John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. And David sent messengers unto the men of Jabeshgilead , etc.] To return them thanks for their courage and boldness in rescuing the bodies of Saul and his sons out of the hands of the Philistines, and for their civility in the burial of them: and said unto them, blessed [be] ye of the Lord ; which may be considered either as a wish, the Lord bless you for it, or as a prediction, the Lord will bless you: that ye have showed this kindness unto your lord, [even] unto Saul , and have buried him . To bury the dead, with the Jews, was always reckoned an instance of humanity and kindness, and indeed of piety; an act done in imitation of God f24 , who buried Moses, and so it might be expected the divine blessing would attend it.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-7 - After the death of Saul, many went to David at Ziklag, 1Ch 12:22, but he trusted in God who promised him the kingdom, to give it in his ow time and manner. Yet assurance of hope in God's promise, will quicke pious endeavours. If I be chosen to the crown of life, it does no follow, Then I will do nothing; but, Then I will do all that God directs me. This good use David made of his election, and so will all whom God has chosen. In all our journeys and removes, it is comfortabl to see God going before us; and we may do so, if by faith and prayer we set Him before us. God, according to the promise, directed David' path. David rose gradually: thus the kingdom of the Messiah, the Son of David, is set up by degrees; he is Lord of all, but we see not yet all things put under him.
Original Hebrew וישׁלח7971 דוד1732 מלאכים4397 אל413 אנשׁי376 יבישׁ3003 גלעד1568 ויאמר559 אליהם413 ברכים1288 אתם859 ליהוה3068 אשׁר834 עשׂיתם6213 החסד2617 הזה2088 עם5973 אדניכם113 עם5973 שׁאול7586 ותקברו6912 אתו׃853
