Topical Encyclopedia Meribbaal, also known as Mephibosheth, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative of King David's reign. He is the son of Jonathan and the grandson of King Saul, Israel's first king. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.Name and Identity The name Meribbaal means "contender with Baal" or "opponent of Baal," reflecting a theophoric element that aligns with the Israelite tradition of naming children in a way that honors God. However, in the biblical narrative, he is more commonly referred to as Mephibosheth, which means "from the mouth of shame." This name change is likely due to the cultural and religious sensitivities surrounding the name Baal, a Canaanite deity. Early Life and Disability Meribbaal's life took a tragic turn at a young age. After the death of his father Jonathan and grandfather Saul in battle, his nurse fled with him to escape the Philistines. In her haste, she dropped him, resulting in a lifelong disability. As recorded in 2 Samuel 4:4 , "Jonathan, the son of Saul, had a son who was lame in both feet. He was five years old when the news about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel. His nurse picked him up and fled, but as she hurried to leave, he fell and became disabled. His name was Mephibosheth." David's Kindness Despite the enmity between Saul and David, David sought to show kindness to the house of Saul for the sake of his covenant with Jonathan. In 2 Samuel 9, David inquires if there is anyone left of Saul's house to whom he can show God's kindness. Upon learning of Meribbaal's existence, David restores to him all the land that belonged to Saul and invites him to eat at the king's table regularly. This act of kindness is a profound demonstration of David's loyalty and grace, as seen in 2 Samuel 9:7 : "Do not be afraid," David said to him, "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." Role and Significance Meribbaal's presence at David's table symbolizes the reconciliation and mercy extended by David, reflecting the covenantal faithfulness that is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative. His account also highlights the importance of loyalty and the honoring of commitments, as David honors his covenant with Jonathan despite the potential political risks. Later Life and Legacy Meribbaal's later life is marked by political intrigue during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. Ziba, Meribbaal's servant, deceives David by claiming that Meribbaal is seeking to reclaim Saul's throne. However, upon David's return to Jerusalem, Meribbaal clarifies his loyalty to David, as recorded in 2 Samuel 19:24-30. David, recognizing the complexity of the situation, divides the land between Ziba and Meribbaal, further illustrating the challenges of leadership and justice. Meribbaal's account is a testament to the enduring themes of grace, loyalty, and the fulfillment of promises, which are central to the biblical narrative. His life, though marked by personal tragedy, becomes a canvas for the display of divine kindness and covenantal faithfulness through the actions of King David. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Meribbaalhe that resists Baal; rebellion Easton's Bible Dictionary Contender with Baal, (1 Chronicles 8:34; 9:40), elsewhere called Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 4:4), the son of Jonathan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MERIB-BAALmer-ib-ba'-al (meribhba`al; also meri-bha`al, "Baal contends"): The spelling varies in a single verse; 1 Chronicles 9:40 contains the name twice: first, in the first form above; second, in the second form. The name is given also in 1 Chronicles 8:34. It is the other name of MEPHIBOSHETH (2) (which see). Library The King. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Acts vi. 8 Thesaurus Meribbaal (2 Occurrences)... Henry Wallace. Multi-Version Concordance Meribbaal (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 8:34 And the son of Jonathan was Meribbaal; and Meribbaal begat Micah. (KJV). ... /m/meribbaal.htm - 8k Begat (112 Occurrences) Merib-baal (2 Occurrences) Ziba (13 Occurrences) Machirite (1 Occurrence) Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence) Machir (20 Occurrences) Melech (7 Occurrences) Pithon (2 Occurrences) Jonathan (109 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Meribbaal (2 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 8:34 1 Chronicles 9:40 Subtopics Related Terms |
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