Then David asked
David, now established as king over Israel, demonstrates his character by seeking to fulfill a promise. This inquiry reflects his desire to act with integrity and loyalty, qualities that are central to his reign. David's question initiates a narrative that highlights themes of covenant faithfulness and mercy.

“Is there anyone left from the house of Saul
The house of Saul, once a powerful dynasty, has been largely decimated due to Saul's disobedience and subsequent downfall. David's inquiry about Saul's descendants is significant because it was customary for new dynasties to eliminate the previous king's family to secure their own rule. However, David's approach is countercultural, emphasizing grace over vengeance.

to whom I can show kindness
The Hebrew word for "kindness" here is "chesed," which denotes steadfast love, mercy, and covenant loyalty. This reflects God's own character and His covenantal love for His people. David's desire to show kindness is a reflection of God's kindness, and it sets a precedent for how leaders should treat others, even former rivals.

for the sake of Jonathan?”
Jonathan, Saul's son, was David's close friend and ally. They shared a covenant of friendship and loyalty (1 Samuel 18:3; 20:14-17). David's actions are motivated by this covenant, demonstrating the enduring nature of promises made before God. This also prefigures the New Testament concept of grace extended to us for the sake of Christ, our mediator and friend.

And there was a servant of the house of Saul named Ziba.
Ziba was a servant in the household of Saul, Israel's first king. After Saul's death, his household would have been in a precarious position, as the transition of power to David, who was from a different tribe, could have led to the elimination of Saul's family and associates. Ziba's role as a servant indicates he was likely responsible for managing the affairs of Saul's estate. This context highlights the political and social dynamics of the time, where loyalty to a former king could be dangerous. The mention of Ziba by name suggests his importance in the narrative, as he becomes a key figure in the story of Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson.

They summoned him to David,
David's summoning of Ziba indicates his intention to show kindness to the house of Saul, fulfilling his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. This act of summoning also reflects the authority David held as king, able to call individuals to his presence. It demonstrates David's desire to maintain justice and mercy, key themes in his reign. The summoning of Ziba sets the stage for the unfolding of David's grace towards Mephibosheth, which is a reflection of God's grace towards humanity.

and the king inquired, “Are you Ziba?”
David's inquiry shows his personal involvement and attention to detail in matters of state and personal promises. It reflects the importance of identity and recognition in the ancient Near Eastern culture, where knowing someone's name and status was crucial for social and political interactions. This question also serves to confirm Ziba's identity, ensuring that David is speaking to the correct person who can provide information about Saul's descendants.

“I am your servant,” he replied.
Ziba's response indicates his acknowledgment of David's authority and his willingness to serve the new king. This phrase reflects the cultural norms of the time, where servants were expected to show loyalty and submission to their masters. Ziba's declaration of servitude is significant, as it sets the tone for his future actions and interactions with David and Mephibosheth. It also highlights the theme of servanthood, which is prevalent throughout the Bible and is exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ, who came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45).

So the king asked,
This phrase refers to King David, who is now firmly established as the ruler of Israel. His inquiry reflects his desire to fulfill a covenant promise he made to Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. David's kingship is characterized by justice and kindness, aligning with the biblical ideal of a godly ruler.

“Is there anyone left of the house of Saul
The house of Saul refers to the family and descendants of Saul, the first king of Israel. After Saul's death, his house was largely decimated due to the conflict between Saul and David. This inquiry shows David's willingness to extend grace and mercy, contrasting with the common practice of eliminating rival dynasties to secure one's throne.

to whom I can show the kindness of God?”
The "kindness of God" refers to the Hebrew word "chesed," which denotes steadfast love, mercy, and covenant faithfulness. David's desire to show this kindness reflects God's own character and foreshadows the New Testament teaching of grace. This act of kindness is a type of Christ's redemptive work, where grace is extended to those who are undeserving.

Ziba answered,
Ziba is a servant from Saul's household. His role here is significant as he becomes the intermediary who connects David with the remaining member of Saul's family. Ziba's knowledge of Jonathan's son indicates his continued service and loyalty to Saul's house.

“There is still Jonathan’s son,
Jonathan was Saul's son and David's close friend. The mention of Jonathan's son highlights the enduring bond between David and Jonathan, despite the enmity between David and Saul. This connection underscores the theme of covenant loyalty and friendship.

who is lame in both feet.”
This detail about Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, is significant. His lameness is a result of an accident when he was five years old, as described in 2 Samuel 4:4. In the ancient Near Eastern context, physical disabilities often led to marginalization. David's willingness to honor and care for Mephibosheth despite his disability reflects God's inclusive love and foreshadows the gospel's message of grace to all, regardless of status or condition.

"Where is he?" replied the king.
This phrase reflects King David's desire to show kindness to the house of Saul for Jonathan's sake. It demonstrates David's loyalty and covenantal faithfulness, as he had made a promise to Jonathan to care for his descendants (1 Samuel 20:14-17). This inquiry also highlights David's character as a king who seeks to extend grace and mercy, reflecting God's own nature. The question signifies a turning point in the narrative, where David actively seeks out Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, to fulfill his promise.

And Ziba said,
Ziba was a servant of Saul's household, now serving David. His role is significant as he provides the necessary information about Mephibosheth's whereabouts. Ziba's presence in the narrative underscores the transition of power from Saul's house to David's, and his willingness to serve David indicates the shifting allegiances in the kingdom. Ziba's knowledge of Mephibosheth's location suggests he maintained connections with Saul's family, which was crucial for David's plan to show kindness.

"Indeed, he is in Lo-debar
Lo-debar was a town located east of the Jordan River, in the region of Gilead. The name "Lo-debar" means "no pasture" or "no word," indicating it was likely a desolate or insignificant place. This setting emphasizes Mephibosheth's lowly status and the obscurity into which he had fallen after the fall of Saul's house. The location also highlights the contrast between Mephibosheth's current situation and the royal status he was born into, setting the stage for David's act of restoration and grace.

at the house of Machir son of Ammiel."
Machir son of Ammiel was a man of influence and wealth, as indicated by his ability to provide refuge for Mephibosheth. His willingness to shelter a member of Saul's family suggests loyalty to Saul's house or a sense of compassion. Machir later appears in 2 Samuel 17:27-29, where he supports David during Absalom's rebellion, indicating his continued loyalty to David. This connection between Machir and David foreshadows the future alliance and support David would receive, illustrating the broader theme of loyalty and divine providence in David's life.

So King David had him brought
This phrase highlights King David's initiative and authority. David's actions reflect his covenant loyalty to Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. David's kindness to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son, is a demonstration of God's grace and mercy, prefiguring the grace offered through Jesus Christ. David's kingship is a type of Christ's eternal kingship, showing compassion and fulfilling promises.

from the house of Machir son of Ammiel
Machir was a man of influence and wealth, as indicated by his ability to provide refuge for Mephibosheth. This setting underscores the vulnerability of Mephibosheth, who was dependent on the kindness of others. Machir later supports David during Absalom's rebellion (2 Samuel 17:27-29), indicating his loyalty to David. The mention of Machir's lineage, "son of Ammiel," provides historical context and authenticity to the narrative, grounding it in real familial ties.

in Lo-debar
Lo-debar was a town east of the Jordan River, in the region of Gilead. The name Lo-debar means "no pasture" or "no word," suggesting a place of desolation or obscurity. This location emphasizes Mephibosheth's lowly status and separation from the royal court. Theologically, it symbolizes humanity's spiritual barrenness before being brought into the presence of the King, akin to the redemption and restoration found in Christ.

And when Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David
This phrase introduces Mephibosheth, who is the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, Israel's first king. The mention of his lineage is significant, as it highlights the covenant between David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:3-4; 1 Samuel 20:14-17). Despite Saul's pursuit of David, David honors his promise to Jonathan by showing kindness to his offspring. This act of kindness reflects the biblical principle of covenant faithfulness, which is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. The historical context is important here, as it was common for new kings to eliminate the previous king's descendants to secure their throne, yet David acts contrary to this norm.

he fell facedown in reverence
Mephibosheth's act of falling facedown signifies deep respect and submission, a common cultural practice in the ancient Near East when approaching a king or someone of high status. This gesture indicates Mephibosheth's acknowledgment of David's authority and his own vulnerable position. It also reflects the humility expected of those who come before God, as seen in other biblical accounts (e.g., Genesis 17:3, Joshua 5:14). This act of reverence can be seen as a type of worship, pointing to the ultimate reverence due to Christ, the King of Kings.

Then David said, “Mephibosheth!”
David's direct address to Mephibosheth is significant, as it shows personal recognition and acceptance. By calling him by name, David affirms Mephibosheth's identity and worth, despite his physical disability and potential political threat. This personal acknowledgment mirrors God's intimate knowledge of His people, as seen in passages like Isaiah 43:1, where God calls His people by name. It also foreshadows the personal relationship believers have with Christ, who knows His sheep by name (John 10:3).

“I am your servant,” he replied
Mephibosheth's response, "I am your servant," indicates his willingness to serve and submit to David's authority. This declaration of servitude is a common expression of loyalty and humility in the biblical narrative. It reflects the appropriate response of believers to God's grace and kindness, as seen in Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to offer themselves as living sacrifices. Mephibosheth's reply also highlights the theme of servanthood, which is central to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).

“Do not be afraid,” said David,
David's reassurance to Mephibosheth begins with a common biblical phrase, "Do not be afraid," which is often used by God or His messengers to calm those who are fearful (e.g., Genesis 15:1, Luke 1:30). This reflects David's intention to show peace and goodwill, contrasting the typical fate of a deposed king's descendants in ancient Near Eastern cultures, where new kings often eliminated potential rivals.

“for surely I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan.”
David's promise to show kindness is rooted in the covenant he made with Jonathan, Saul's son, as recorded in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. This covenant was based on mutual loyalty and love, and David's actions here demonstrate his faithfulness to that promise. The Hebrew word for "kindness" is "chesed," which implies steadfast love and mercy, reflecting God's covenantal love for His people.

I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul,
Restoring Saul's land to Mephibosheth is significant because it represents the return of Saul's estate and honor to his lineage. This act of restoration is a powerful gesture of grace and generosity, as David had no obligation to do so. It also reflects the biblical theme of restoration and redemption, seen throughout Scripture, where God restores what is lost or broken (e.g., Joel 2:25).

and you will always eat at my table.”
Eating at the king's table signifies a place of honor and acceptance, akin to being part of the royal family. This privilege not only provided for Mephibosheth's physical needs but also restored his dignity and status. It is a type of the Messianic banquet, where believers are invited to dine with Christ (Revelation 19:9). David's invitation mirrors God's invitation to all believers to fellowship with Him, highlighting themes of grace, acceptance, and community.

Mephibosheth bowed down
In ancient Near Eastern culture, bowing down was a sign of respect and submission, often performed in the presence of a king or someone of higher status. Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, was acknowledging King David's authority and expressing humility. This act reflects the cultural norms of the time, where physical gestures were significant in demonstrating one's position and intentions.

and said, “What is your servant,
By referring to himself as "your servant," Mephibosheth is adopting a posture of humility and servitude. This phrase indicates his recognition of David's kingship and his own lower status. It also reflects the biblical theme of servanthood, which is prevalent throughout Scripture, where individuals often identify themselves as servants of God or others in authority.

that you should show regard
The concept of showing regard or kindness is central to the narrative. David's actions towards Mephibosheth are motivated by his covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:14-17). This act of kindness is a demonstration of covenant faithfulness, a recurring theme in the Bible, where God and His people are called to be faithful to their promises.

for a dead dog like me?”
The term "dead dog" is a Hebrew idiom expressing extreme self-deprecation and insignificance. In the cultural and historical context, dogs were considered unclean animals, and calling oneself a "dead dog" was a way to emphasize one's lowliness and unworthiness. This phrase highlights Mephibosheth's awareness of his vulnerable position as a descendant of Saul, the former king, and his astonishment at David's grace. It also echoes the biblical theme of God's grace towards the humble and lowly, as seen in passages like Psalm 138:6 and James 4:6.

Then the king summoned Saul’s servant Ziba
David, now king, calls upon Ziba, who was a servant in Saul's household. This action reflects David's commitment to honoring his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. Ziba's role as a servant in Saul's house indicates his familiarity with Saul's family and estate, making him a key figure in the unfolding events. The summoning of Ziba also highlights the hierarchical structure of ancient Israelite society, where servants played crucial roles in the management of estates.

and said to him,
David's direct communication with Ziba underscores the importance of the message he is about to deliver. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king's words carried significant weight and authority, often resulting in immediate action. This interaction also demonstrates David's leadership style, which involved direct engagement with those who served the royal household.

“I have given to your master’s grandson
David refers to Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son and Saul's grandson. This act of giving is a fulfillment of David's promise to show kindness to Jonathan's family. The mention of "master's grandson" emphasizes the continuity of Saul's lineage and David's respect for it, despite Saul's previous enmity towards him. This gesture is a profound example of grace and mercy, reflecting the biblical theme of covenant faithfulness.

all that belonged to Saul and to all his house.
David restores Saul's estate to Mephibosheth, which includes land, wealth, and status. This restoration is significant, as it not only provides for Mephibosheth's physical needs but also reinstates his family's honor and legacy. In the broader biblical narrative, this act prefigures the restoration and inheritance themes found in the New Testament, where believers are restored to a right relationship with God and receive an eternal inheritance through Christ. The restoration of Saul's estate also serves as a type of Christ's redemptive work, where what was lost is fully restored.

You and your sons and servants are to work the ground for him
This directive is given by King David to Ziba, a servant of Saul's household. The command reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where land and its produce were central to sustenance and wealth. The phrase underscores the importance of land inheritance and stewardship in Israelite culture, as well as the responsibility of servants and family members to support the household. This act of working the land for Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul, is a demonstration of David's loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son, and reflects the biblical principle of honoring commitments and showing kindness to the house of one's friend.

and bring in the harvest,
Harvest time was a significant period in ancient Israel, marking the culmination of a season's labor and God's provision. The act of bringing in the harvest symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promise of provision and abundance. In a broader biblical context, harvest is often used metaphorically to describe the gathering of God's people or the final judgment (e.g., Matthew 9:37-38, Revelation 14:15). Here, it signifies the practical care and sustenance provided to Mephibosheth, ensuring his well-being and security.

so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat.
This phrase highlights the provision for Mephibosheth, ensuring his physical needs are met. It reflects the biblical theme of God's care for the vulnerable and marginalized, as Mephibosheth was disabled and unable to provide for himself (2 Samuel 4:4). The provision of food is a basic necessity, and David's command ensures that Mephibosheth is not only remembered but actively cared for, illustrating the biblical call to care for those in need (James 1:27).

But Mephibosheth, your master’s grandson, is always to eat at my table.”
David's invitation for Mephibosheth to eat at his table is a profound act of grace and inclusion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and acceptance. By granting Mephibosheth a permanent place at the royal table, David elevates his status and restores his dignity. This act prefigures the grace of Christ, who invites the spiritually poor and broken to His table (Luke 14:13-14). It also fulfills David's covenant with Jonathan to show kindness to his family (1 Samuel 20:14-17).

Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
This detail about Ziba's household indicates his capacity to fulfill David's command. The mention of his sons and servants suggests a well-established and resourceful household, capable of managing the agricultural responsibilities assigned by David. It also reflects the social structure of the time, where large families and servant networks were common in managing estates. This structure allowed for the efficient operation of land and resources, ensuring that Mephibosheth's needs would be met without burdening David's own resources.

And Ziba said to the king,
Ziba was a servant of the house of Saul, and his interaction with King David highlights the transition of loyalty from Saul's lineage to David's reign. This reflects the broader theme of God's providence in establishing David's kingdom. Ziba's role is significant as he becomes a key figure in the care of Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson.

“Your servant will do all that my lord the king has commanded.”
Ziba's response demonstrates obedience and submission to King David's authority, which is a recurring theme in the Davidic narrative. This obedience can be seen as a reflection of the expected loyalty to God's anointed king, paralleling the believer's submission to God's will. It also sets the stage for future events where Ziba's loyalty is tested.

So Mephibosheth ate at David’s table
Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, represents the grace and kindness of David, who honors his covenant with Jonathan by caring for his son. Eating at the king's table symbolizes acceptance, provision, and restoration of status. This act of kindness prefigures the grace extended to believers, who are invited to partake in the blessings of God's kingdom.

like one of the king’s own sons.
David's treatment of Mephibosheth as one of his own sons illustrates the theme of adoption and inclusion, which is echoed in the New Testament where believers are adopted into God's family through Christ. This phrase underscores the radical nature of David's grace, as Mephibosheth, once an enemy by lineage, is now treated as family, reflecting the transformative power of divine grace.

And Mephibosheth had a young son named Mica
Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, represents the continuation of Saul's lineage. His son, Mica, signifies hope and the preservation of Jonathan's line despite the fall of Saul's house. The name "Mica" means "Who is like God?" which reflects a common theme in Hebrew names that honor God's uniqueness and sovereignty. This phrase highlights the fulfillment of David's promise to Jonathan to show kindness to his descendants (1 Samuel 20:14-17). The presence of Mica also underscores the theme of God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant, even from a fallen dynasty.

and all who dwelt in the house of Ziba were servants of Mephibosheth
Ziba was originally a servant of Saul's household, and David appointed him to manage Mephibosheth's estate (2 Samuel 9:9-10). This arrangement reflects the cultural practice of maintaining the estates of noble families through trusted servants. The phrase indicates the restoration of Mephibosheth's status and inheritance, as David honors his covenant with Jonathan by ensuring Mephibosheth's provision and protection. This act of kindness by David can be seen as a type of Christ's grace, where the undeserving are given a place of honor and provision. The loyalty of Ziba's household to Mephibosheth also illustrates the biblical principle of servanthood and stewardship, as seen in other scriptures like Matthew 25:21, where faithful service is commended.

So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem
Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, resided in Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Israel. This location signifies a place of honor and protection under King David's reign. Jerusalem, known as the City of David, was the capital established by David, symbolizing unity and God's covenant with Israel. Mephibosheth's presence there reflects David's commitment to his covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:14-17), showcasing the king's loyalty and mercy.

because he always ate at the king’s table
Eating at the king's table was a privilege reserved for those in the king's favor, signifying acceptance, provision, and status. This act of kindness by David fulfills his promise to Jonathan and demonstrates the king's grace and generosity. It also prefigures the Messianic banquet, where believers are invited to dine with Christ (Revelation 19:9). This gesture highlights the theme of covenant faithfulness and the restoration of honor to Mephibosheth despite his grandfather Saul's enmity with David.

and he was lame in both feet
Mephibosheth's physical condition is a reminder of his vulnerability and dependence. His lameness resulted from an accident during his childhood (2 Samuel 4:4), symbolizing human frailty and the consequences of a fallen world. Despite his disability, David's acceptance of Mephibosheth at his table illustrates God's grace, which is extended to all, regardless of their weaknesses or past. This mirrors the Christian belief in spiritual restoration and inclusion in God's family, regardless of one's condition or background.