King James Version
What Does 1 Chronicles 10:5 Mean?
“And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise on the sword, and died.”
Context
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
5
And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise on the sword, and died.
6
So Saul died, and his three sons, and all his house died together.
7
And when all the men of Israel that were in the valley saw that they fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, then they forsook their cities, and fled: and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **He fell likewise on the sword.**—Sam., “his sword,” *i.e.,* the sword of the armour-bearer.
**And died.**—Samuel adds “with him,” which seems to be omitted here for brevity, which may be the reason of other similar omissions. Loyalty to his chief, and perhaps dread of the foe, were the armour-bearer’s motives.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 10:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.