2 Samuel 4:4
2 Samuel 4:4 in Multiple Translations
And Jonathan son of Saul had a son who was lame in his feet. He was five years old when the report about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel. His nurse picked him up and fled, but as she was hurrying to escape, he fell and became lame. His name was Mephibosheth.
And Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.
Now Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son that was lame of his feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel; and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.
Now Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son whose feet were damaged. He was five years old when news of the death of Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel, and the woman who took care of him took him up and went in flight: and while she was getting him away as quickly as she was able, he had a fall and his feet were damaged. His name was Mephibosheth.
Jonathan, son of Saul, had a son lame in both feet. He was five years old when the news about the deaths of Saul and Jonathan had come from Jezreel. His nurse had picked him up and run away, but as she rushed to get away, he fell and became lame. His name was Mephibosheth.
And Ionathan Sauls sonne had a sonne that was lame on his feete: he was fiue yere olde when the tydings came of Saul and Ionathan out of Israel: then his nourse tooke him, and fledde away. And as she made haste to flee, the childe fell, and beganne to halte, and his name was Mephibosheth.
And to Jonathan son of Saul [is] a son — lame; he was a son of five years at the coming in of the rumour of [the death of] Saul and Jonathan, out of Jezreel, and his nurse lifteth him up, and fleeth, and it cometh to pass in her hasting to flee, that he falleth, and becometh lame, and his name [is] Mephibosheth.
Now Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son who was lame in his feet. He was five years old when the news came about Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel; and his nurse picked him up and fled. As she hurried to flee, he fell and became lame. His name was Mephibosheth.
And Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son that was lame of his feet: he was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth.
And Jonathan the son of Saul bad a son that was lame of his feet: for he was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan from Jezrahel. And his nurse took him up and fled: and as she made haste to flee, he fell and became lame: and his name was Miphiboseth.
Saul’s son Jonathan had a son named Mephibosheth. When Mephibosheth was five years old, Saul and Jonathan died in the battle. When people brought that news from Jezreel, Mephibosheth’s nursemaid picked him up and ran away. She ran very fast, with the result that she dropped him, and his legs became crippled.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 4:4
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Samuel 4:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/לִ/יהֽוֹנָתָן֙
בֶּן
שָׁא֔וּל
בֵּ֖ן
נְכֵ֣ה
רַגְלָ֑יִם
בֶּן
חָמֵ֣שׁ
שָׁנִ֣ים
הָיָ֡ה
בְּ/בֹ֣א
שְׁמֻעַת֩
שָׁא֨וּל
וִ/יהֽוֹנָתָ֜ן
מִֽ/יִּזְרְעֶ֗אל
וַ/תִּשָּׂאֵ֤/הוּ
אֹֽמַנְתּ/וֹ֙
וַ/תָּנֹ֔ס
וַ/יְהִ֞י
בְּ/חָפְזָ֥/הּ
לָ/נ֛וּס
וַ/יִּפֹּ֥ל
וַ/יִּפָּסֵ֖חַ
וּ/שְׁמ֥/וֹ
מְפִיבֹֽשֶׁת
וְ/לִ/יהֽוֹנָתָן֙
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
Jonathan
Conj | Prep | N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
שָׁא֔וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
Shaul
N-proper
בֵּ֖ן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
נְכֵ֣ה
nâkeh
H5223
crippled
Adj
רַגְלָ֑יִם
regel
H7272
foot
N-fd
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
חָמֵ֣שׁ
châmêsh
H2568
five
Adj
שָׁנִ֣ים
shâneh
H8141
year
N-fp
הָיָ֡ה
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
בְּ/בֹ֣א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
שְׁמֻעַת֩
shᵉmûwʻâh
H8052
tidings
N-fs
שָׁא֨וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
Shaul
N-proper
וִ/יהֽוֹנָתָ֜ן
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
Jonathan
Conj | N-proper
מִֽ/יִּזְרְעֶ֗אל
Yizrᵉʻêʼl
H3157
Jezreel
Prep | N-proper
וַ/תִּשָּׂאֵ֤/הוּ
nâsâʼ
H5375
to lift
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs | Suff
אֹֽמַנְתּ/וֹ֙
ʼâman
H539
be faithful
V-Qal | Suff
וַ/תָּנֹ֔ס
nûwç
H5127
to flee
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
וַ/יְהִ֞י
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
בְּ/חָפְזָ֥/הּ
châphaz
H2648
to hurry
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
לָ/נ֛וּס
nûwç
H5127
to flee
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
וַ/יִּפֹּ֥ל
nâphal
H5307
to fall
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
וַ/יִּפָּסֵ֖חַ
pâçach
H6452
to pass
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
וּ/שְׁמ֥/וֹ
shêm
H8034
name
Conj | N-ms | Suff
מְפִיבֹֽשֶׁת
Mᵉphîybôsheth
H4648
Mephibosheth
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 4:4
וְ/לִ/יהֽוֹנָתָן֙
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
"Jonathan"
Conj | Prep | N-proper
Jehonathan was a son of King Saul and a friend of David, meaning 'Jehovah has given'. He was also known as Jonathan.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.13.3; son of: Shimeah (H8093); also called Jonathan at 2Sa.21.21; 1x27.32; Another name of yo.na.dav (יוֹנָדָב "Jonadab" H3122G) § Jonathan or Jehonathan = "Jehovah has given" 1) a son of king Saul and a friend of David 2) a son of the high priest Abiathar and the last descendant of Eli of whom we hear 3) a nephew of David who like David slew a giant of Gath 4) an uncle of David 5) one of David's mighty warriors 6) one of David's treasurers 7) a scribe in the time of Jeremiah 8) a Levite and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the trumpet at the dedication of the wall 9) a son or descendant of Gershom, the son of Moses, and a priest to the tribe of Dan 10) a son of Kareah and a brother of Johanan; a Judaite captain after the fall of Jerusalem 11) another Judaite father of Peleth 12) father of Ebed in the time of Ezra 13) son of Asahel in the time of Ezra 14) a priest of the family of Melicu in the time of Nehemiah 15) son of Joiada and his successor to the high priesthood in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: Jonathan. Compare H3129 (יוֹנָתָן). See also: 1 Samuel 14:6; 1 Samuel 23:18; Jeremiah 37:15.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
שָׁא֔וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
"Shaul"
N-proper
Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah
Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.
בֵּ֖ן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
נְכֵ֣ה
nâkeh
H5223
"crippled"
Adj
This word describes someone who is crippled or maimed, either physically or emotionally, like in Psalm 143 where David feels broken. It can also mean being dejected or feeling beaten down.
Definition: stricken, smitten
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: contrite, lame. See also: 2 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 9:3; Isaiah 66:2.
רַגְלָ֑יִם
regel
H7272
"foot"
N-fd
This word also means a foot, like when God says he will tread on the wicked in Malachi 4:3. It's used to describe human and animal feet, as well as the base of objects like tables or idols.
Definition: 1) foot 1a) foot, leg 1b) of God (anthropomorphic) 1c) of seraphim, cherubim, idols, animals, table 1d) according to the pace of (with prep) 1e) three times (feet, paces) Aramaic equivalent: re.gal (רְגַל "foot" H7271)
Usage: Occurs in 232 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] be able to endure, [idiom] according as, [idiom] after, [idiom] coming, [idiom] follow, (broken-)foot(-ed, -stool), [idiom] great toe, [idiom] haunt, [idiom] journey, leg, [phrase] piss, [phrase] possession, time. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Samuel 22:39; Psalms 8:7.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
חָמֵ֣שׁ
châmêsh
H2568
"five"
Adj
This Hebrew word simply means the number five. It is used throughout the Bible to describe quantities of five, such as five loaves of bread in Matthew 14:17. It can also mean a multiple of five.
Definition: 1) five 1a) five (cardinal number) 1b) a multiple of five (with another number) 1c) fifth (ordinal number)
Usage: Occurs in 272 OT verses. KJV: fif(-teen), fifth, five ([idiom] apiece). See also: Genesis 5:6; Numbers 31:45; Ezra 2:66.
שָׁנִ֣ים
shâneh
H8141
"year"
N-fp
This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.
Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)
Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.
הָיָ֡ה
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
בְּ/בֹ֣א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
שְׁמֻעַת֩
shᵉmûwʻâh
H8052
"tidings"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means news or a report, often referring to a message or announcement, like the tidings of Jesus' birth in the Gospel of Luke.
Definition: 1) report, news, rumour 1a) report, news, tidings 1b) mention
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: bruit, doctrine, fame, mentioned, news, report, rumor, tidings. See also: 1 Samuel 2:24; Isaiah 28:19; Psalms 112:7.
שָׁא֨וּל
Shâʼûwl
H7586
"Shaul"
N-proper
Shaul is a personal name meaning desired, given to several individuals in the Bible, including a Benjamite who became the first king of Israel and a Levite living during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is mentioned in 1 Chronicles and 1 Samuel.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.6.24; son of: Uzziah (H5818H); father of: Elkanah (H0511I); also called Joel at 1Ch.6.36; Also named: yo.el (יוֹאֵל "Joel" H3100U) § Saul or Shaul = "desired" 1) a Benjamite, son of Kish, and the 1st king of Israel 2) an early king of Edom and a successor of Samlah 3) a son of Simeon 4) a Levite, son of Uzziah
Usage: Occurs in 335 OT verses. KJV: Saul, Shaul. See also: Genesis 36:37; 1 Samuel 16:22; 1 Samuel 24:5.
וִ/יהֽוֹנָתָ֜ן
Yᵉhôwnâthân
H3083
"Jonathan"
Conj | N-proper
Jehonathan was a son of King Saul and a friend of David, meaning 'Jehovah has given'. He was also known as Jonathan.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.13.3; son of: Shimeah (H8093); also called Jonathan at 2Sa.21.21; 1x27.32; Another name of yo.na.dav (יוֹנָדָב "Jonadab" H3122G) § Jonathan or Jehonathan = "Jehovah has given" 1) a son of king Saul and a friend of David 2) a son of the high priest Abiathar and the last descendant of Eli of whom we hear 3) a nephew of David who like David slew a giant of Gath 4) an uncle of David 5) one of David's mighty warriors 6) one of David's treasurers 7) a scribe in the time of Jeremiah 8) a Levite and father of Zechariah, a priest who blew the trumpet at the dedication of the wall 9) a son or descendant of Gershom, the son of Moses, and a priest to the tribe of Dan 10) a son of Kareah and a brother of Johanan; a Judaite captain after the fall of Jerusalem 11) another Judaite father of Peleth 12) father of Ebed in the time of Ezra 13) son of Asahel in the time of Ezra 14) a priest of the family of Melicu in the time of Nehemiah 15) son of Joiada and his successor to the high priesthood in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: Jonathan. Compare H3129 (יוֹנָתָן). See also: 1 Samuel 14:6; 1 Samuel 23:18; Jeremiah 37:15.
מִֽ/יִּזְרְעֶ֗אל
Yizrᵉʻêʼl
H3157
"Jezreel"
Prep | N-proper
Jezreel means God sows, the name of a city in Issachar and a place in Palestine where God sows or nurtures growth.
Definition: Combined with e.meq (עֵ֫מֶק " Valley" H6010M) § Jezreel = "God sows" a city in Issachar on the northwest spur of Mount Gilboa
Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: Jezreel. See also: Joshua 15:56; 2 Kings 9:15; Hosea 2:24.
וַ/תִּשָּׂאֵ֤/הוּ
nâsâʼ
H5375
"to lift"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.
Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought
Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.
אֹֽמַנְתּ/וֹ֙
ʼâman
H539
"be faithful"
V-Qal | Suff
This Hebrew word means to be faithful or trustworthy, as seen in the KJV translations. It can also mean to support or confirm something, and is used in passages like Psalm 37:3 to describe trusting in God. The concept of faithfulness is central to the book of Proverbs.
Definition: 1) to support, confirm, be faithful 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to support, confirm, be faithful, uphold, nourish 1a1a) foster-father (subst.) 1a1b) foster-mother, nurse 1a1c) pillars, supporters of the door 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be established, be faithful, be carried, make firm 1b1a) to be carried by a nurse 1b1b) made firm, sure, lasting 1b1c) confirmed, established, sure 1b1d) verified, confirmed 1b1e) reliable, faithful, trusty 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to stand firm, to trust, to be certain, to believe in 1c1a) stand firm 1c1b) trust, believe Aramaic equivalent: a.man (אֲמַן "to trust" H0540)
Usage: Occurs in 102 OT verses. KJV: hence, assurance, believe, bring up, establish, [phrase] fail, be faithful (of long continuance, stedfast, sure, surely, trusty, verified), nurse, (-ing father), (put), trust, turn to the right. See also: Genesis 15:6; Job 24:22; Psalms 12:2.
וַ/תָּנֹ֔ס
nûwç
H5127
"to flee"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
To flee means to quickly leave a place, like escaping from danger, as seen in the Bible when David fled from King Saul. It can also mean to disappear or vanish. In the book of Psalms, it describes God delivering his people from harm.
Definition: 1) to flee, escape 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to flee 1a2) to escape 1a3) to take flight, m depart, disappear 1a4) to fly (to the attack) on horseback 1b) (Polel) to drive at 1c) (Hithpolel) to take flight 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to put to flight 1d2) to drive hastily 1d3) to cause to disappear, hide Aramaic equivalent: nud (נוּד "to flee" H5111)
Usage: Occurs in 143 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abate, away, be displayed, (make to) flee (away, -ing), put to flight, [idiom] hide, lift up a standard. See also: Genesis 14:10; 2 Samuel 17:2; Psalms 60:6.
וַ/יְהִ֞י
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
בְּ/חָפְזָ֥/הּ
châphaz
H2648
"to hurry"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
This Hebrew word means to hurry or flee in fear, like when someone is startled or alarmed. It appears in the Bible when describing people rushing away in panic. The KJV translates it as 'haste' or 'tremble'.
Definition: 1) to hurry, flee, hasten, fear, be terrified 1a) (Qal) to be in a hurry, be alarmed 1b) (Niphal) to be in a hurry
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: (make) haste (away), tremble. See also: Deuteronomy 20:3; Job 40:23; Psalms 31:23.
לָ/נ֛וּס
nûwç
H5127
"to flee"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
To flee means to quickly leave a place, like escaping from danger, as seen in the Bible when David fled from King Saul. It can also mean to disappear or vanish. In the book of Psalms, it describes God delivering his people from harm.
Definition: 1) to flee, escape 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to flee 1a2) to escape 1a3) to take flight, m depart, disappear 1a4) to fly (to the attack) on horseback 1b) (Polel) to drive at 1c) (Hithpolel) to take flight 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to put to flight 1d2) to drive hastily 1d3) to cause to disappear, hide Aramaic equivalent: nud (נוּד "to flee" H5111)
Usage: Occurs in 143 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abate, away, be displayed, (make to) flee (away, -ing), put to flight, [idiom] hide, lift up a standard. See also: Genesis 14:10; 2 Samuel 17:2; Psalms 60:6.
וַ/יִּפֹּ֥ל
nâphal
H5307
"to fall"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.
Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.
וַ/יִּפָּסֵ֖חַ
pâçach
H6452
"to pass"
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To limp or hop is the meaning of this verb, which can also mean to skip over or spare something. It is used in Exodus 12:27 to describe the Israelites' actions during the Passover.
Definition: 1) to pass over, spring over 1a) (Qal) to pass over 1b) (Piel) to skip, pass over
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: halt, become lame, leap, pass over. See also: Exodus 12:13; 2 Samuel 5:6; Isaiah 31:5.
וּ/שְׁמ֥/וֹ
shêm
H8034
"name"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.
Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)
Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.
מְפִיבֹֽשֶׁת
Mᵉphîybôsheth
H4648
"Mephibosheth"
N-proper
Mephibosheth was a man in the Bible, grandson of King Saul and son of Rizpah. His name means exterminating the idol, and he is mentioned in 2 Samuel 21:8.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Sa.21.8; son of: Saul (H7586G) and Rizpah (H7532); brother of: Armoni (H0764); half-brother of: Jonathan (H3083H), Abinadab (H0041H), Malchi-shua (H4444), Merab (H4764), Michal (H4324) and Ish-bosheth (H0378) § Mephibosheth = "exterminating the idol" 1) grandson of Saul and son of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, Saul's concubine; he and his brother Armoni were among the 7 victims surrendered by David to the Gibeonites to avert a famine 2) son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul 2a) also 'Merib-baal'
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: Mephibosheth. See also: 2 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 16:1; 2 Samuel 21:8.
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 4:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 4:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 4:4
Context — The Murder of Ish-bosheth
2Saul’s son had two men who were leaders of raiding parties. One was named Baanah and the other Rechab; they were sons of Rimmon the Beerothite of the tribe of Benjamin—Beeroth is considered part of Benjamin,
3because the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have lived there as foreigners to this day.
4And Jonathan son of Saul had a son who was lame in his feet. He was five years old when the report about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel. His nurse picked him up and fled, but as she was hurrying to escape, he fell and became lame. His name was Mephibosheth.
5Now Rechab and Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, set out and arrived at the house of Ish-bosheth in the heat of the day, while the king was taking his midday nap. 6They entered the interior of the house as if to get some wheat, and they stabbed him in the stomach. Then Rechab and his brother Baanah slipped away.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Samuel 9:3 | So the king asked, “Is there anyone left of Saul’s family to whom I can show the kindness of God?” Ziba answered, “There is still Jonathan’s son, who is lame in both feet.” |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 9:6 | And when Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David, he fell facedown in reverence. Then David said, “Mephibosheth!” “I am your servant,” he replied. |
| 3 | 1 Chronicles 9:40 | The son of Jonathan: Merib-baal, who was the father of Micah. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 29:1 | Now the Philistines brought all their forces together at Aphek, while Israel camped by the spring in Jezreel. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 29:11 | So David and his men got up early in the morning to return to the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 31:1–10 | Now the Philistines fought against Israel, and the men of Israel fled before them, and many fell slain on Mount Gilboa. The Philistines followed hard after Saul and his sons, and they killed Saul’s sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua. When the battle intensified against Saul, the archers overtook him and wounded him critically. Then Saul said to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and run it through me, or these uncircumcised men will come and run me through and torture me!” But his armor-bearer was terrified and refused to do it. So Saul took his own sword and fell on it. When his armor-bearer saw that Saul was dead, he too fell on his own sword and died with him. So Saul, his three sons, his armor-bearer, and all his men died together that same day. When the Israelites along the valley and those on the other side of the Jordan saw that the army of Israel had fled and that Saul and his sons had died, they abandoned their cities and ran away. So the Philistines came and occupied their cities. The next day, when the Philistines came to strip the dead, they found Saul and his three sons fallen on Mount Gilboa. They cut off Saul’s head, stripped off his armor, and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines to proclaim the news in the temples of their idols and among their people. They put his armor in the temple of the Ashtoreths and hung his body on the wall of Beth-shan. |
| 7 | 1 Chronicles 8:34 | The son of Jonathan: Merib-baal, and Merib-baal was the father of Micah. |
2 Samuel 4:4 Summary
This verse tells us about Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, who became lame in his feet when he was just five years old. His nurse was trying to protect him from the news of his father's death, but in her hurry, she dropped him and he was injured. This story helps us understand that even in difficult and unexpected circumstances, God is still with us and cares for us, just as He promises in Deuteronomy 31:8 and Matthew 28:20. It also reminds us that our actions can have lasting consequences, and we should strive to trust and follow God's plan for our lives, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Mephibosheth lame in his feet?
Mephibosheth became lame in his feet when his nurse dropped him while fleeing from the news of Saul and Jonathan's death in Jezreel, as described in 2 Samuel 4:4, and this injury had a lasting impact on his life, much like the lasting impact of sin described in Romans 6:23.
What was the significance of Mephibosheth's age when the report about Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel?
Mephibosheth was only five years old when the report came, indicating the devastating and sudden nature of the events that unfolded, much like the suddenness of God's judgment in 1 Samuel 2:31.
How does Mephibosheth's story relate to the broader narrative of 2 Samuel?
Mephibosheth's story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the consequences of sin, themes that are woven throughout 2 Samuel, including in the stories of David and Absalom, as seen in 2 Samuel 18:33.
What can we learn from the fact that Mephibosheth's nurse tried to protect him but ultimately failed?
This event shows that even with the best intentions, human efforts can be flawed and insufficient, highlighting the need for God's protection and care, as described in Psalm 121:3, where it is written that God will not let our foot slip.
Reflection Questions
- How do you think Mephibosheth's life was affected by his lameness, and what can we learn from his experiences about trusting God in difficult circumstances?
- What does Mephibosheth's story reveal about the nature of God's sovereignty and the consequences of human actions, and how can we apply these insights to our own lives?
- In what ways can we, like Mephibosheth's nurse, try to protect and care for others, and how can we trust God to work even when our efforts are imperfect?
- How does Mephibosheth's story relate to the theme of God's care for the vulnerable and marginalized, as seen in other parts of Scripture, such as Psalm 68:5 and Isaiah 1:17?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 4:4
And Jonathan, Saul's son,.... His eldest son, who died at the same time with him: had a son [that was] lame of [his] feet; of both feet, which were broken or bruised by a fall, as later related: and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 4:4
And Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son that was lame of his feet.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
This history is inserted as that which encouraged these men to this wicked murder, because Saul’ s family was now reduced to a low ebb; and if Ish-bosheth was dispatched, there would be none left but a lame child, who was altogether unfit to manage the kingdom, especially in so troublesome a time as this was; and therefore the crown must necessarily come to David by their act and deed, for which they promised themselves no small recompence. Jezreel; the place of that last and fatal fight, . Mephibosheth; called also Merib-baal, . See Poole "".
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
2 Samuel 4:4 And Jonathan, Saul’ s son, had a son [that was] lame of [his] feet. He was five years old when the tidings came of Saul and Jonathan out of Jezreel, and his nurse took him up, and fled: and it came to pass, as she made haste to flee, that he fell, and became lame. And his name [was] Mephibosheth.Ver. 4. That was lame of his feet. He was five years old, &c.] And therefore neither fit to reign, nor likely to revenge Ishbosheth’ s death. This encouraged the traitors; and is therefore here brought in. And his name was Mephibosheth.] Called also Meribbaal. So Jerubbaal is called Jerubbesheth, and Ishbaal, Ishbosheth, in detestation of that shame, Baalpeor, whose very name was odious to right worshippers.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
(4) A son that was lame.—The reason for the introduction here of this account of Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, is to show that, he being physically in capacitated for the throne, the house of Saul became practically extinct with the death of Ish-bosheth. There were other descendants, but either illegitimate or of the female line (2 Samuel 21:8-9), and hence there was none other of his house to claim the throne.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
Verse 4. He fell, and became lame] Dislocated his ankle, knee, or thigh; which was never after reduced; and thus he became lame. Lovely Jonathan! unfortunate in thy life, and in thy progeny.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 4:4
4. And Jonathan, &c.] Before proceeding to narrate the murder of Ish-bosheth, the historian inserts a remark which implies that with his death the cause of Saul’s house would necessarily become hopeless, as its only other legitimate representative was a lame child of twelve years old. out of Jezreel] Where the Israelite camp was pitched before the fatal battle of Gilboa. See note on 1 Samuel 29:1. Mephibosheth] Called in 1 Chronicles 8:34; 1 Chronicles 9:40, Merib-baal. Bosheth (=“shame”) has been substituted for the detested name of Baal, as in the name Ish-bosheth for Esh-baal. See note on ch. 2 Samuel 2:8. Merib-baal means “one who contends with Baal:” Mephibosheth, “exterminator of shame.” For his subsequent history see chaps. 9, 16, 2 Samuel 19:24 ff.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Samuel 4:4
This mention of Mephibosheth seems to be inserted here partly to show that with the death of Ish-bosheth the cause of the house of Saul became hopeless, and partly to prepare the way for the
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Samuel 4:4
4. Mephibosheth — Called also Merib-baal. 1 Chronicles 8:34. We shall see in a future period how David cared for him.
Sermons on 2 Samuel 4:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
(Depressed Disciples) Permanent Physical Infirmity by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul. The preacher emphasizes that Mephibosheth was chosen by God and given fa |
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Standing on the Wrong Side of the Battle by Carter Conlon | This sermon emphasizes the importance of being on the right side of the spiritual battle, highlighting the consequences of straying from God's path and the need to return to seekin |