2 Samuel 9 Study Notes

9:1-5 David was determined to fulfill his promise regarding Saul’s family, particularly for Jonathan’s sake (1Sm 20:14-15; 23:17-18). The phrase Jonathan’s son who was injured in both feet refers to Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s previously mentioned son (4:4); his name also appears as “Merib-baal” (1Ch 8:34). Lo-debar lay east of the Jordan River in Gilead. Machir son of Ammiel was an influential man in that region who cared for Saul’s son (17:27).

9:6 Mephibosheth fell facedown and paid homage despite the physical challenge of doing so.

9:7 David told Mephibosheth, Don’t be afraid. Any descendant of Saul might expect the new king would kill him (1Sm 24:20-22). The restoration of Saul’s fields near Gibeah would provide Mephibosheth income for future years, plus the king granted him the privilege of eating regularly with him in the palace.

9:8 Mephibosheth’s question was a standard way of replying humbly; he was not considering turning down David’s offer (cp. 7:18). Perhaps Mephibosheth’s words reminded David of his same words to Saul (1Sm 24:14).

9:9-11 Ziba was given the task of caring for Mephibosheth’s restored estate, and he submitted to David’s command at first. However, he later attempted to secure the estate for himself and his fifteen sons (16:1-4; 19:17,24-30). The phrase Mephibosheth ate at David’s table just like one of the king’s sons is a touching comment in light of his father Jonathan’s earlier prediction to David (1Sm 23:17)—a prediction that did not come true because Jonathan died in battle (1Sm 31:2). David thus took the son (Mephibosheth) of his brother by covenant (Jonathan) and treated him as a son.

9:12-13 Mica would later have four sons of his own (1Ch 8:35).