2 Samuel 19:27

KJV

And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king [is] as an angel of God: do therefore [what is] good in thine eyes.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he hath slandered {H7270} thy servant {H5650} unto my lord {H113} the king {H4428}; but my lord {H113} the king {H4428} is as an angel {H4397} of God {H430}: do {H6213} therefore what is good {H2896} in thine eyes {H5869}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But he slandered me your servant to my lord the king. However, my lord the king is like an angel of God; so do whatever seems right to you.

Berean Standard Bible

and he has slandered your servant to my lord the king. Yet my lord the king is like the angel of God, so do what is good in your eyes.

American Standard Version

And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Samuel 19:27, Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul, presents a fervent defense before King David upon the king's return to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion. He vehemently refutes the malicious accusations of his servant Ziba, who had slandered him during David's flight. Mephibosheth humbly asserts Ziba's treachery and expresses profound trust in David's exceptional wisdom, likening the king's discernment to that of an "angel of God," culminating in a complete and humble submission to David's ultimate judgment. This verse powerfully encapsulates his plea for justice, his unwavering loyalty, and his willingness to accept whatever decision the king renders despite the severe personal consequences he had endured.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King David's return to Jerusalem following the defeat of Absalom's rebellion. It immediately follows Mephibosheth's dramatic appearance before David (2 Samuel 19:24-26), where he is described as unkempt and mourning, clearly indicating his distress and refuting Ziba's earlier claims of disloyalty. David's direct question to Mephibosheth in [2 Samuel 19:25](/2_samuel/19-25 "2 Samuel 19:25 - David Questions Mephibosheth"), "Why wentest not thou with me, Mephibosheth?", directly prompts this passionate defense. Mephibosheth's plea here is his opportunity to clear his name and re-establish his true loyalty in the king's eyes. The narrative then moves to David's somewhat ambiguous ruling in [2 Samuel 19:29-30](/2_samuel/19-29-30 "2 Samuel 19:29-30 - David's Ruling on Mephibosheth and Ziba"), which divides the property between Mephibosheth and Ziba, highlighting the lasting impact of Ziba's deceit and the complexity of David's judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period immediately following a civil war, such as Absalom's rebellion, was a volatile time in ancient Israel, demanding the re-establishment of royal authority and the swift identification and punishment of traitors. Loyalty to the reigning monarch was paramount, and any perceived disloyalty, especially from a descendant of the previous king (Saul), could lead to severe repercussions, including confiscation of property or even death. The social structure often involved wealthy landowners entrusting their estates to trusted servants or stewards, like Ziba, which unfortunately created opportunities for abuse of power, manipulation, and slander. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, kings were frequently regarded as possessing extraordinary wisdom, sometimes even divine insight, due to their role as God's chosen representatives. Addressing a king with titles like "angel of God" was a profound expression of respect, flattery, and acknowledgment of their perceived discernment and authority to administer justice. David, as God's anointed king over Israel, was expected to embody these qualities of divine justice and wisdom.
* **Key Themes:** Mephibosheth's defense in this verse powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout the books of Samuel. The pervasive theme of **slander and false accusation** is central, as Ziba's deceitful report directly led to Mephibosheth's disinheritance and public disgrace. This highlights the destructive power of misinformation and malicious gossip, a theme also evident in the accusations leveled against David by Saul's court in [1 Samuel 24:9](/1_samuel/24-9 "1 Samuel 24:9 - David's Plea to Saul"). Another prominent theme is **loyalty versus treachery**. Mephibosheth's unkempt appearance, his earnest plea, and his willingness to accept David's judgment underscore his unwavering devotion to the king, standing in stark contrast to Ziba's opportunistic betrayal. This narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the covenant loyalty David had previously extended to Mephibosheth for Jonathan's sake in [2 Samuel 9:7](/2_samuel/9-7 "2 Samuel 9:7 - David's Kindness to Mephibosheth"). Finally, the verse emphasizes the **king's divine wisdom and discernment**. Mephibosheth's declaration that David is "as an angel of God" speaks to the expectation of righteous judgment from a divinely appointed leader, a quality that David was often praised for, as seen in the wise woman of Tekoa's words in [2 Samuel 14:17](/2_samuel/14-17 "2 Samuel 14:17 - The Wise Woman's Praise of David").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **slandered (Hebrew, _rāgal'_):** This verb (H7270) means "to walk along," but specifically in this context, it takes on the meaning "to reconnoiter," "to be a tale-bearer," or "to slander." It implies a deliberate and malicious act of spreading false or damaging reports about someone, often with the intent to deceive, undermine, or gain personal advantage. Here, it precisely describes Ziba's treacherous misrepresentation of Mephibosheth's loyalty and actions to King David, which had severe and immediate consequences for Mephibosheth.
* **angel of God (Hebrew, _malʼâk ʼĕlôhîym'_):** This phrase combines _mălʼâk_ (H4397), meaning "a messenger" or "an angel," and _ʼĕlôhîym_ (H430), referring to "God" or "gods." When used together, as here, it signifies not that David is a divine being, but that he possesses extraordinary, almost supernatural, wisdom, insight, and discernment. It suggests an ability to see through deception, understand the truth of a matter, and judge righteously, as if inspired or guided by divine understanding. It is a profound compliment, acknowledging David's exceptional capacity for just governance and his role as God's anointed.
* **good in thine eyes (Hebrew, _ṭôwb bāʻayin'_):** This idiomatic expression combines _ṭôwb_ (H2896), meaning "good" in the widest sense (including pleasant, agreeable, right), and _ʻayin_ (H5869), meaning "eye" (literally or figuratively, often representing perception, judgment, or opinion). The phrase signifies complete submission to the king's will and judgment. Mephibosheth is essentially saying, "Whatever you, my lord, deem right, just, or pleasing, that I will accept." It demonstrates profound humility, trust in David's ultimate decision-making, and a relinquishing of his own right to demand a specific outcome, placing his fate entirely in the king's hands.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king;":** Mephibosheth begins his defense by directly and unequivocally accusing Ziba of lying and defaming his character. By referring to himself as "thy servant," he emphasizes his loyal subservience and devotion to David, thereby contrasting it sharply with the disloyalty Ziba falsely attributed to him. This clause is the core of his defense, asserting the malicious and deceitful nature of Ziba's actions, which had led to his disinheritance.
* **"but my lord the king [is] as an angel of God:":** This is a powerful and strategic declaration of Mephibosheth's profound faith in David's wisdom and his ability to discern truth from falsehood. It is a high and sincere compliment, appealing to David's reputation for righteous judgment and divine insight. By likening David to an "angel of God," Mephibosheth expresses confidence that David will see through Ziba's deception and recognize his true loyalty, implying that David possesses a divine-like capacity for understanding and administering justice.
* **"do therefore [what is] good in thine eyes.":** This concluding phrase signifies Mephibosheth's ultimate humility, submission, and trust in David's authority. Despite having been wronged and slandered, he does not demand restitution or a specific outcome for himself. Instead, he places his fate entirely in David's hands, trusting that whatever decision David makes, it will be the right one, reflecting a deep respect for the king's sovereign authority and a willingness to accept his final judgment, whatever it may be.

#### Literary Devices
Mephibosheth's fervent plea in 2 Samuel 19:27 employs several potent literary devices to convey his message and appeal to King David. The most striking is **Simile**, evident in the phrase "my lord the king [is] as an angel of God." This comparison, using "as," does not literally suggest David is a celestial being, but rather serves to magnify David's perceived wisdom, discernment, and capacity for righteous judgment, appealing to his ego and his divinely appointed role. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between Ziba's malicious slander and Mephibosheth's humble, truthful, and submissive defense. This highlights the moral opposition between treachery and loyalty, deceit and integrity. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a powerful **Supplication** or **Plea**, a fervent and respectful appeal to a higher authority for justice and understanding. Mephibosheth's carefully chosen words, particularly his final declaration of submission, create a sense of pathos and underscore his vulnerable position, relying solely on the king's mercy and discernment to restore his honor and standing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly speaks to fundamental biblical themes of truth, justice, and the nature of righteous authority. Mephibosheth's predicament highlights the vulnerability of the innocent to slander and the critical need for discernment in leadership. His profound trust in David's "angel of God" wisdom points to the expectation that earthly rulers, especially those appointed by God, should strive to reflect divine attributes of justice, insight, and integrity. Ultimately, Mephibosheth's humble submission and trust remind us that while human justice may often be imperfect, delayed, or even miscarried, there is a higher, divine court that sees all, knows all truth, and will ultimately bring all hidden things to light, administering perfect and unassailable justice.

* [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips are Abomination to the Lord")
* [Psalm 7:8](/psalms/7-8 "Psalm 7:8 - The Lord Judges the Peoples")
* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mephibosheth's unwavering loyalty, humble submission, and earnest defense in the face of grave injustice offer a powerful and enduring model for believers navigating similar challenges today. When we are falsely accused, slandered, or misunderstood, our natural inclination might be to react with anger, defensiveness, or a desperate need for self-vindication. However, Mephibosheth's example teaches us the profound value of patiently and truthfully presenting our case to those in authority, while ultimately entrusting the outcome to a higher, sovereign power. His profound trust in David's wisdom, even after David's initial rash judgment, reflects a deeper spiritual truth: that God is the ultimate arbiter of justice, and His discernment is perfect and unfailing. This narrative encourages us to cultivate a spirit of humility, to steadfastly pursue truth, and to trust in God's sovereign plan and perfect timing, even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly unfair or when earthly justice falls short. It also serves as a poignant reminder for those in positions of influence—whether in the church, family, or workplace—to exercise profound discernment, to listen carefully and impartially to all sides of a story, and to diligently seek divine wisdom before rendering judgment, lest they inadvertently perpetuate injustice through hasty or biased decisions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you typically react when you feel slandered or falsely accused, and what can you learn from Mephibosheth's approach?**
* **What does Mephibosheth's humility and submission teach us about trusting in God's ultimate justice, even when earthly justice seems imperfect or delayed?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as followers of Christ, demonstrate unwavering loyalty to Him and His truth, even when facing adversity, misunderstanding, or betrayal?**

### FAQ

**What was the nature of Ziba's slander against Mephibosheth?**

Answer: Ziba maliciously slandered Mephibosheth by falsely accusing him of disloyalty and treason against King David during Absalom's rebellion. Ziba claimed that Mephibosheth had deliberately stayed behind in Jerusalem, hoping that the chaos of the rebellion would lead to the restoration of Saul's kingdom to him (see [2 Samuel 16:3](/2_samuel/16-3 "2 Samuel 16:3 - Ziba's Accusation")). This grave accusation implied a desire to usurp David's throne and directly led David to rashly grant all of Mephibosheth's property to Ziba (see [2 Samuel 16:4](/2_samuel/16-4 "2 Samuel 16:4 - David's Grant to Ziba")), highlighting the devastating impact of Ziba's deceit.

**Why did Mephibosheth refer to King David as "an angel of God"?**

Answer: Mephibosheth used the phrase "as an angel of God" to express his profound respect for David's exceptional wisdom, discernment, and ability to judge righteously. It was a high and sincere compliment, suggesting that David possessed a divine-like insight to see through deception and understand the truth of a matter, beyond ordinary human capacity. This phrase was also famously used by the wise woman of Tekoa in [2 Samuel 14:17](/2_samuel/14-17 "2 Samuel 14:17 - The Wise Woman's Praise of David") to describe David's exceptional wisdom in resolving disputes. Mephibosheth's use of this phrase was both a genuine acknowledgment of David's perceived sagacity and a strategic appeal to the king's sense of justice, hoping David would apply his divine-like wisdom to discern Mephibosheth's true loyalty.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mephibosheth's experience in 2 Samuel 19:27, marked by unjust slander, profound betrayal, and humble submission, finds deep and resonant Christ-centered fulfillment. Like Mephibosheth, Jesus, the true Son of David and the ultimate "servant" of God, was relentlessly slandered and betrayed by those He came to serve. He endured false accusations of treason against Caesar and blasphemy against God, facing numerous false testimonies (e.g., [Matthew 26:59-61](/matthew/26-59-61 "Matthew 26:59-61 - False Witnesses Against Jesus")). Yet, in the face of such profound injustice, Jesus did not retaliate or defend Himself with human might, but humbly submitted to the will of His Father, trusting in divine justice (e.g., [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). He is the true King who possesses perfect discernment, far beyond that of any "angel of God," for He is God incarnate, the very Word through whom all things were made (e.g., [John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Became Flesh")). His judgment is always "good in [His Father's] eyes" because He perfectly executes the Father's will, seeking only His glory (e.g., [John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus Seeks the Father's Will")). Ultimately, Jesus, the Lamb of God, was slandered, crucified, and sacrificed, not for His own sin, but to take away the sin of the world, thereby establishing perfect justice and offering true restoration and a place at His table to all who, like Mephibosheth, humbly submit to His sovereign reign (e.g., [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 14:20

To fetch about this form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord [is] wise, according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all [things] that [are] in the earth.

2 Samuel 14:17

Then thine handmaid said, The word of my lord the king shall now be comfortable: for as an angel of God, so [is] my lord the king to discern good and bad: therefore the LORD thy God will be with thee.

2 Samuel 16:3

And the king said, And where [is] thy master's son? And Ziba said unto the king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.

1 Samuel 29:9

And Achish answered and said to David, I know that thou [art] good in my sight, as an angel of God: notwithstanding the princes of the Philistines have said, He shall not go up with us to the battle.

Jeremiah 9:4

Take ye heed every one of his neighbour, and trust ye not in any brother: for every brother will utterly supplant, and every neighbour will walk with slanders.

Psalms 101:5

Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.

Psalms 15:3

[He that] backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.