2 Samuel 9:10
Thou therefore, and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in the fruits, that thy master's son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
2 Samuel 9:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of 2 Samuel in the Bible outlines the responsibilities of Ziba and his household towards Mephibosheth, the son of King David's late friend Jonathan. Ziba, his sons, and his servants are instructed to till the land and bring in the fruits for Mephibosheth, so that he may have food to eat. This highlights the importance of caring for those who are unable to provide for themselves, and the duty of others to support them in their time of need. The verse also reveals the special treatment given to Mephibosheth, as he is granted a permanent place at King David's table, symbolizing the high regard and honor bestowed upon him by the king. Ziba's large household of fifteen sons and twenty servants underscores his wealth and ability to carry out the tasks assigned to him. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness, generosity, and taking care of those who are less fortunate, qualities that are fundamental in the teachings of the Bible.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see a contrast between the treatment of two individuals: the master's son and Mephibosheth. While the master's son, as the rightful heir, is entitled to the fruits of the land and the services rendered by Ziba and his household, Mephibosheth is singled out for special treatment. Despite his physical disability, Mephibosheth is granted a unique privilege - to eat bread at the table of the king. This act of kindness towards Mephibosheth reflects the grace and mercy of God, who often shows favor to the marginalized and vulnerable. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of unexpected blessings and the principle of God's favor being extended to those who are least likely to receive it. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are not our ways, and that His mercy is beyond our understanding.
2 Samuel 9:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And thou shalt till the land for him, thou, and thy sons, and thy servants; and thou shalt bring in [the fruits], that thy master's son may have bread to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
World English Bible
You shall till the land for him, you, and your sons, and your servants; and you shall bring in the harvest, that your master’s son may have bread to eat: but Mephibosheth your master’s son shall eat bread always at my table.” Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
Douay-Rheims
Thou therefore and the sons and thy servants shall till the land for him: and thou shalt bring in food for thy master's son, that he may be maintained: and Miphiboseth the son of thy master shall always eat bread at my table. And Siba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou therefore and thy sonnes and thy seruantes shall till the lande for him, and bring in that thy masters sonne may haue foode to eate. And Mephibosheth thy masters sonne shall eate bread alway at my table (nowe Ziba had fifteene sonnes, and twentie seruants)