Topical Encyclopedia Merib-baal, also known as Mephibosheth, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative of King David. He is the son of Jonathan and the grandson of King Saul, Israel's first king. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.Name and Identity The name Merib-baal means "contender with Baal" or "opponent of Baal," reflecting a theophoric element common in Israelite names, where "Baal" could refer to a lord or master. In some biblical texts, he is referred to as Mephibosheth, which means "from the mouth of shame." This dual naming is not uncommon in the Hebrew Scriptures, where individuals often have more than one name or title. Historical Context Merib-baal's life is set against the backdrop of the transition from the rule of Saul to the establishment of David's monarchy. After the death of Saul and Jonathan in battle against the Philistines, the house of Saul fell into decline. Merib-baal, being a direct descendant of Saul, was a potential heir to the throne, which placed him in a precarious position during the power struggles that ensued. Physical Condition and Early Life Merib-baal's early life was marked by tragedy. At the age of five, upon hearing the news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths, his nurse fled with him in haste, and he fell, becoming lame in both feet (2 Samuel 4:4). This physical disability would have significant implications for his life, particularly in a culture that often viewed physical imperfections as a disadvantage. David's Kindness to Merib-baal Despite the potential threat Merib-baal posed as a descendant of Saul, King David showed him extraordinary kindness. David had made a covenant with Jonathan to show kindness to his family (1 Samuel 20:14-17). In fulfillment of this promise, David sought out any remaining members of Saul's house to show them favor. Upon learning of Merib-baal's existence, David restored to him all the land that had belonged to Saul and invited him to eat at the king's table regularly (2 Samuel 9:7-13). This act of grace not only provided for Merib-baal's physical needs but also honored the memory of Jonathan. Role in the Succession Narrative Merib-baal's account intersects with the broader narrative of David's reign and the subsequent succession struggles. During Absalom's rebellion, Ziba, Merib-baal's servant, deceived David by claiming that Merib-baal was seeking to reclaim the throne of Saul (2 Samuel 16:1-4). Upon David's return to Jerusalem, Merib-baal defended his loyalty, explaining that Ziba had betrayed him (2 Samuel 19:24-30). David, in a gesture of reconciliation, divided the land between Ziba and Merib-baal, though Merib-baal expressed contentment with David's safe return. Legacy Merib-baal's life is a testament to the themes of covenant loyalty, grace, and the complexities of human relationships in the biblical narrative. His account highlights the enduring bond between David and Jonathan and serves as an example of the transformative power of kindness and mercy. Despite his physical limitations and the political intrigue surrounding him, Merib-baal's inclusion at David's table symbolizes the restoration and dignity offered through covenant faithfulness. Easton's Bible Dictionary Contender with Baal, (1 Chronicles 8:34; 9:40), elsewhere called Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 4:4), the son of Jonathan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MERIB-BAALmer-ib-ba'-al (meribhba`al; also meri-bha`al, "Baal contends"): The spelling varies in a single verse; 1 Chronicles 9:40 contains the name twice: first, in the first form above; second, in the second form. The name is given also in 1 Chronicles 8:34. It is the other name of MEPHIBOSHETH (2) (which see). Strong's Hebrew 4807. Merib Baal -- perhaps "Baal is advocate," a son of JonathanMerib Baal. 4806, 4807. Merib Baal. 4808 . perhaps "Baal is advocate," a son of Jonathan. Transliteration: Merib Baal Phonetic ... /hebrew/4807.htm - 6k Library The King. Acts vi. 8 The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Thesaurus Meribbaal (2 Occurrences)... Jonathan. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MERIB-BAAL. mer ... Hebrew. Henry Wallace. Multi-Version Concordance Meribbaal (2 Occurrences). 1 ... /m/meribbaal.htm - 8k Merib-baal (2 Occurrences) Mer'ib-ba'al (2 Occurrences) Merib (2 Occurrences) Begat (112 Occurrences) Mephibosheth (13 Occurrences) Micah (54 Occurrences) Baal (94 Occurrences) Jonathan (109 Occurrences) Ziba (13 Occurrences) Resources What was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Baal? | GotQuestions.org Why was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Merib-baal (2 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 8:34 1 Chronicles 9:40 Subtopics Related Terms |
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