Trust in God Against Goliath"): David's youthful victory over Goliath, where he explicitly declares that "the battle is the Lord's," provides a stark contrast to his vulnerability here, yet highlights God's consistent power in delivering His people from giants, whether through a young shepherd's sling or through loyal companions in old age.
* [Psalm 3:3](/psalms/3-3 "Psalm 3:3 - God as a Shield and Lifter of the Head"): David's own words, "But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head," resonate deeply with this narrative, affirming God's role as his ultimate protector and deliverer in times of distress, even when human strength fails.
* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Many Counselors"): The intervention of Abishai exemplifies the wisdom and safety found in having a multitude of loyal companions and supporters, emphasizing that true strength and victory often come through collective effort and mutual support within a community.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of David's near-death encounter with Ishbibenob serves as a powerful and humbling reminder that even the most seasoned, spiritually mature, and divinely favored individuals are not immune to moments of profound vulnerability and intense opposition. David, the "man after God's own heart" and the mighty warrior, faced a moment where his own strength failed, necessitating the swift intervention of another. This teaches us that reliance on God's providence and the support of our spiritual community is not a sign of weakness, but a recognition of our human limitations and God's design for mutual dependence within the body of Christ. The "giants" in our lives may not be physical beings with heavy spears, but they can manifest as overwhelming challenges, persistent temptations, spiritual attacks, deeply entrenched personal weaknesses, or systemic injustices that seek to "slay" our faith, purpose, or well-being. This story encourages us to remain vigilant, to humbly acknowledge our need for help, and to cultivate relationships with faithful companions who can stand with us in our moments of crisis. It calls us to trust in God's deliverance, knowing that He often works through the hands and hearts of those He places around us, demonstrating His faithfulness even when we are at our weakest.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" (overwhelming challenges, persistent sins, spiritual attacks) are you facing in your life right now that threaten to "slay" your faith or purpose?**
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely solely on your own strength, rather than acknowledging your vulnerability and need for God's help or the support of others?**
* **Who are the "Abishais" in your life—those loyal companions God has placed around you to support and protect you? How can you better appreciate and lean into their support?**
* **How can you, in turn, be an "Abishai" to others, stepping in to help them in their moments of weakness or danger, reflecting the love and support of Christ's body?**

### FAQ
**Who was Ishbibenob and what was his significance?**

Answer: Ishbibenob was a Philistine giant, identified as one of the "sons of the giant" (descendants of the Rephaim), and a relative of Goliath, whom David famously defeated. His significance lies in representing the persistent and formidable threat that the Philistines, and more broadly, the forces of evil, posed to Israel and its king. His attempt to kill David highlights the ongoing spiritual and physical battles that even God's anointed must face, underscoring David's human vulnerability in his later years and the constant need for divine protection and the support of loyal companions, as seen in [2 Samuel 21:17](/2_samuel/21-17 "2 Samuel 21:17 - Abishai Saves David").

**Why was David in such danger, given his past victories and reputation as a warrior?**

Answer: David's vulnerability in this encounter is attributed to his advanced age, as indicated by the context of his later reign. While David was a formidable warrior in his prime, the passage subtly suggests that he was no longer as agile or strong as he once was, making him susceptible to such a direct and powerful attack. This incident serves to emphasize that even the most experienced and divinely favored individuals can face moments of weakness or be caught off guard, highlighting the need for God's continued protection and the support of loyal companions. It also underscores that God's deliverance is not always through individual prowess but often through the community He provides, demonstrating His faithfulness through various means (cf. [Psalm 18](/psalms/18 "Psalm 18 - David's Psalm of Deliverance")).

**What is the significance of the spear weighing 300 shekels of brass?**

Answer: The detail that Ishbibenob's spear weighed "three hundred shekels of brass" (approximately 7.5 to 10 pounds or 3.4 to 4.5 kg) is highly significant. It serves to emphasize the immense physical strength of the giant and the formidable nature of the weapon he wielded. This specific detail is not merely incidental; it vividly portrays the gravity of the threat to David's life and the extraordinary power of his adversary. It underscores that this was no ordinary opponent or weapon, making David's deliverance, and Abishai's intervention, all the more remarkable and a testament to God's protective hand over His anointed king (cf. [Psalm 121:7-8](/psalms/121-7-8 "Psalm 121:7-8 - The Lord Will Keep You From All Harm")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While David, as king, serves as a type of Christ, his vulnerability in [2 Samuel 21:16](/2_samuel/21-16 "2 Samuel 21:16 - Ishbibenob Attempts to Slay David") actually points beyond himself to the need for a greater, more perfect King who would not falter. David's near-defeat underscores the limitations of even the greatest human leaders and their ultimate reliance on God for salvation. In stark contrast, Jesus Christ is the true and ultimate King who faced the ultimate "giant"—not a physical foe, but the spiritual powers of sin, death, and Satan. Unlike David, who needed to be rescued by another, Christ willingly laid down His life, confronting these enemies head-on and triumphing over them through His crucifixion and resurrection. He is the divine "Abishai" who did not merely save His people from a physical threat, but from eternal death and spiritual bondage, as [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death") powerfully declares: "that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery." His victory was complete and decisive, accomplished through His own perfect sacrifice, requiring no intervention from others. Through Christ, believers are empowered to overcome the "giants" in their own lives, knowing that the Son of God appeared to "destroy the works of the devil" ([1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "1 John 3:8 - The Son of God Appeared to Destroy the Works of the Devil")), and that He disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")). He is the King who always prevails, securing eternal salvation for His people.

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

2 Samuel 21:18

And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with the Philistines at Gob: then Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Saph, which [was] of the sons of the giant.

2 Samuel 21:20

And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of [great] stature, that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant.

2 Samuel 5:18

The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.

Deuteronomy 2:21

A people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims; but the LORD destroyed them before them; and they succeeded them, and dwelt in their stead:

Deuteronomy 3:11

For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold, his bedstead [was] a bedstead of iron; [is] it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits [was] the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man.

Genesis 14:5

And in the fourteenth year came Chedorlaomer, and the kings that [were] with him, and smote the Rephaims in Ashteroth Karnaim, and the Zuzims in Ham, and the Emims in Shaveh Kiriathaim,

Deuteronomy 2:10

The Emims dwelt therein in times past, a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims;