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2 Samuel 1:10

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So I stood upon him, and slew him, because I was sure that he could not live after that he was fallen: and I took the crown that [was] upon his head, and the bracelet that [was] on his arm, and have brought them hither unto my lord.

So I stood {H5975} upon him, and slew {H4191} him, because I was sure {H3045} that he could not live {H2421} after {H310} that he was fallen {H5307}: and I took {H3947} the crown {H5145} that was upon his head {H7218}, and the bracelet {H685} that was on his arm {H2220}, and have brought {H935} them hither unto my lord {H113}.

So I stood next to him and killed him, because I was sure he was so badly wounded that he couldn't live. I took the crown that was on his head and the bracelet on his arm and have brought them here to my lord."

So I stood over him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord.”

So I stood beside him, and slew him, because I was sure that he could not live after that he was fallen: and I took the crown that was upon his head, and the bracelet that was on his arm, and have brought them hither unto my lord.

Commentary

In 2 Samuel 1:10, an Amalekite delivers a dramatic and self-serving account to David concerning the death of King Saul. This verse is central to the Amalekite's fabricated or exaggerated story, claiming he personally administered the final blow to Saul and took the royal insignia as proof.

Context

This verse occurs immediately after the Amalekite messenger informs David of the Philistine victory over Israel and the deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan. The Amalekite, seeking favor and reward from David, presents himself as the one who "finished off" the mortally wounded Saul on Mount Gilboa. This account directly contradicts the narrative found in 1 Samuel 31:4-5, where Saul falls on his own sword after his armor-bearer refuses to kill him. Scholars widely believe the Amalekite's story is a fabrication, intended to impress David by presenting himself as a bringer of good news and a facilitator of David's ascension to the throne.

Key Themes

  • The Amalekite's Deception: The primary theme is the Amalekite's bold lie or exaggeration, motivated by the hope of reward from David. He misjudged David's character, expecting joy at Saul's demise rather than profound grief.
  • The Death of King Saul: Regardless of the Amalekite's role, the verse confirms the tragic end of Israel's first king, a pivotal moment in the nation's history and for David's future kingship.
  • Symbols of Kingship: The "crown" and "bracelet" mentioned were significant royal insignia, tangible proof of Saul's status and, in the Amalekite's mind, a transfer of authority. These items were likely taken from Saul's body by the Amalekite, whether or not he killed him.
  • Misunderstanding David's Heart: The Amalekite assumed David would rejoice at Saul's death, particularly given Saul's past attempts on David's life. However, David consistently showed respect for Saul as God's anointed, even in his persecution.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "slew" (וָאֲמֹתְתֵהוּ - va'amot'tehu) implies a decisive act of killing. The Amalekite's claim is direct and unambiguous, emphasizing his perceived role in Saul's demise. The term for "crown" (נֵזֶר - nezer) can also refer to a diadem or a consecration, highlighting its significance as a symbol of royal authority and divine appointment.

Strategic Cross-References

  • For the contrasting account of Saul's death, see 1 Samuel 31:4.
  • David's severe reaction to this Amalekite's claim, punishing him for laying a hand on "the Lord's anointed," is recorded in 2 Samuel 1:14-16. This highlights David's respect for God's chosen leader, even when Saul was his adversary.
  • David's lament over Saul and Jonathan, known as "The Song of the Bow," further demonstrates his genuine grief and respect for the fallen king in 2 Samuel 1:19-27.

Practical Application

This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of several principles:

  1. The Danger of Deception: Lying for personal gain, even when perceived as beneficial, often leads to severe consequences. The Amalekite's false narrative backfired spectacularly.
  2. Respect for Authority: David's unwavering respect for Saul as God's anointed, despite personal grievances, sets a profound example. It underscores the biblical principle of respecting those in authority, even when they are flawed or hostile, as seen in Romans 13:1.
  3. Understanding True Character: The Amalekite misjudged David's character, believing he would celebrate an enemy's death. This teaches us to understand the true nature of people rather than projecting our own motives onto them.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Judges 9:54 (5 votes)

    Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him. And his young man thrust him through, and he died.

  • Matthew 7:2 (5 votes)

    For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

  • 2 Kings 11:12 (4 votes)

    And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and [gave him] the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king.

  • Lamentations 5:16 (3 votes)

    The crown is fallen [from] our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned!

  • 2 Samuel 12:30 (3 votes)

    And he took their king's crown from off his head, the weight whereof [was] a talent of gold with the precious stones: and it was [set] on David's head. And he brought forth the spoil of the city in great abundance.

  • Judges 1:7 (3 votes)

    And Adonibezek said, Threescore and ten kings, having their thumbs and their great toes cut off, gathered [their meat] under my table: as I have done, so God hath requited me. And they brought him to Jerusalem, and there he died.

  • 1 Samuel 31:4 (3 votes)

    Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.