The answer is: Saul killed the Gibeonites

2 Sam 21:1

In 2 Samuel 21, we find an intriguing and somewhat challenging account that centers around the consequences of Saul’s actions towards the Gibeonites. It’s fascinating to ponder the sociopolitical landscape of ancient Israel—these were not merely random events, but deeply intertwined cultural narratives. Saul had violated a solemn oath made by Joshua when the Israelites first entered the land; they swore not to harm the Gibeonites, who were seen as protectors seeking peace.

The resulting famine during David's reign was not just about agriculture or weather; it surfaced as a poignant reminder of broken covenants and historically embedded grievances. David, a king mindful of justice, sought to rectify the situation as much as feasible. When he consulted God, this famine was understood as divine retribution—a complete shift from the earlier smooth sailing the nation experienced.

Interestingly, this line of reflection carries echoes of later biblical ethics regarding the treatment of foreigners and those on the margins of society, bridging us to the profound teachings found in both the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament on loving one's neighbor—regardless of origin. The Gibeonites, originally a group considered mere subjects, were given their rightful voice due, demonstrating a cycle of justice and mercy reflective of God’s interests.

As we delve deeper, the tale brings to mind other instances of divine intervention in response to human actions, hinting at the principles of accountability lurking throughout the biblical narrative. It raises questions about the interconnectedness between communities and underscores that our choices today ripple into the tides of history, influencing not only our present but also our relationship with the divine and one another.