Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, is a significant figure in the narrative of King David's reign. His account is a testament to the enduring covenant between David and Jonathan, as well as a demonstration of David's commitment to justice and kindness.

Background and Early Life

Mephibosheth was born into the royal family of Israel, the son of Jonathan, who was the beloved friend of David and the son of King Saul. His life took a tragic turn at a young age. When news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths at the Battle of Mount Gilboa reached the royal household, Mephibosheth's nurse fled with him in haste. In her panic, she dropped the child, resulting in a lifelong disability: "He was five years old when the news about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel, and his nurse picked him up and fled. But as she hurried to leave, he fell and became lame" (2 Samuel 4:4).

David's Kindness to Mephibosheth

Years later, after David had established his kingdom, he sought to honor his covenant with Jonathan by showing kindness to his descendants. David inquired, "Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?" (2 Samuel 9:1). Ziba, a servant from Saul's household, informed David of Mephibosheth's existence, who was living in Lo-debar, a place of obscurity and desolation.

David summoned Mephibosheth to his court, where the young man approached the king with humility and fear. David reassured him, saying, "Do not be afraid, for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table" (2 Samuel 9:7). This act of restoration not only returned Mephibosheth's rightful inheritance but also elevated him to a position of honor within the king's household.

Restoration of Property

The restoration of Mephibosheth's property was comprehensive. David instructed Ziba, along with his sons and servants, to farm the land for Mephibosheth, ensuring that he would have a steady income and sustenance. "You and your sons and servants are to farm the land for him and bring in the harvest, so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat" (2 Samuel 9:10). Despite his physical limitations, Mephibosheth was granted a place of dignity and provision, reflecting David's loyalty to Jonathan and his commitment to righteousness.

Later Events and Challenges

Mephibosheth's life was not without further challenges. During Absalom's rebellion, Ziba deceived David by claiming that Mephibosheth had stayed in Jerusalem to seek the restoration of Saul's kingdom. As a result, David granted all of Mephibosheth's property to Ziba. However, upon David's return to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth clarified the situation, explaining that he had been betrayed by Ziba and was unable to accompany David due to his disability. In response, David divided the land between Ziba and Mephibosheth, to which Mephibosheth humbly replied, "Let him take everything, now that my lord the king has returned safely" (2 Samuel 19:30).

Mephibosheth's account is a powerful illustration of grace, loyalty, and the fulfillment of covenant promises. Through David's actions, the legacy of Jonathan was honored, and Mephibosheth was given a place of security and respect within the kingdom of Israel.2 Samuel 9:9,10
Then the king called to Ziba, Saul's servant, and said to him, I have given to your master's son all that pertained to Saul and to all his house.
Nave's Topical Index

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

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
... It is now restored to its original state; and we hope ... for his contemning of the works
of the Son of God ... he pleadeth against him that right and property that he ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the work of jesus christ.htm

Who was Jonathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What does it mean that God is merciful? | GotQuestions.org

What is brotherly kindness? | GotQuestions.org

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