2 Samuel 21:22

These four were born to the giant in Gath, and fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

These four {H702} were born {H3205} to the giant {H7497} in Gath {H1661}, and fell {H5307} by the hand {H3027} of David {H1732}, and by the hand {H3027} of his servants {H5650}.

These four were sons of the giant in Gat; they fell at the hands of David and his servants.

So these four descendants of Rapha in Gath fell at the hands of David and his servants.

These four were born to the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

Commentary

2 Samuel 21:22 concludes a significant narrative about the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, specifically detailing the defeat of formidable giants associated with Gath.

Context of 2 Samuel 21:22

This verse serves as a summary statement for the preceding accounts in 2 Samuel 21:15-21, which describe four distinct encounters where David's mighty men, and David himself in one instance (though he was nearly overcome), defeated Philistine giants. These battles occurred during David's reign, long after his famous victory over Goliath. The chapter highlights the continued threat posed by these powerful adversaries and God's faithfulness in granting victory to Israel through David and his valiant warriors. The events here are also paralleled in 1 Chronicles 20:4-8.

Key Themes and Messages

  • God's Deliverance Through His Servants: The verse emphasizes that these giants "fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants." This underscores God's ability to work through His chosen leaders and their dedicated followers to overcome seemingly insurmountable foes. It's a testament to the fact that God uses various individuals, not just the king, to fulfill His purposes.
  • The End of a Threat: The repeated mention of giants from Gath, the hometown of Goliath (1 Samuel 17:4), signifies the diminishing power and eventual eradication of this specific, fearsome lineage of Philistine warriors. This brought a measure of peace and security to Israel.
  • David's Enduring Legacy: Although David himself wasn't the sole slayer in all these encounters, the victories are attributed to him and his men, cementing his legacy as a divinely appointed leader who brought stability and triumph to Israel. His kingdom was secured not just by his personal prowess but by the strength and loyalty of those around him.

Linguistic Insights

The term "giant" in this context translates from the Hebrew rapha (or raphah, plural rephaim), referring to a race of formidable, often large-statured people. They are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as ancient inhabitants of Canaan and surrounding regions, often associated with a past era of powerful, intimidating figures. The consistent defeat of these Rephaim by Israel underscores God's power to overcome even the most daunting adversaries.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Samuel 21:22 offers several insights:

  • God Uses Many Hands: Just as David's servants played crucial roles, God often uses a collective of individuals, each with their unique strengths, to accomplish His will. Our battles, whether spiritual or practical, are often won through community and mutual support, not just individual effort.
  • Overcoming Persistent Obstacles: The Philistine giants represented a persistent threat to Israel. Similarly, we may face recurring challenges or "giants" in our lives—habits, fears, or spiritual opposition. This verse reminds us that through God's power, and often with the help of others, these obstacles can be overcome.
  • Victory is Assured in Christ: While the physical battles of Israel are historical, they foreshadow the ultimate spiritual victory achieved through Christ. Just as the giants fell, so too have the powers of sin and death been conquered by Jesus's work on the cross. Colossians 2:15 speaks of Christ disarming principalities and powers, leading them in triumph.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 20:8 (5 votes)

    These were born unto the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

  • Romans 8:31 (4 votes)

    ¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

  • Jeremiah 9:23 (3 votes)

    ¶ Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man] glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches:

  • Psalms 108:13 (2 votes)

    Through God we shall do valiantly: for he [it is that] shall tread down our enemies.

  • Joshua 14:12 (2 votes)

    Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: if so be the LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.

  • Romans 8:37 (2 votes)

    Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:11 (2 votes)

    ¶ I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.