Topical Encyclopedia Ziba is a biblical figure prominently featured in the narrative of King David's reign, particularly in the context of David's relationship with the house of Saul. Ziba was originally a servant in the household of Saul, the first king of Israel, and later became a servant to Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel.Background and Role Ziba first appears in 2 Samuel 9, when King David seeks to show kindness to the house of Saul for the sake of Jonathan, his beloved friend. David inquires if there is anyone left of Saul's house to whom he can show God's kindness. Ziba, a servant of Saul's household, is summoned to David's presence. He informs the king of Mephibosheth, who is crippled in both feet and living in Lo-debar. David restores to Mephibosheth all the land that belonged to Saul and appoints Ziba, along with his sons and servants, to work the land for Mephibosheth. Ziba's role is thus established as a steward and caretaker of Mephibosheth's estate. Ziba's Loyalty During Absalom's Rebellion Ziba's faithfulness to David is notably tested during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. In 2 Samuel 16, as David flees Jerusalem to escape Absalom's uprising, Ziba meets him with a substantial provision of donkeys, bread, raisins, summer fruit, and wine. When David inquires about Mephibosheth, Ziba claims that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem, hoping to regain his grandfather Saul's kingdom. In response to Ziba's loyalty and the perceived betrayal by Mephibosheth, David grants Ziba all of Mephibosheth's possessions: "Then the king said to Ziba, 'All that belongs to Mephibosheth is now yours.' 'I humbly bow,' said Ziba. 'May I find favor in your eyes, my lord the king'" (2 Samuel 16:4). Controversy and Resolution The account of Ziba's actions raises questions about his motives and the truthfulness of his report regarding Mephibosheth. Later, in 2 Samuel 19, when David returns to Jerusalem after Absalom's defeat, Mephibosheth approaches David to explain his side of the account. He claims that Ziba deceived him and left him behind, as he was unable to saddle a donkey due to his disability. David, faced with conflicting accounts, decides to divide the land between Ziba and Mephibosheth: "The king replied, 'Why say more? I hereby declare that you and Ziba are to divide the land'" (2 Samuel 19:29). Interpretation and Legacy Ziba's actions have been interpreted in various ways. Some view him as a loyal servant to David, providing for the king in a time of need and demonstrating allegiance during a period of political instability. Others see him as opportunistic, possibly manipulating the situation to gain favor and wealth. Regardless of the interpretation, Ziba's account highlights the complexities of loyalty, service, and the challenges of discerning truth in the midst of political intrigue. Ziba's legacy is intertwined with the broader narrative of David's reign, illustrating the intricate relationships and power dynamics within the royal court. His interactions with David and Mephibosheth offer insights into the themes of loyalty, justice, and the fulfillment of covenantal promises in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 16:1-4And when David was a little past the top of the hill, behold, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and on them two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 19:17,26-29 Library Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources Who was Mephibosheth? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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