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Verse Takeaways
1
A Strategic Pause in the Story
Commentators explain that this verse is a deliberate narrative insertion. It's not a random detail but serves two main purposes: first, to show that with Ish-bosheth's impending death, Saul's royal line is effectively finished, as the only remaining heir is disabled. Second, it prepares the reader for the important story of David's kindness to Mephibosheth in chapter 9.
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Book Overview
2 Samuel
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Commentaries
4
Albert Barnes
On 2 Samuel 4:4
18th Century
Theologian
This mention of Mephibosheth seems to be inserted here partly to show that with the death of Ish-bosheth the cause of the house of Saul became hope…
Charles Ellicott
On 2 Samuel 4:4
19th Century
Bishop
A son that was lame. — The reason for introducing this account of Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, here is to show that because he wa…
John Gill
On 2 Samuel 4:4
17th Century
Pastor
And Jonathan, Saul's son
His eldest son, who died at the same time with him:
had a son [that was]…
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Matthew Henry
On 2 Samuel 4:1–7
17th Century
Minister
See how Ishbosheth was murdered! When those difficulties dispirit us, which should sharpen our efforts, we betray both our heavenly crowns and our …