King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 10:2 Mean?

1 Chronicles 10:2 in the King James Version says “And the Philistines followed hard after Saul, and after his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and M...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the Philistines followed hard after Saul, and after his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, the sons of Saul. Abinadab: also called, Ishui.I.Sam.14.49.”

1 Chronicles 10:2 · KJV

Context

1

Now the Philistines fought against Israel; and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. slain: or, wounded

2

And the Philistines followed hard after Saul, and after his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, the sons of Saul. Abinadab: also called, Ishui.I.Sam.14.49.

3

And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him, and he was wounded of the archers. and the archers: Heb. and the shooters with bows hit: Heb. found

4

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

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Saul's death and divine judgment. The Hebrew term מָעַל (ma'al) - to act unfaithfully is theologically significant here, pointing to Divine judgment on disobedience. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about Divine judgment on disobedience. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: Contrast between failed human kingship and Christ's perfect reign.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Saul's death and divine judgment occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on Divine judgment on disobedience challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Contrast between failed human kingship and Christ's perfect reign teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 17 words
וַיַּדְבְּק֣וּ1 of 17

“followed hard”

H1692

properly, to impinge, i.e., cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit

פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים2 of 17

“And the Philistines”

H6430

a pelishtite or inhabitant of pelesheth

וְאַֽחֲרֵ֣י3 of 17

“after”

H310

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

שָׁאֽוּל׃4 of 17

“Saul”

H7586

shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites

וְאַֽחֲרֵ֣י5 of 17

“after”

H310

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

בְּנֵ֥י6 of 17

“his sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

וַיַּכּ֣וּ7 of 17

“slew”

H5221

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים8 of 17

“And the Philistines”

H6430

a pelishtite or inhabitant of pelesheth

אֶת9 of 17
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יֽוֹנָתָ֧ן10 of 17

“Jonathan”

H3129

jonathan, the name of ten israelites

וְאֶת11 of 17
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

אֲבִֽינָדָ֛ב12 of 17

“and Abinadab”

H41

abinadab, the name of four israelites

וְאֶת13 of 17
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מַלְכִּי14 of 17
H0
שׁ֖וּעַ15 of 17

“and Malchishua”

H4444

malkishua, an israelite

בְּנֵ֥י16 of 17

“his sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

שָׁאֽוּל׃17 of 17

“Saul”

H7586

shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 10:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 10:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Kings 25:71 Samuel 14:491 Samuel 14:61 Chronicles 9:391 Samuel 14:39-40Exodus 20:5

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