The answer is: Death of seven of Saul's sons

2 Sam 21:5-9,14

In a gripping narrative from 2 Samuel, David's famine crisis highlights the intricate web of justice and legacy woven throughout Israel’s history. The famine endured by David's kingdom lasted three long years, revealing a supernatural dimension as it was linked to a transgression committed during Saul’s reign—specifically, Saul's attempt to exterminate the Gibeonites, who had a peace treaty with Israel. This haunting echo of broken promises reminds us of the Bible's emphasis on justice and redemption.

The arrangement involving the execution of seven of Saul's sons jolts us into acknowledging the harsh realities of ancient customs, where familial ties held immense power over collective fate. Interestingly, this act wasn’t just about punishment; it was also a complex means of restoring balance and covenants that had been violated—an ancient safeguard against personal vendettas.

As an extra layer, this incident foreshadows themes that resonate throughout the Scriptures: the importance of lineage, sacrifice, and communal responsibility. It’s intriguing how names and stories repeat in Scripture; consider that one of the sons, Mephibosheth, was spared, which speaks volumes about loyalty and grace intertwined in narratives. The fall of Saul's house and the repercussions for the generations that come after reveal a lesson in accountability that stretches across time, illustrating that our actions can echo long after they’ve been committed. It's a striking reminder of how history and heredity shape our spiritual journeys!