2 Samuel 4

4:1 all Israel became paralyzed with fear: Abner’s true power was evident in Ishbosheth’s reaction to his death (cp. Josh 2:9-11; 5:1). Ishbosheth’s timidity bred the same among his followers.

4:2-3 Beeroth was located in Benjamin near Gibeon. Probably because of Saul’s persecution of the non-Israelite residents in that region (see 21:1-9), the citizens of Beeroth had fled to Gittaim, the location of which is unknown.

4:4 This parenthetical statement shows that, with the death of Ishbosheth (4:5-7), Saul’s dynasty was unable to continue—the only other heir was a young child who was crippled (see also 9:1-13). • Mephibosheth is a nickname meaning “from the mouth of shame,” possibly referring to his physical condition. No crippled animal could ever be offered to God, and no disabled priest was allowed to stand before God with the people’s offerings (Lev 21:19). Likewise, Mephibosheth’s condition probably disqualified him from the crown. His name change from Merib-baal (see 1 Chr 9:40) also removed association with Baal (see study note on 2 Sam 2:8).

4:6 Recab and Baanah believed they would gain David’s favor by committing this treacherous act.

4:8 your enemy Saul: As far as we know, David never referred to Saul as an enemy. • the Lord has given . . . revenge: Wrongdoers often presume upon God’s favor to justify political ambition. However, David would not reward treachery.

4:9-11 Someone once told me: Cp. 1:1-16.

4:12 cut off their hands and feet: Displaying the dismembered bodies of Ishbosheth’s killers shamed them by denying them proper burial (cp. 1 Sam 31:8-13); it was also a public testimony of David’s innocence in Ishbosheth’s death.