Key Figures — 2 Samuel 4

4 figures

1. Ish-bosheth

   King of Israel and son of Saul.

   Ish-bosheth was the son of Saul and was made king over Israel by Abner. His reign was marked by weakness and instability, and he was ultimately assassinated by his own captains.

   Related passages

   • 2 Samuel Chapter 2 (Ish-bosheth made king by Abner)
   • 2 Samuel Chapter 3 (Abner's defection and Ish-bosheth's weakening position)

   • #Ishbosheth
   • #King
   • #Saul

2. Rechab and Baanah

   Assassins of Ish-bosheth.

   Rechab and Baanah were captains of raiding bands under Ish-bosheth. They betrayed and murdered Ish-bosheth, hoping to gain favor with David, but were executed for their treachery.

   Related passages

   • 2 Samuel Chapter 4 (Assassination of Ish-bosheth)
   • 2 Samuel Chapter 1 (David's response to the death of Saul)

   • #Rechab
   • #Baanah
   • #Assassins

3. David

   King of Judah and future king of all Israel.

   David's response to the murder of Ish-bosheth demonstrates his respect for the Lord's anointed and his commitment to justice, as he orders the execution of Rechab and Baanah.

   Related passages

   • 1 Samuel Chapter 24 (David spares Saul's life)
   • 2 Samuel Chapter 1 (David's lament for Saul and Jonathan)

   • #David
   • #King
   • #Justice

4. Mephibosheth

   Son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul.

   Mephibosheth is mentioned briefly as the son of Jonathan who was lame in both feet, highlighting the vulnerability of Saul's remaining lineage.

   Related passages

   • 2 Samuel Chapter 9 (David's kindness to Mephibosheth)
   • 2 Samuel Chapter 21 (Mephibosheth spared by David)

   • #Mephibosheth
   • #Jonathan
   • #Saul

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