Background and Lineage:
Mephibosheth, also known as Merib-Baal, was the son of Jonathan and the grandson of King Saul, Israel's first king. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. Mephibosheth's life was marked by both tragedy and grace, reflecting the tumultuous period of transition from the house of Saul to the house of David.

Early Life and Tragedy:
Mephibosheth's early life was marred by a tragic accident. At the age of five, upon hearing the news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths at the Battle of Mount Gilboa, his nurse fled with him in haste. In her hurry, Mephibosheth fell and became lame in both feet (2 Samuel 4:4). This physical disability would define much of his life, as it rendered him dependent on others and unable to claim any military or political power.

David's Kindness:
Despite the enmity between the house of Saul and David, Mephibosheth found favor in the eyes of King David. David, honoring his covenant with Jonathan, sought to show kindness to any remaining members of Saul's family. Upon learning of Mephibosheth's existence, David summoned him to his court. In a remarkable act of grace, David restored to Mephibosheth all the land that had belonged to Saul and invited him to eat at the king's table regularly, treating him as one of his own sons (2 Samuel 9:1-13).

Life at David's Court:
Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem and enjoyed the privileges of dining at the king's table. Ziba, a servant of Saul's household, was appointed to manage Mephibosheth's estate and ensure that the land produced for him. This arrangement provided Mephibosheth with both security and honor, despite his physical limitations.

The Absalom Rebellion:
During Absalom's rebellion against David, Mephibosheth's loyalty was called into question. Ziba, his servant, met David with provisions and claimed that Mephibosheth had stayed in Jerusalem, hoping to reclaim his grandfather's throne (2 Samuel 16:1-4). Upon David's return to power, Mephibosheth defended himself, explaining that he had been deceived by Ziba and was unable to join David due to his disability. He expressed his gratitude for David's past kindness and showed no concern for the material loss, indicating his loyalty to the king (2 Samuel 19:24-30).

Legacy:
Mephibosheth's account is a testament to the themes of covenant loyalty, grace, and the reversal of fortunes. Despite his physical challenges and the political upheaval surrounding him, Mephibosheth experienced the kindness of a king who honored his promise to a friend. His life serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of covenantal relationships and the power of grace to transform lives.1 Chronicles 8:34
And the son of Jonathan was Meribbaal; and Meribbaal begat Micah.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 9:40
And the son of Jonathan was Meribbaal: and Meribbaal begat Micah.
Nave's Topical Index

The King.
... the mangled corpses of Saul and Jonathan the mantle ... Baal (1 Chronicles 9:36); his
son was really ... So also Mephibosheth was properly Meribbaal (Fighter for Baal ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/the life of david/ix the king.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... as Ishbaal and Meribbaal are into Ishbosheth and Mephibosheth respectively), in ... They
there set up for themselves the ephod: and Jonathan, the son of Gershom ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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