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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Samuel 1:6 "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa," he replied, "and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/1-6.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/10_2Sa_01_06.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Samuel 1:6 - David Learns of Saul's Death" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, he replied, and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; 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and, lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_samuel/1.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Then the young man who told him said, “As I happened by chance <i>to be</i> on Mount Gilboa, there was Saul, leaning on his spear; and indeed the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_samuel/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />The young man who told him said, “By chance I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul was leaning on his spear. And behold, the chariots and the horsemen had overtaken him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/1.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />The young man who told him said, &#8220By chance I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul was leaning on his spear. And behold, the chariots and the horsemen pursued him closely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_samuel/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And the young man who told him said, “By chance I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul was leaning on his spear. And behold, the chariots and the horsemen pursued him closely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_samuel/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />And the young man who told him said, “By chance I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul was leaning on his spear. And behold, the chariots and the horsemen pursued him closely.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_samuel/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />And the young man who told him explained, “By chance I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and there was Saul leaning on his spear, and the chariots and horsemen [of the Philistines] were close behind him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_samuel/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />“I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,” he replied, “and there was Saul, leaning on his spear. At that very moment the chariots and the cavalry were closing in on him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_samuel/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,&#8221 he replied, &#8220and there was Saul, leaning on his spear. At that very moment the chariots and the cavalry were closing in on him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_samuel/1.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul was leaning upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and the horsemen followed hard after him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_samuel/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />The young man replied: I was on Mount Gilboa and saw King Saul leaning on his spear. The enemy's war chariots and cavalry were closing in on him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_samuel/1.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and the horsemen followed hard after him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_samuel/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />The young man answered, "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa. Saul was there leaning on his spear, and the chariots and horsemen were catching up with him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_samuel/1.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />He answered, "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa, and I saw that Saul was leaning on his spear and that the chariots and cavalry of the enemy were closing in on him. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_samuel/1.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />The young man who had been relating the story answered, "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa and there was Saul, leaning on his spear! Meanwhile, the chariots and horsemen were rapidly drawing near. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_samuel/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />?I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,? he replied, ?and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_samuel/1.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />The young man who was telling him this said, "I just happened to be on Mount Gilboa and came across Saul leaning on his spear for support. The chariots and leaders of the horsemen were in hot pursuit of him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_samuel/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Then the young man replied, "I happened to be on Mount Gilboa and saw Saul leaning on his spear. And look, the chariots and the horsemen were closing in on him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_samuel/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_samuel/1.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />The young man who told him said, “As I happened by chance on Mount Gilboa, behold, Saul was leaning on his spear; and behold, the chariots and the horsemen followed close behind him. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_samuel/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And the youth who is declaring [it] to him says, “I happened to meet in Mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul is leaning on his spear; and behold, the chariots and those possessing horses have followed him;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_samuel/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And the youth who is declaring it to him saith, I happened to meet in mount Gilboa, and lo, Saul is leaning on his spear; and lo, the chariots and those possessing horses have followed him;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_samuel/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And the youth announcing to him, will say, And happening, I happened to be upon mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul leaning upon his spear; and behold, the chariots and lords, the horsemen, pursued him.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_samuel/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />And the young man that told him, said: I came by chance upon mount Gelboe, and Saul leaned upon his spear: and the chariots and horsemen drew nigh unto him, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_samuel/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And the youth, who was reporting it to him, said: “I arrived by chance on mount Gilboa. And Saul was lying upon his spear. Then the chariots and horsemen drew near to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_samuel/1.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />The youth reporting to him replied: “I happened to find myself on Mount Gilboa and saw Saul leaning on his spear, with chariots and horsemen closing in on him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_samuel/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The young man reporting to him said, “I happened to be on Mount Gilboa; and there was Saul leaning on his spear, while the chariots and the horsemen drew close to him.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_samuel/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And the young man said to him, I happened by chance to be on mount Gilboa, and behold, Saul was leaning upon his spear; and lo, the chariots and horsemen overtook him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/2_samuel/1.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And young man said to him: “I happened to be in the mountain of Gelbua, and behold, Shaul leaned on his scepterspear, and chariots and men horsemen overtook him<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/2_samuel/1.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And the young man that told him said: 'As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and the horsemen pressed hard upon him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/2_samuel/1.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And the young man that brought the tidings, said to him, I happened accidentally to be upon mount Gelbue; and, behold, Saul was leaning upon his spear, and, behold, the chariots and captains of horse pressed hard upon him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_samuel/1-6.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_0ajZHUzMKw?start=48" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_samuel/1.htm">David Learns of Saul's Death</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">5</span>Then David asked the young man who had brought him the report, “How do you know that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead?” <span class="reftext">6</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/7122.htm" title="7122: niq·rō (V-Nifal-InfAbs) -- To encounter, befall. A primitive root: to encounter, whether accidentally or in a hostile manner.">“I happened</a> <a href="/hebrew/7136.htm" title="7136: niq·rê·ṯî (V-Nifal-Perf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to light upon; causatively, to bring about; specifically, to impose timbers."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2022.htm" title="2022: bə·har (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- Mountain, hill, hill country. A shortened form of harar; a mountain or range of hills.">to be on Mount</a> <a href="/hebrew/1533.htm" title="1533: hag·gil·bō·a‘ (Art:: N-proper-fs) -- A mountain in N. Isr. From gal and ba'ah; fountain of ebullition; Gilboa, a mountain of Palestine.">Gilboa,”</a> <a href="/hebrew/5288.htm" title="5288: han·na·‘ar (Art:: N-ms) -- A boy, lad, youth, retainer. From na'ar; a boy, from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also, a girl.">he</a> <a href="/hebrew/5046.htm" title="5046: ham·mag·gîḏ (Art:: V-Hifil-Prtcpl-ms) -- To be conspicuous. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/lōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: way·yō·mer (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">replied,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2009.htm" title="2009: wə·hin·nêh (Conj-w:: Interjection) -- Lo! behold! Prolongation for hen; lo!">“and there</a> <a href="/hebrew/7586.htm" title="7586: šā·’ūl (N-proper-ms) -- Passive participle of sha'al; asked; Shaul, the name of an Edomite and two Israelites.">was Saul,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8172.htm" title="8172: niš·‘ān (V-Nifal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To lean, support oneself. A primitive root; to support one's self.">leaning</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">on</a> <a href="/hebrew/2595.htm" title="2595: ḥă·nî·ṯōw (N-fsc:: 3ms) -- A spear. From chanah; a lance.">his spear,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2009.htm" title="2009: wə·hin·nêh (Conj-w:: Interjection) -- Lo! behold! Prolongation for hen; lo!">with</a> <a href="/hebrew/7393.htm" title="7393: hā·re·ḵeḇ (Art:: N-ms) -- From rakab; a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e. The upper millstone.">the chariots</a> <a href="/hebrew/1167.htm" title="1167: ū·ḇa·‘ă·lê (Conj-w:: N-mpc) -- Owner, lord. From ba'al; a master; hence, a husband, or owner."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6571.htm" title="6571: hap·pā·rā·šîm (Art:: N-mp) -- A steed, a driver, cavalry. From parash; a steed (compare cuwc); also a driver, i.e. cavalry.">and the cavalry</a> <a href="/hebrew/1692.htm" title="1692: hiḏ·bi·qu·hū (V-Hifil-Perf-3cp:: 3ms) -- To cling, cleave, keep close. A primitive root; properly, to impinge, i.e. Cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit.">closing in on him.</a> </span><span class="reftext">7</span>When he turned around and saw me, he called out and I answered, ‘Here I am!’…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/31-3.htm">1 Samuel 31:3-5</a></span><br />When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. / Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through with it, or these uncircumcised men will come and run me through and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. / When his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his own sword and died with him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/10-3.htm">1 Chronicles 10:3-5</a></span><br />When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him. / Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run me through with it, or these uncircumcised men will come and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. / When his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his own sword and died.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/1-10.htm">2 Samuel 1:10</a></span><br />So I stood over him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/1-14.htm">2 Samuel 1:14-16</a></span><br />So David asked him, “Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?” / Then David summoned one of the young men and said, “Go, execute him!” So the young man struck him down, and he died. / For David had said to the Amalekite, “Your blood be on your own head because your own mouth has testified against you, saying, ‘I killed the LORD’s anointed.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_samuel/4-10.htm">2 Samuel 4:10</a></span><br />when someone told me, ‘Look, Saul is dead,’ and thought he was a bearer of good news, I seized him and put him to death at Ziklag. That was his reward for his news!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/28-4.htm">1 Samuel 28:4-5</a></span><br />The Philistines gathered together and camped at Shunem, while Saul gathered all Israel and camped at Gilboa. / When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid and trembled violently.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/14-1.htm">1 Samuel 14:1</a></span><br />One day Jonathan son of Saul said to the young man bearing his armor, “Come, let us cross over to the Philistine outpost on the other side.” But Jonathan did not tell his father.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/17-50.htm">1 Samuel 17:50-51</a></span><br />Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. / David ran and stood over him. He grabbed the Philistine’s sword and pulled it from its sheath and killed him, and he cut off his head with the sword. When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/18-11.htm">1 Samuel 18:11</a></span><br />and he hurled it, thinking, “I will pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/19-10.htm">1 Samuel 19:10</a></span><br />Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear. But David eluded him and the spear struck the wall. And David fled and escaped that night.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/20-3.htm">1 Samuel 20:3</a></span><br />But David again vowed, “Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said, ‘Jonathan must not know of this, or he will be grieved.’ As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, there is but a step between me and death.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/23-26.htm">1 Samuel 23:26-28</a></span><br />Saul was proceeding along one side of the mountain, and David and his men along the other side. Even though David was hurrying to get away, Saul and his men were closing in on David and his men to capture them. / Then a messenger came to Saul, saying, “Come quickly, for the Philistines have raided the land!” / So Saul broke off his pursuit of David and went to meet the Philistines. That is why that place is called Sela-hammahlekoth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/24-2.htm">1 Samuel 24:2</a></span><br />So Saul took three thousand chosen men from all Israel and went to look for David and his men in the region of the Rocks of the Wild Goats.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/26-2.htm">1 Samuel 26:2</a></span><br />So Saul, accompanied by three thousand chosen men of Israel, went down to the Wilderness of Ziph to search for David there.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/31-1.htm">1 Samuel 31:1</a></span><br />Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance on mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned on his spear; and, see, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ruth/2-3.htm">Ruth 2:3</a></b></br> And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field <i>belonging</i> unto Boaz, who <i>was</i> of the kindred of Elimelech.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/6-9.htm">1 Samuel 6:9</a></b></br> And see, if it goeth up by the way of his own coast to Bethshemesh, <i>then</i> he hath done us this great evil: but if not, then we shall know that <i>it is</i> not his hand <i>that</i> smote us; it <i>was</i> a chance <i>that</i> happened to us.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/10-31.htm">Luke 10:31</a></b></br> And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.</p><p class="hdg">mount</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/1-21.htm">2 Samuel 1:21</a></b></br> Ye mountains of Gilboa, <i>let there be</i> no dew, neither <i>let there be</i> rain, upon you, nor fields of offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, <i>as though he had</i> not <i>been</i> anointed with oil.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/28-4.htm">1 Samuel 28:4</a></b></br> And the Philistines gathered themselves together, and came and pitched in Shunem: and Saul gathered all Israel together, and they pitched in Gilboa.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/31-1.htm">1 Samuel 31:1</a></b></br> Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa.</p><p class="hdg">Saul</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/31-2.htm">1 Samuel 31:2-7</a></b></br> And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, Saul's sons… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_samuel/10-7.htm">Chance</a> <a href="/1_samuel/13-5.htm">Chariots</a> <a href="/ruth/4-1.htm">Close</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-22.htm">Closely</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-5.htm">Declaring</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-2.htm">Followed</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-8.htm">Gilboa</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-8.htm">Gilbo'a</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-3.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/1_samuel/13-5.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/1_samuel/8-11.htm">Horses</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-21.htm">Leaning</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-21.htm">Meet</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-8.htm">Mount</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-6.htm">Overtook</a> <a href="/1_samuel/28-7.htm">Possessing</a> <a href="/1_samuel/31-3.htm">Pressed</a> <a href="/1_samuel/30-10.htm">Pursued</a> <a href="/judges/5-10.htm">Riders</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-5.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/1_samuel/26-22.htm">Spear</a> <a href="/judges/16-29.htm">Supporting</a> <a href="/1_samuel/8-12.htm">War-Carriages</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-5.htm">Young</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-5.htm">Youth</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_kings/11-40.htm">Chance</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-4.htm">Chariots</a> <a href="/2_samuel/19-42.htm">Close</a> <a href="/1_kings/3-21.htm">Closely</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-13.htm">Declaring</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-10.htm">Followed</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-21.htm">Gilboa</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-21.htm">Gilbo'a</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-17.htm">Hard</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-4.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-4.htm">Horses</a> <a href="/psalms/62-3.htm">Leaning</a> <a href="/2_samuel/6-20.htm">Meet</a> <a href="/2_samuel/15-30.htm">Mount</a> <a href="/2_samuel/3-26.htm">Overtook</a> <a href="/isaiah/41-15.htm">Possessing</a> <a href="/2_samuel/11-23.htm">Pressed</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-19.htm">Pursued</a> <a href="/2_kings/18-23.htm">Riders</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-12.htm">Saul</a> <a href="/2_samuel/2-23.htm">Spear</a> <a href="/2_samuel/5-9.htm">Supporting</a> <a href="/2_samuel/8-4.htm">War-Carriages</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-13.htm">Young</a> <a href="/2_samuel/1-13.htm">Youth</a><div class="vheading2">2 Samuel 1</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/1-1.htm">The Amalekite who accused himself of Saul's death is slain</a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_samuel/1-17.htm">David laments Saul and Jonathan with a song</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_samuel/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>“I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,” he replied</b><br>Mount Gilboa is a significant location in Israel's history, known for the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines where King Saul and his sons died. This mountain is situated in the northern part of Israel, near the Jezreel Valley. The mention of Mount Gilboa sets the scene for the tragic end of Saul's reign. The Amalekite's presence on the mountain is suspicious, as it was a battlefield, and his claim of being there "by chance" raises questions about his motives and truthfulness. This location is also referenced in <a href="/1_samuel/31.htm">1 Samuel 31</a>, where the battle's outcome is detailed.<p><b>“and there was Saul, leaning on his spear”</b><br>Saul leaning on his spear symbolizes his vulnerability and desperation in his final moments. The spear, often a symbol of Saul's military power and authority, now becomes a crutch, indicating his weakened state. This imagery contrasts with Saul's earlier reign when he was a formidable warrior. The spear also connects to earlier narratives, such as when Saul attempted to kill David with a spear (<a href="/1_samuel/18-10.htm">1 Samuel 18:10-11</a>), highlighting the tragic irony of his end. Saul's reliance on his spear in his last moments underscores his isolation and the collapse of his kingship.<p><b>“with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him.”</b><br>The mention of chariots and cavalry indicates the Philistines' military superiority. Chariots were a significant advantage in ancient warfare, often used by the Philistines, as seen in <a href="/judges/1-19.htm">Judges 1:19</a>. The Israelites, lacking such technology, were at a disadvantage. This detail emphasizes the dire situation Saul faced, surrounded by a powerful enemy. The closing in of the Philistine forces signifies the inevitable defeat and the fulfillment of Samuel's prophecy in <a href="/1_samuel/28-19.htm">1 Samuel 28:19</a>, where he foretold that Saul and his sons would fall to the Philistines. This moment foreshadows the transition of kingship from Saul to David, aligning with God's plan for Israel.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/m/mount_gilboa.htm">Mount Gilboa</a></b><br>A significant location in Israel where King Saul and his sons died in battle against the Philistines. It is a place of tragedy and defeat for Israel.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/s/saul.htm">Saul</a></b><br>The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. His reign ended in tragedy due to his disobedience to God, culminating in his death on Mount Gilboa.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_amalekite.htm">The Amalekite</a></b><br>A young man who claims to have found Saul on Mount Gilboa and later brings news of Saul's death to David, expecting a reward.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/c/chariots_and_horsemen.htm">Chariots and Horsemen</a></b><br>Represent the Philistine forces that were pursuing Saul and his army, signifying the overwhelming military threat Israel faced.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/d/david.htm">David</a></b><br>Although not directly mentioned in this verse, David is the recipient of the Amalekite's report and plays a crucial role in the subsequent account.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_consequences_of_disobedience.htm">The Consequences of Disobedience</a></b><br>Saul's tragic end serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God. His failure to fully obey God's commands led to his downfall and the loss of his kingdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_integrity.htm">The Importance of Integrity</a></b><br>The Amalekite's false report to David highlights the importance of truthfulness and integrity. Seeking personal gain through deceit ultimately leads to judgment.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_leadership.htm">God's Sovereignty in Leadership</a></b><br>Despite Saul's failure, God's plan for Israel continued through David. This demonstrates God's sovereignty and ability to work through human failures to accomplish His purposes.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/facing_adversity_with_faith.htm">Facing Adversity with Faith</a></b><br>The image of Saul leaning on his spear amidst overwhelming odds can remind believers to lean on God in times of adversity, trusting in His strength and guidance.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_providence.htm">The Role of Providence</a></b><br>The events on Mount Gilboa illustrate God's providential hand in history, guiding the course of events according to His divine will.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_samuel_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 1</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_killed_saul__himself_or_amalekite.htm">Who killed Saul? Saul took his own sword and fell upon it.... Thus Saul died... (I Samuel 31:4-6) An Amalekite slew him (2 Samuel 1:1- 16)</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_1_sam_31_4-5_and_2_sam_1_10_differ.htm">How can 1 Samuel 31:4-5 claim Saul died by falling on his own sword if 2 Samuel 1:10 says an Amalekite killed him?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_1_chr_10_4_and_2_sam_1_10.htm">How can 1 Chronicles 10's account that Saul died by falling on his own sword (1 Chronicles 10:4) be reconciled with 2 Samuel 1:10, where an Amalekite claims to have killed him?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_do_1_chr_16_and_2_sam_6_differ.htm">Why does 1 Chronicles 16 differ from 2 Samuel 6 in describing the Ark's journey and the people's offerings?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_samuel/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(6) <span class= "bld">Upon mount Gilboa.</span>--The battle appears to have been joined in the plain of Jezreel, but when the Israelites were routed they naturally fled up the mountain range of Gilboa, though apparently much scattered. It was in this straggling flight that the Amalekite happened upon that part of the mountain where Saul was. The true account of the death of Saul is given in <a href="/context/1_samuel/31-3.htm" title="And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers.">1Samuel 31:3-6</a>. (See Note on <a href="/2_samuel/1-10.htm" title="So I stood on him, and slew him, because I was sure that he could not live after that he was fallen: and I took the crown that was on his head, and the bracelet that was on his arm, and have brought them here to my lord.">2Samuel 1:10</a>.) It is uncertain whether the man saw Saul at all before his death, and it is extremely unlikely that he found him without warriors or armour-bearer, wounded and alone.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_samuel/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 6.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">As I happened by chance upon</span> <span class="cmt_word">Mount Gilboa.</span> The story of the Amalekite is at variance with the account of Saul's death given in the last chapter of the preceding book. There, sore pressed and wounded by archers, hopeless of escape, and unable to make any further resistance, in sore distress at the death of his sons and the loss of the battle, Saul and his armour bearer fall upon their own swords. Here, closely pursued by chariots and horsemen, the king is so utterly deserted by all his body guard that he cells to a vagabond prowling about for booty to slay him. Naturally, Ewald and his followers, who regard the books of the Bible as mere patchwork, find here the marks of different narrators, whose stories the compiler of the Book of Samuel pieced together without having the shrewdness to observe that they were utterly irreconcilable. Some modern commentators have, however, attempted to harmonize them with little success. Really, the story of the Amalekite is a most improbable fiction, and utterly untrue. He knew nothing as to the manner of Saul's death, but found the body, probably some time after the king had fallen; and he was able to strip it because the pursuing Philistines were hurrying forward to make their victory complete, without being aware of what was the crowning glory of their success. As the pursuit advanced it would soon become safe for the Amalekite and others like him to try and secure some of the booty before the Philistines returned. Archers shooting from a distance might easily so distress Saul as to make him despair of escape - and it appears from the first narrative that they had not recognized him; for Saul is afraid lest they should do so, and, having taken him alive, should "abuse," or make a mock of him. Here chariots and horsemen are in close pursuit, and the king faces them grimly; nevertheless, they allow a stranger, who would not have dared to mix himself up with the battle, to rob them of their prize. We may feel sure that it was not until the tide of battle had moved onward in pursuit that the Amalekite ventured upon the field to rob the dead. When so occupied he came upon a corpse, now for some brief space dead, and at once recognized the tall form of the king, whose identity was made more plain by the golden circlet upon his helmet. At Once he saw the chance of larger gains, and hastily tearing off the royal crown and the bracelet from the fallen monarch, without a thought of rescuing the remains from the indignities which the Philistines were sure to inflict upon them, he hurried away with his tidings. Of course, he knew nothing of David's recent conduct, nor that for some time he had accompanied the invading army, nor that Ziklag had just experienced rough treatment from his own countrymen. Still, if he had told the truth, he would have fared well; for he brought news of great importance. But truth was not a virtue much practised in those days, and, fancying that the treatment he had met with from Saul would fill David's heart with bitter rancour against him, the Amalekite invented this story of his having slain the king with his own hands, in the expectation that it would win for him a double reward. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_samuel/1-6.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">“I happened</span><br /><span class="heb">נִקְרֹ֤א</span> <span class="translit">(niq·rō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Infinitive absolute<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7122.htm">Strong's 7122: </a> </span><span class="str2">To encounter, befall</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to be on Mount</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּהַ֣ר</span> <span class="translit">(bə·har)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2022.htm">Strong's 2022: </a> </span><span class="str2">Mountain, hill, hill country</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Gilboa,”</span><br /><span class="heb">הַגִּלְבֹּ֔עַ</span> <span class="translit">(hag·gil·bō·a‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - proper - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1533.htm">Strong's 1533: </a> </span><span class="str2">Gilboa -- a mountain in Northern Israel</span><br /><br /><span class="word">he</span><br /><span class="heb">הַנַּ֣עַר ׀</span> <span class="translit">(han·na·‘ar)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5288.htm">Strong's 5288: </a> </span><span class="str2">A boy, lad, youth, retainer</span><br /><br /><span class="word">replied,</span><br /><span class="heb">וַיֹּ֜אמֶר</span> <span class="translit">(way·yō·mer)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> </span><span class="str2">To utter, say</span><br /><br /><span class="word">“and there</span><br /><span class="heb">וְהִנֵּ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(wə·hin·nêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Interjection<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2009.htm">Strong's 2009: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lo! behold!</span><br /><br /><span class="word">was Saul,</span><br /><span class="heb">שָׁא֖וּל</span> <span class="translit">(šā·’ūl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - proper - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7586.htm">Strong's 7586: </a> </span><span class="str2">Saul -- first king of Israel, also an Edomite and two Israelites</span><br /><br /><span class="word">leaning</span><br /><span class="heb">נִשְׁעָ֣ן</span> <span class="translit">(niš·‘ān)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8172.htm">Strong's 8172: </a> </span><span class="str2">To lean, support oneself</span><br /><br /><span class="word">on</span><br /><span class="heb">עַל־</span> <span class="translit">(‘al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> </span><span class="str2">Above, over, upon, against</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his spear,</span><br /><span class="heb">חֲנִית֑וֹ</span> <span class="translit">(ḥă·nî·ṯōw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2595.htm">Strong's 2595: </a> </span><span class="str2">A lance</span><br /><br /><span class="word">with</span><br /><span class="heb">וְהִנֵּ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(wə·hin·nêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Interjection<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2009.htm">Strong's 2009: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lo! behold!</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the chariots</span><br /><span class="heb">הָרֶ֛כֶב</span> <span class="translit">(hā·re·ḵeḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7393.htm">Strong's 7393: </a> </span><span class="str2">A vehicle, a team, cavalry, a rider, the upper millstone</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and the cavalry</span><br /><span class="heb">הַפָּרָשִׁ֖ים</span> <span class="translit">(hap·pā·rā·šîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6571.htm">Strong's 6571: </a> </span><span class="str2">A steed, a driver, cavalry</span><br /><br /><span class="word">closing in on him.</span><br /><span class="heb">הִדְבִּקֻֽהוּ׃</span> <span class="translit">(hiḏ·bi·qu·hū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Perfect - third person common plural | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1692.htm">Strong's 1692: </a> </span><span class="str2">To impinge, cling, adhere, to catch by pursuit</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_samuel/1-6.htm">2 Samuel 1:6 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_samuel/1-6.htm">OT History: 2 Samuel 1:6 The young man who told him said (2Sa iiSam 2 Sam ii sam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_samuel/1-5.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Samuel 1:5"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 1:5" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_samuel/1-7.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Samuel 1:7"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Samuel 1:7" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>