Ziba is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 2 Samuel. He is primarily known for his association with King David and the house of Saul. Ziba was a servant of Saul's household and played a significant role in the narrative concerning Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul.

Background and Role

Ziba first appears in 2 Samuel 9, where King David seeks to show kindness to the house of Saul for the sake of Jonathan, his dear 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 about Mephibosheth, who is crippled in both feet and living in Lo-debar. David subsequently restores to Mephibosheth all the land that belonged to Saul and appoints Ziba and his sons and servants to work the land for Mephibosheth. Ziba is tasked with ensuring that the produce of the land supports Mephibosheth, who is to eat at David's table regularly. The Berean Standard Bible records this arrangement: "You and your sons and servants are to work the land for him and bring in the harvest, so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat. But Mephibosheth, your master’s grandson, will always eat at my table" (2 Samuel 9:10).

Ziba's Deception

Ziba's character is further explored in 2 Samuel 16 during Absalom's rebellion against David. As David flees Jerusalem, Ziba meets him with provisions, claiming that Mephibosheth has stayed in Jerusalem, hoping to reclaim his grandfather Saul's kingdom. Ziba tells David, "Behold, he remains in Jerusalem, for he said, ‘Today the house of Israel will restore to me the kingdom of my grandfather’" (2 Samuel 16:3). Believing Ziba's report, David grants Ziba all of Mephibosheth's possessions.

The Truth Revealed

The truth about Ziba's deception is revealed later in 2 Samuel 19 when David returns to Jerusalem. Mephibosheth meets David and explains that Ziba deceived him and did not bring him along when David fled. Mephibosheth had intended to join David but was unable due to his disability. He states, "My lord the king, my servant deceived me. For I said, ‘I will saddle my donkey so that I may ride on it and go with the king,’ because your servant is lame" (2 Samuel 19:26). David, faced with conflicting accounts, decides to divide the land between Ziba and Mephibosheth, though Mephibosheth expresses contentment with David's safe return over material possessions.

Legacy and Interpretation

Ziba's actions have been interpreted in various ways, often highlighting themes of loyalty, deception, and the complexities of human character. His account serves as a reminder of the potential for self-interest and manipulation, even among those in positions of service. Ziba's interactions with David and Mephibosheth illustrate the challenges of leadership and the importance of discernment in judgment. His narrative also underscores the enduring kindness of David towards the house of Saul, despite the political and personal challenges he faced.

David and Jonathan's Son
... 2. And there was of the house of Saul a servant whose name was Ziba. And when they
had called him unto David, the king said unto him, Art thou Ziba? ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/david and jonathans son.htm

Ziba's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ziba's (1 Occurrence). ... And all that dwelt in the house
of Ziba were servants unto Mephibosheth. (See RSV NIV). ...
/z/ziba's.htm - 6k

Mephibosheth (13 Occurrences)
... When David was a fugitive, according to the story of Ziba (2 Samuel 16:1-4)
Mephibosheth proved unfaithful to him, and was consequently deprived of half of ...
/m/mephibosheth.htm - 17k

Zibeon (7 Occurrences)

/z/zibeon.htm - 9k

Ziba (13 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ZIBA. ...Ziba is to be assisted in this by his
sons and servants; he had 15 sons and 20 servants (9:10). ...
/z/ziba.htm - 14k

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