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2 Samuel 9:3

And the king said, Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may shew the kindness of God unto him? And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan hath yet a son, which is lame on his feet.

2 Samuel 9:3 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of 2 Samuel in the Bible highlights an important theme of kindness and redemption. In this passage, King David is shown as a compassionate ruler who wants to show kindness to someone from the house of Saul, his predecessor. Despite the troubled history between the families of David and Saul, David seeks to extend kindness as a reflection of God's grace. When Ziba informs the king about Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, who is lame, it further emphasizes the theme of compassion and care for the less fortunate. By reaching out to Mephibosheth, David demonstrates God's kindness and blessings, even to those who may seem undeserving or disadvantaged. This verse serves as a reminder of the power of forgiveness, love, and grace in the midst of complex relationships and personal struggles. It shows that no one is beyond the reach of God's mercy and that kindness can bridge even the deepest divides.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, the theological interpretation revolves around the concept of kindness and grace, specifically the kindness of God. The king's inquiry about the descendants of Saul demonstrates a desire to extend this kindness to a member of Saul's house, despite the troubled history between the two families. This act of kindness can be seen as a reflection of God's own grace and mercy towards humanity, even when we may not deserve it. Moreover, the mention of Jonathan's son who is lame on his feet highlights the theme of God's compassion for the vulnerable and marginalized. In a broader theological context, this verse can be interpreted as a reminder of God's unending love and care for all, regardless of their background or circumstances.

2 Samuel 9:3 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the king said, Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God unto him? And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan hath yet a son, who is lame of his feet.

World English Bible

The king said, “Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him?” Ziba said to the king, “Jonathan has yet a son, who is lame of his feet.”

Douay-Rheims

And the king said: Is there any one left of the house of Saul, that I may shew the mercy of God unto Him? And Siba said to the king: There is a son of Jonathan left, who is lame of his feet.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the King sayd, Remayneth there yet none of the house of Saul, on whome I may shewe the mercie of God? Ziba then answered the King, Ionathan hath yet a sonne lame of his feete.