Topical Encyclopedia Ish-Bosheth, the son of King Saul, is a significant yet often overlooked figure in the narrative of Israel's monarchy. His reign as king over Israel, excluding Judah, marks a turbulent period in the history of the united kingdom. One of the notable events during his reign involves the restoration of Michal, David's first wife, to David.Background Michal, the daughter of Saul, was initially given to David as a wife after he triumphed over the Philistines, fulfilling Saul's condition of bringing back the foreskins of a hundred Philistines (1 Samuel 18:25-27). However, during David's flight from Saul's wrath, Michal was given to another man, Paltiel (1 Samuel 25:44). The Political Context Following Saul's death, the kingdom of Israel was divided. David was anointed king over Judah, while Ish-Bosheth, supported by Abner, Saul's military commander, was made king over the rest of Israel (2 Samuel 2:8-10). This division set the stage for a prolonged conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David. The Restoration of Michal The restoration of Michal to David is a pivotal moment in the reconciliation process between the two houses. In 2 Samuel 3, Abner, seeking to strengthen his position and possibly to unify the kingdom under David, initiates negotiations with David. As part of these negotiations, David demands the return of Michal, stating, "Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed to myself for a hundred Philistine foreskins" (2 Samuel 3:14). Ish-Bosheth complies with David's demand, sending for Michal and taking her from her current husband, Paltiel. The narrative poignantly describes Paltiel following her, weeping as he goes, until Abner orders him to return (2 Samuel 3:15-16). This act of restoring Michal is not merely a personal matter but a political maneuver, symbolizing David's legitimate claim to Saul's legacy and the throne of Israel. Significance The restoration of Michal to David serves multiple purposes. It reinforces David's rightful claim to the throne by re-establishing his marital connection to Saul's house. It also demonstrates David's political acumen in securing his position and legitimacy as king over all Israel. Furthermore, it highlights the complex interplay of personal relationships and political alliances in the biblical narrative. Conclusion Ish-Bosheth's role in the restoration of Michal underscores the intricate dynamics of power, loyalty, and legitimacy in the early monarchy of Israel. While his reign was ultimately short-lived, his actions in this episode contribute to the unfolding of God's providential plan for David's kingship and the eventual unification of the tribes of Israel under David's rule. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 3:14-16And David sent messengers to Ishbosheth Saul's son, saying, Deliver me my wife Michal, which I espoused to me for an hundred foreskins of the Philistines. Nave's Topical Index Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the story of David and Ish-Bosheth? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Rechab and Baanah? | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Abner and Joab? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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