2 Samuel 2:9

and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, and Benjamin--over all Israel.

Study Bible

and made him king over Gilead
Gilead is a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. It was a significant area for the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This region's mention highlights the division within Israel, as it was part of the territories that initially supported Saul's house. The anointing of Ish-bosheth as king over Gilead signifies the continuation of Saul's legacy and the resistance to David's rule. Gilead's strategic location made it a stronghold for those loyal to Saul's lineage.

Asher
Asher was one of the northern tribes of Israel, located along the Mediterranean coast. This tribe's inclusion under Ish-bosheth's rule indicates the extent of Saul's influence, as Asher was geographically distant from the central power in Judah. The tribe of Asher is often associated with prosperity and abundance, as seen in Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:20. However, their support for Ish-bosheth suggests a division in loyalty among the tribes of Israel.

Jezreel
Jezreel is a fertile valley in northern Israel, known for its strategic military importance. It was the site of many significant battles, including those involving Gideon and the Midianites. The mention of Jezreel under Ish-bosheth's rule underscores the military and agricultural significance of the region. This area was also associated with the house of Ahab and Jezebel, adding a layer of historical complexity to its mention. The control of Jezreel was crucial for maintaining power in the northern kingdom.

Ephraim
Ephraim was one of the most prominent tribes of Israel, often representing the northern kingdom as a whole. The tribe's support for Ish-bosheth highlights the deep-seated division between the northern and southern tribes. Ephraim's historical rivalry with Judah is evident in various biblical narratives, including the split of the kingdom after Solomon's reign. The tribe's inclusion under Ish-bosheth's rule reflects the ongoing tension and competition for leadership within Israel.

and Benjamin
Benjamin was the tribe of Saul, and its support for Ish-bosheth is expected, given their familial ties. The tribe's location, bordering Judah, made it a critical area of contention between the supporters of Saul's house and David. Benjamin's loyalty to Ish-bosheth underscores the personal and tribal loyalties that influenced the political landscape of Israel. The tribe's eventual shift in allegiance to David is a pivotal moment in the unification of the kingdom.

over all Israel
The phrase "over all Israel" is significant as it highlights the claim of Ish-bosheth to the entire nation, despite the reality of a divided kingdom. This claim reflects the ongoing struggle for legitimacy and authority between the house of Saul and David. The division of Israel during this period foreshadows the later split into the northern and southern kingdoms. The phrase also emphasizes the theme of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His plan for Israel, ultimately leading to the establishment of David's dynasty and the foreshadowing of the Messianic kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ish-bosheth
The son of Saul, who was made king over Israel by Abner, Saul's army commander. His reign represents a division in the kingdom following Saul's death.

2. Abner
The commander of Saul's army who played a crucial role in making Ish-bosheth king. His actions highlight the political maneuvering and power struggles of the time.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. It was one of the territories over which Ish-bosheth was made king.

4. Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin
These are tribes and regions within Israel. Their mention signifies the extent of Ish-bosheth's rule, though it was not universally accepted.

5. David
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, David is the anointed king of Judah and represents God's chosen leader, contrasting with Ish-bosheth's politically motivated kingship.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty vs. Human Politics
Ish-bosheth's kingship was established through human political maneuvering, not divine appointment. This reminds us to seek God's will rather than relying solely on human strategies.

Unity in God's Kingdom
The division between David and Ish-bosheth's followers serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of division within God's people. Unity should be sought under God's chosen leadership.

The Temporary Nature of Human Authority
Ish-bosheth's reign was short-lived, illustrating that human authority is temporary and ultimately subject to God's eternal plan.

Trust in God's Timing
David waited for God's timing to become king over all Israel, teaching us patience and trust in God's perfect timing for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the political appointment of Ish-bosheth as king contrast with David's anointing by God, and what does this teach us about seeking God's will in leadership?

2. In what ways can the division between Ish-bosheth and David's followers serve as a warning for maintaining unity within the church today?

3. Reflect on a time when you relied on human strategies rather than seeking God's guidance. What were the outcomes, and how can you apply this lesson in future decisions?

4. How does the temporary nature of Ish-bosheth's reign encourage us to focus on eternal values rather than temporary power or success?

5. What can we learn from David's patience and trust in God's timing, and how can we apply this to situations where we are waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
This chapter describes David's anointing by Samuel, establishing him as God's chosen king, which contrasts with Ish-bosheth's political appointment.

2 Samuel 5
This chapter details David's eventual recognition as king over all Israel, fulfilling God's promise and highlighting the temporary nature of Ish-bosheth's reign.

1 Kings 12
The division of the kingdom under Rehoboam and Jeroboam echoes the earlier division between David and Ish-bosheth, illustrating recurring themes of division and God's sovereignty.