Meaning of the Name Mephibosheth

The etymology of Mephibosheth is uncertain. Its second element is often connected with "bosheth," the Hebrew term associated with shame, yet some scholars think this may reflect a later alteration of an older theophoric element. As a result, although various difficult explanations are proposed, the meaning is best described as debated.

Origin

The name Mephibosheth is of Hebrew; form and second element are debated origin.

Who is Mephibosheth in the Bible?

Mephibosheth is the son of Jonathan, a member of Saul's house, who is left disabled in childhood. David brings him to his own table in loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan; the name also appears elsewhere in Saul's family, but Jonathan's son is the best-known bearer.

The story of Mephibosheth in the Bible

Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan and a grandson of King Saul. He was five years old when news came that Saul and Jonathan had fallen in battle; as his nurse fled with him in her arms he fell, and both his feet were crippled. Years later David, remembering his covenant with Jonathan, asked whether anyone of Saul's house remained to whom he could show kindness. Ziba, a servant of Saul's household, spoke of Mephibosheth living in Lo-debar. David brought him to the palace, reassured the frightened young man, restored to him the lands of his grandfather Saul, and gave him a permanent place at the royal table. So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem like one of the king's sons. His name surfaces again during Absalom's revolt, when Ziba slandered him and his property came into dispute, though he professed his loyalty when David returned. Another man of Saul's line bore the same name, but this Mephibosheth, a living witness to David's kept promise, is the one remembered.

Is Mephibosheth mentioned in the Quran?

The name Mephibosheth does not appear in the Quran; he is known from 2 Samuel in the Old Testament as Jonathan's son, whom David welcomed to his own table.

Verses where Mephibosheth appears

• 2 Samuel 4:4 — Now Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son who was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the news came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel; and his nurse took him up, and fled: and as she made haste to flee, he fell…
• 2 Samuel 9:6 — Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David, and fell on his face, and showed respect. David said, “Mephibosheth.” He answered, “Behold, your servant!”
• 2 Samuel 9:13 — So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem; for he ate continually at the king’s table. He was lame in both his feet.