Bible Figure
Mephibosheth
biblical character (Second Book of Samuel)
Mephibosheth son of Jonathan was Saul's grandson, crippled in childhood, whom David treated with covenant kindness for Jonathan's sake.
Biography
Mephibosheth was five years old when news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths caused his nurse to flee with him; he fell and became lame in both feet. Years later David sought someone from Saul's house to whom he could show kindness because of Jonathan. He restored Saul's property to Mephibosheth and gave him a permanent place at the royal table. During Absalom's rebellion, Ziba accused Mephibosheth of disloyalty, but Mephibosheth later claimed Ziba had deceived and abandoned him. David divided the property between them. Mephibosheth expressed concern chiefly that David had returned safely.
Biblical Significance
Mephibosheth is a major example of David's covenant loyalty to Jonathan. His welcome at the king's table demonstrates kindness extended to a vulnerable member of a former rival dynasty.