Albert Barnes Commentary 2 Samuel 9

David reaped the fruit of his kindness to Mephibosheth, for when he fled from Absalom, Machir, son of Ammiel, was one of those who generously provided for him and his army. According to 1 Chronicles 3:5, Ammiel (whose name is given in reverse as Eliam in 2 Samuel 11:3) was the father of Bath-sheba. If this is the same Ammiel, then Machir would be Bath-sheba’s brother. However, the name is fairly common (Numbers 13:12; 1 Chronicles 26:5, and other passages).

Lo-debar was evidently east of the Jordan River and near Ish-bosheth’s capital, Mahanaim (2 Samuel 17:27), but it has not been identified by any modern traveler. Some think it is likely the same place as Debir (Joshua 13:26).

Mephibosheth - Also called Merib-baal (and Meri-baal, probably by a clerical error, 1 Chronicles 9:40). The two names seem to have the same meaning: "Bosheth," meaning "shame," is the equivalent of "Baal," and "Mephi" (scattering or destroying) is equivalent to "Merib" (contending with). Compare Ish-bosheth and Esh-baal, Jerub-baal and Jerub-besheth.

He fell on his face - He did this in fear. Such generosity to a fallen rival, as David showed by restoring his paternal property to him, seemed scarcely credible.

Mephibosheth’s humility of expression, even in the mouth of an Easterner, is painful. It was perhaps in part the result of his helpless lameness and the other misfortunes of his life.

A dead dog - The wild dogs of the East, which still abound in every town, are the natural objects of contempt and dislike.

Saul’s servant—Josephus calls him one of Saul’s freedmen. The difference this would make in Ziba’s position would only be that instead of paying the fruits of the confiscated land to David, he would have to pay them to Mephibosheth.

Fifteen sons... — See 2 Samuel 19:17, marginal reference.