2 Samuel 9:9

Then the king summoned Saul's servant Ziba and said to him, "I have given to your master's grandson all that belonged to Saul and to all his house.

Study Bible

Then the king summoned
This phrase introduces King David's authoritative action. The Hebrew word for "summoned" is קָרָא (qara), which means to call or proclaim. In the context of ancient Israel, a king's summons was not merely a request but a command that carried the weight of royal authority. David's action here reflects his role as a just and merciful ruler, seeking to fulfill his covenant with Jonathan by extending kindness to his family.

Saul’s servant Ziba
Ziba is identified as a servant of Saul, the former king. The mention of Ziba highlights the continuity and transition of power from Saul to David. Historically, Ziba's role as a servant in Saul's household would have been significant, as he would have been familiar with the affairs and properties of Saul's family. This context underscores the trust David places in Ziba to manage the affairs of Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son.

and said to him
This phrase indicates direct communication from David to Ziba. The Hebrew verb אָמַר (amar) is used here, which means to say or speak. This direct address signifies the importance of the message and the personal responsibility Ziba is about to receive. It also reflects David's leadership style, which involves clear and direct communication.

I have given
The act of giving here is significant. The Hebrew verb נָתַן (natan) means to give, bestow, or grant. David's decision to give back Saul's property to his grandson is an act of grace and restoration. It reflects the biblical principle of hesed, or loving-kindness, which is a central theme in David's relationship with Jonathan's family.

to your master’s grandson
This phrase identifies Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul. The use of "master's grandson" emphasizes the familial connection to Saul, the former king. In the historical context, this act of kindness towards a potential rival's descendant is extraordinary and demonstrates David's commitment to his covenant with Jonathan, as well as his desire to honor Saul's legacy.

all that belonged to Saul
David's restoration of Saul's property to Mephibosheth is comprehensive. The phrase "all that belonged to Saul" indicates the full extent of the inheritance, including lands, wealth, and status. This act of restoration is not only a fulfillment of David's promise but also a reflection of God's restorative justice, where what was lost is returned and relationships are healed.

and to all his house
The inclusion of "all his house" extends the restoration beyond Saul's personal possessions to the entire household, which would include servants, lands, and any other holdings. This phrase underscores the completeness of David's generosity and the thoroughness of his commitment to Jonathan's family. It also reflects the biblical theme of covenant faithfulness, where God's promises are fulfilled in abundance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart after God and his leadership. In this passage, he demonstrates kindness and loyalty to Jonathan's family.

2. Ziba
A servant of Saul's household, who becomes an intermediary between King David and Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son.

3. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, who is shown kindness by David despite being from the former king's lineage.

4. Saul
The first king of Israel, whose household is being restored in part through David's actions.

5. Jonathan
Saul's son and David's close friend, whose covenant with David leads to the latter's kindness towards Mephibosheth.

Teaching Points

Covenant Faithfulness
David's actions are a testament to the importance of keeping promises and honoring covenants, even when it is not convenient or expected.

Grace and Kindness
David's kindness to Mephibosheth is an example of grace—unmerited favor—reflecting God's grace towards us.

Restoration and Redemption
The restoration of Saul's land to Mephibosheth symbolizes God's redemptive work in our lives, restoring what was lost.

Servant Leadership
David's leadership is marked by humility and service, prioritizing the well-being of others, even those from a rival house.

Breaking Barriers
David's actions break social and political barriers, showing that God's love transcends human divisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's treatment of Mephibosheth reflect the covenant he made with Jonathan, and what does this teach us about the importance of keeping our promises?

2. In what ways does David's kindness to Mephibosheth mirror the grace that God extends to us, and how can we apply this in our relationships?

3. How does the restoration of Saul's land to Mephibosheth illustrate the concept of redemption, and what areas of your life need God's restorative power?

4. What can we learn from David's example of servant leadership, and how can we implement these principles in our own leadership roles?

5. How does David's breaking of social and political barriers challenge us to reach out to those who are different from us, and what practical steps can we take to do so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 20
This chapter details the covenant between David and Jonathan, which is the foundation for David's actions in 2 Samuel 9.

2 Samuel 4:4
Provides background on Mephibosheth's condition and his lineage, explaining why he is in need of David's kindness.

Luke 6:35
Jesus teaches about loving your enemies and doing good, which parallels David's actions towards Saul's household.

Romans 12:20
Paul speaks about showing kindness to those who might be considered adversaries, reflecting David's treatment of Mephibosheth.