Bible Strands
2 Samuel 9:13
So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, because he always ate at the king’s table, and he was lame in both feet.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The narrative closes the account of David’s covenant loyalty to Jonathan by locating Mephibosheth in Jerusalem following the king’s decree to provide for him. The passage functions as a third-person historical summary rather than a spoken address.
The words — The Hebrew יֹשֵׁב (yo.Shev) means “dwelling” or “residing,” and תָּמִיד (ta.Mid) translates literally to “continually” or “always.” These terms anchor the verse’s description of Mephibosheth’s permanent residence and daily provision.
The thread — This narrative of royal provision and physical disability parallels the treatment of vulnerable kin in 2 Samuel 9:7 and 9:10, where David commands the restoration of Saul’s estate and the employment of Ziba’s household. The theme of sustained care at the king’s table extends through the chapter’s account of covenant loyalty.
Why it lands — The verse demands recognition that covenant commitment requires tangible, ongoing support for those who cannot reciprocate. It establishes that loyalty is measured by consistent action, not merely by verbal promise.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem: for he did eat continually at the king’s table; and was lame on both his feet.
Cross-references
- 2 Samuel 9:7 “Do not be afraid,” said David, “for surely I will 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.”
- 2 Samuel 9:3 So the king asked, “Is there anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I can show the kindness of God?” Ziba answered, “There is still Jonathan’s son, who is lame in both feet.”
- 2 Samuel 9:10 You and your sons and servants are to work the ground for him and bring in the harvest, so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat. But Mephibosheth, your master’s grandson, is always to eat at my table.” Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.