What does the Bible say about Mephibosheth?

Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul. His life is a powerful picture of mercy, covenant faithfulness, and restoration. Though he began in tragedy and obscurity, he was later honored by King David because of David’s covenant with Jonathan.

Mephibosheth first appears in 2 Samuel 4:4:

“Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son who was lame in his feet. He was five years old when the news about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel; and his nurse took him up and fled… and he fell and became lame.”

When Saul and Jonathan died in battle, Mephibosheth’s nurse fled with him, fearing for his safety. During their escape, he was injured and left crippled for life. He later lived in obscurity in the house of Machir in Lo Debar.

Years later, after David became king, he sought to honor his covenant with Jonathan. 2 Samuel 9:3–7 records:

“Then King David sent and brought him out of the house of Machir… So Mephibosheth… came to David… Then David said, ‘Do not fear, for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake… You shall eat bread at my table continually.’”

David restored Saul’s land to Mephibosheth and gave him a permanent place at the king’s table. Despite being physically disabled and from the former royal line, David treated him with honor because of the covenant made with Jonathan.

Later, during Absalom’s rebellion, Mephibosheth remained loyal to David, though his servant Ziba falsely accused him (2 Samuel 16 and 19). David ultimately divided the land between them, but Mephibosheth responded humbly, showing his loyalty had never been about property:

“Let him take it all, inasmuch as my lord the king has come back in peace to his own house.” (2 Samuel 19:30)

Mephibosheth’s life highlights the power of covenant love, humility, and undeserved kindness. He was remembered not for what he could offer but for the grace shown to him because of another.

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