“Ye mountains of Gilboa, let there be no dew, neither let there be rain, upon you, nor fields of offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, as though he had not been anointed with oil.”
This verse is part of David’s lamentation upon hearing of the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. It expresses David’s sorrow and mourning over the loss of King Saul, who had been anointed with oil as the first king of Israel.
Context:In the previous chapter (1 Samuel 31), we learn that Saul, the first king of Israel, and his son Jonathan died in battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa. David receives the news of their deaths from an Amalekite messenger, and he composes this lament in response.
Mourning Saul’s death:David addresses the mountains of Gilboa, where the battle took place. He appeals to the natural elements, asking that there be no dew or rain upon them and no fields of offerings, indicating a desire for desolation and a curse on the location where Saul met his demise.
The shield of the mighty:David laments the dishonorable way in which Saul’s shield, representing his royal power and authority, was cast away. The shield was a symbol of protection and a representation of Saul’s anointing as king. The phrase as though he had not been anointed with oil emphasizes the tragedy of Saul’s downfall and the loss of the divine favour bestowed upon him through anointing.
Reflection on Saul’s reign:David’s words imply disappointment and sorrow over the fact that Saul, who had been anointed by God to rule over Israel, had met such an ignoble end. Despite Saul’s shortcomings and the troubled relationship between him and David, David acknowledges that Saul was anointed with oil, signifying God’s choice and divine appointment.
In this verse, we witness David’s deep sense of loss and his genuine grief over the death of Saul, despite their complicated history. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness to God’s calling.
Overall, 2 Samuel 1:21 highlights the themes of mourning, honour, and reflection on the reign of Saul. It invites us to consider the significance of God’s anointing, the consequences of our actions, and the importance of treating those in positions of authority with respect and honour.
