2 samuel 1:7 - When he looked behind him, he saw me, and called to me. I answered, ‘Here I am.’

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 1:7

What does "2 samuel 1:7" mean?


This verse from 2 Samuel 1:7 describes a pivotal moment in the story of the Amalekite's encounter with King Saul on Mount Gilboa, just before Saul's death. Let's break it down:

"When he looked behind him, he saw me, and called to me." This establishes that the Amalekite was approaching Saul from the rear. Saul, possibly wounded or distressed after the battle, turned and noticed the Amalekite and summoned him. This shows Saul was aware and conscious in his final moments.

"I answered, ‘Here I am.’" The Amalekite responded to Saul's call, indicating his willingness to approach and potentially assist the king. This also suggests a submissive stance.

In context of the wider narrative, this verse serves to set up the Amalekite's false claim that he killed Saul. The Amalekite goes on to tell David a fabricated story, claiming that Saul asked him to end his life to avoid being captured and tortured by the Philistines. He presents Saul's diadem and bracelet to David as proof of his deed.

Meaning and Significance:

Sets the scene for the Amalekite's lie: The verse is a necessary part of the Amalekite's narrative. It establishes contact between the Amalekite and Saul, which is essential for the Amalekite to claim he fulfilled Saul's dying wish.
Highlights Saul's desperation: The fact that Saul called out to a stranger (and an Amalekite, a traditional enemy of Israel) suggests his dire situation and desperation to avoid capture.
Creates dramatic irony: The reader knows that the Amalekite's story is likely false (or at least embellished) given the broader context of the battle and the potential motives of the Amalekite. This creates tension and suspense as David reacts to the news.
Raises questions about Saul's motivations: If the Amalekite's account were true (though it's highly doubted), it would offer insight into Saul's mindset in his final moments – his fear of capture outweighing his desire to fight on.

Ultimately, this verse, though short, plays a critical role in the story by providing a foundation for the Amalekite's deceitful claim and setting the stage for David's reaction and the subsequent consequences. David ultimately has the Amalekite killed for claiming to have killed the Lord's anointed.

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