2 Samuel 9:1

David and Mephibosheth · 2 Samuel 9:1–13
Read 2 Samuel 9

Translations

Modern
Then David asked, “Is there anyone left from the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for the sake of Jonathan?”
Traditional
And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?
Literal
And David said, “Is there one yet who is left to the house of Saul, that I may do for him kindness for the sake of Jonathan?”
Latin
Et dixit David: Putasne est aliquis qui remanserit de domo Saul, ut faciam cum eo misericordiam propter Jonathan?

Original

Hebrew
English
Then David asked, “Is there anyone left from the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for the sake of Jonathan?”

Notes

  • show kindness: The Hebrew word khesed refers to covenant loyalty and faithfulness (steadfast commitment within a relationship). It often describes God’s faithful commitment to his people. It can also describe deep devotion and loyalty between two people.

    Here, David uses khesed in a way that echoes the covenant of friendship he made with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:12–17).

  • for the sake of Jonathan: David showed kindness because of his promise to Jonathan. Mephibosheth was Saul’s only remaining descendant and Jonathan’s only son.

David showed mercy to Mephibosheth, the disabled son of Jonathan. This account appears between reports of David’s military victories (2 Samuel 8:1–18, 10). Its placement shows that David not only achieved success in war but also cared for individuals and acted with compassion.

Theme notes and profiles

David

Events

People

David: Anointed king of Israel, ancestor of Jesus Christ Jonathan: Eldest son of King Saul and friend of David Saul: First king of Israel, anointed by Samuel

Glossary

David Kindness Kings, Books of First and Second Mephibosheth Samuel, Books of First and Second

Topics

Friendship: David and Jonathan Jonathan: Son of Saul: Son of, Cared for by David Kindness: David to Mephibosheth Mephibosheth: Son of Jonathan: David Entertains Him at his Table Servant: Good of Ziba Ziba: His Fidelity to Mephibosheth