King James Version
What Does 2 Samuel 1:17 Mean?
“And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:”
Context
15
And David called one of the young men, and said, Go near, and fall upon him. And he smote him that he died.
16
And David said unto him, Thy blood be upon thy head; for thy mouth hath testified against thee, saying, I have slain the LORD'S anointed.
17
And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son:
18
(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.) of Jasher: or, of the upright
19
The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **Lamented with this lamentation.**—This is the technical expression for a funeral dirge or elegy, such as David also composed on the death of Abner (2Samuel 3:33-34), and Jeremiah on the death of Josiah (2Chronicles 35:25). It is the only instance preserved to us (except the few lines on the death of Abner) of David’s secular poetry. “It is one of the finest odes of the Old Testament, full of lofty sentiment, and springing from deep and sanctified emotion, in which, without the slightest allusion to his own relation to the fallen king, David celebrates without envy the bravery and virtues of Saul and his son Jonathan, and bitterly laments their loss.” (Keil.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Samuel 1:17 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 2 Samuel 1:17
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge