2 Samuel 9:2
And there was of the house of Saul a servant whose name was Ziba. And when they had called him unto David, the king said unto him, Art thou Ziba? And he said, Thy servant is he.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The historical setting of 2 Samuel 9 occurs during David's reign (circa 1010-970 BCE) over Israel's united monarchy. Archaeological discoveries, including the Tel Dan inscription mentioning the 'House of David,' corroborate biblical historicity. Ancient Near Eastern customs regarding covenant faithfulness, grace provide crucial background. The geopolitical situation involved regional powers—Philistines, Ammonites, Arameans, Moabites, Edomites—as David consolidated and expanded Israel's territory. Cultural practices concerning kingship, warfare, covenant relationships, family dynamics, and religious observance differed significantly from modern Western contexts, requiring careful attention to avoid anachronistic interpretation while extracting timeless theological principles applicable across cultures and eras.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage deepen your understanding of covenant faithfulness, grace?
- What does this verse reveal about God's character, and how should that shape your worship and obedience?
- In what specific ways can you apply this truth to your current circumstances and relationships this week?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And there was of the house of Saul a servant whose name was Ziba. And when they had called him unto David, the king said unto him, Art thou Ziba? And he said, Thy servant is he.
This verse contributes to the narrative of Kindness to Mephibosheth, emphasizing covenant faithfulness, grace. David's kindness to Mephibosheth illustrates chesed (חֶסֶד, covenant faithfulness/loyal love). This grace shown to Jonathan's crippled son demonstrates covenant loyalty transcending political expedience. The narrative foreshadows God's grace toward spiritually crippled humanity. Cross-references to David and Jonathan's covenant (1 Samuel 18:3, 20:14-17) and New Testament grace themes enrich understanding.