Rispa, a concubine of King Saul of Israel, became known for her dedication to protecting the bodies of her children even after their deaths. She was an Edomite, mother of two. Rispah’s story unfolds in a turbulent period after Saul’s death, where political intrigues and power struggles between Ish-bosheth and David influenced events.
A conflict between Ish-bosheth and Abner resulted in David’s ascension as a unified king. Later, a drought punished Israel for Saul’s betrayal of the Gibeonites. The Gibeonites requested that seven of Saul’s descendants be delivered to be hanged as reparations. Among these descendants were the sons of Rispa.
After the children were hanged, Rispa protected their bodies for months, preventing them from being devoured by animals and birds. This persistent action attracted the attention of King David, who then provided a dignified burial for the bodies. After burial, the Bible indicates that the divine attitude toward Israel has changed, ending the crisis.
Rispa’s story in the Bible is marked by her persistence in protecting her children’s honor even in the face of tragedy, revealing exemplary courage and devotion.
21 дек 2023
