Lo-Debar is a city mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, located in the region traditionally associated with the tribe of Manasseh, east of the Jordan River. The name "Lo-Debar" is often interpreted to mean "no pasture" or "no word," suggesting a place of desolation or lack of communication. This city is primarily noted in the narrative of King David and Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul.

Biblical References:

Lo-Debar is prominently mentioned in the context of King David's kindness to Mephibosheth. After David had established his kingdom and subdued his enemies, he sought to show kindness to the house of Saul for the sake of his covenant with Jonathan. In 2 Samuel 9:4-5 , David inquires about any remaining descendants of Saul to whom he could show God's kindness. Ziba, a servant of Saul's household, informs David that Mephibosheth resides in Lo-Debar:

"Where is he?" replied the king. And Ziba said, "Indeed, he is in Lo-Debar, at the house of Machir son of Ammiel." So King David had him brought from the house of Machir son of Ammiel in Lo-Debar.

This passage highlights Lo-Debar as a place of refuge for Mephibosheth, who was living in obscurity and possibly in fear of retribution from the new king. The city served as a sanctuary for him until David's invitation to the royal court, where he was restored to a place of honor and given a permanent seat at the king's table.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Lo-Debar's exact location is not definitively known, but it is generally believed to have been situated in the region of Gilead, which was part of the territory allotted to the half-tribe of Manasseh. This area was known for its rugged terrain and pastoral lands, although the name "Lo-Debar" suggests a contrast to the fertile surroundings typically associated with Gilead.

The city is also mentioned in 2 Samuel 17:27-29, during Absalom's rebellion against David. As David fled from Jerusalem, he was supported by several individuals, including Machir of Lo-Debar, who provided supplies for the king and his people. This act of loyalty underscores the significance of Lo-Debar as a place of support and refuge during times of political upheaval.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Lo-Debar represents a place of humility and obscurity from which God can elevate individuals according to His purposes. Mephibosheth's account is a powerful illustration of grace and redemption, as David's actions reflect God's covenantal faithfulness and kindness. Despite Mephibosheth's physical disability and his association with a fallen dynasty, he is brought from Lo-Debar to the king's table, symbolizing restoration and acceptance.

Lo-Debar serves as a reminder of God's ability to transform desolation into blessing and to fulfill His promises through unexpected means. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's providence and to extend grace to others, following the example set by David in his dealings with Mephibosheth.2 Samuel 9:4,5
And the king said to him, Where is he? And Ziba said to the king, Behold, he is in the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, in Lodebar.
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2 Samuel 17:27
And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,
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