2 Samuel 9:1

KJV

¶ And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559}, Is there yet {H3426} any that is left {H3498} of the house {H1004} of Saul {H7586}, that I may shew {H6213} him kindness {H2617} for Jonathan's {H3083} sake?

Complete Jewish Bible

David inquired, "Is there anyone still alive from the family of Sha'ul, to whom, for Y'honatan's sake, I can show kindness?"

Berean Standard Bible

Then David asked, “Is there anyone left from the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for the sake of Jonathan?”

American Standard Version

And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 9:1 marks a profound turning point in King David's reign, revealing his character not through military conquest or political maneuvering, but through an extraordinary act of grace. Having consolidated his kingdom and established peace, David proactively seeks out any surviving member of King Saul's household, not to eliminate potential rivals as was customary in the ancient Near East, but to extend loyal love and covenantal kindness (Hebrew: _chesed_) to them for the sake of his deep friendship and solemn oath with Jonathan, Saul's son. This verse sets the stage for one of the most poignant demonstrations of unmerited favor in the Old Testament, showcasing David's faithfulness to his word and his heart after God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the account of David's military victories and the secure establishment of his kingdom in Jerusalem. Chapters 7 and 8 detail God's covenant promise to David and his subsequent triumphs over surrounding nations, culminating in a period of peace and stability. With his throne firmly established and his enemies subdued, the narrative shifts from external conflict to internal matters of the kingdom and, significantly, to David's personal character. The question posed in [2 Samuel 9:1](/2_samuel/9-1 "2 Samuel 9:1 - David's Inquiry About Saul's House") is a direct consequence of the covenant David made with Jonathan in [1 Samuel 20:14-17](/1_samuel/20-14 "1 Samuel 20:14-17 - Jonathan's Covenant with David"), where Jonathan explicitly requested David to show kindness to his descendants. This chapter, therefore, serves as a powerful testament to David's integrity and faithfulness to his oaths, even years after Jonathan's death and when there was no political advantage to be gained. It contrasts sharply with the typical ruthless consolidation of power seen in ancient monarchies.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, it was a common and expected practice for a new dynasty, upon securing power, to systematically eliminate all surviving members of the previous ruling house. This was a brutal but effective strategy to prevent future rebellions, challenges to the throne, or claims to legitimacy. Examples of such purges are abundant in ancient history. Saul's house, though largely diminished by war and internal strife, still represented a potential threat or at least a symbolic challenge to David's complete authority. Furthermore, the concept of a covenant (Hebrew: _berit_) was central to ancient Israelite society, representing a solemn, binding agreement, often sealed with an oath and carrying significant obligations. David's remembrance of his covenant with Jonathan and his proactive search for Saul's descendants to show them _chesed_ (loyal love/kindness) stands in stark contrast to the prevailing political norms and highlights his unique character, shaped by his relationship with God.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme emerging from [2 Samuel 9:1](/2_samuel/9-1 "2 Samuel 9:1 - David's Covenant Loyalty") is **Covenant Loyalty and Faithfulness**. David's inquiry is not a casual thought but a deliberate act rooted in the solemn oath he swore to Jonathan, demonstrating the sanctity of promises and the enduring nature of true friendship, even across political divides and the passage of time. This act embodies the principle of God's own [steadfast faithfulness](/psalms/89-28 "Psalm 89:28 - God's Covenant Faithfulness"). Closely related is the theme of **Grace and Kindness (_Chesed_)**. The Hebrew word translated "kindness" is _chesed_, which signifies more than mere politeness; it denotes loyal love, steadfast affection, and covenantal mercy, often extended to those who are undeserving or unable to repay it. David's desire to show _chesed_ to Saul's house, a former adversary, is a powerful demonstration of unmerited favor, foreshadowing divine grace that is also unearned. Finally, the theme of **Remembrance** is crucial. David actively remembers his bond with Jonathan and the promises made, leading to concrete, compassionate action, demonstrating that true remembrance involves practical expression, as seen in God's remembrance of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob throughout the [Pentateuch](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Book of Genesis").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kindness (חֶסֶד, _chesed_):** This is arguably the most significant word in the verse. _Chesed_ is a rich Hebrew term that encapsulates loyal love, steadfast affection, mercy, and covenant devotion. It is not merely a feeling but an active, demonstrated commitment within a relationship, often extended to those who are vulnerable, dependent, or even undeserving. In the context of a covenant, _chesed_ implies a deep, enduring loyalty that goes beyond legal obligation, reflecting a profound moral and relational bond. David's desire to show _chesed_ to Saul's house for Jonathan's sake signifies his intention to honor the spirit and letter of their covenant, extending loyal love to Jonathan's surviving kin, even though they were from a rival, defeated dynasty. This act of _chesed_ is a powerful human reflection of God's own character, as He consistently shows _chesed_ to His people despite their unfaithfulness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said,"**: This opening clause indicates a deliberate and intentional pronouncement by the King. It is not a casual thought but a formal inquiry, signifying a shift in focus from external conquests to internal affairs and a matter of personal integrity and covenantal obligation. David, now secure on his throne, initiates this search, demonstrating his proactive commitment to his past promises.
* **"Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul,"**: This rhetorical question expresses David's earnest desire to find a remnant of the former royal family. In the ancient Near East, the expectation would be that David would seek to eliminate any survivors. However, David's question is posed with a different intent—not for destruction, but for discovery, setting up a radical reversal of typical political behavior. The phrase "house of Saul" refers to his lineage, descendants, and extended family, highlighting the dynastic implications of David's inquiry.
* **"that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?"**: This final clause reveals the profound motivation behind David's search. The "kindness" (חֶסֶד, _chesed_) David intends to show is not a superficial gesture but a deep, loyal love rooted in covenant. The phrase "for Jonathan's sake" underscores the enduring power of David's friendship and the solemn oath he made with Jonathan, as recorded in [1 Samuel 20:14-17](/1_samuel/20-14 "1 Samuel 20:14-17 - Jonathan's Covenant with David"). This motivation elevates the act from mere political expediency to a profound demonstration of personal integrity, covenant faithfulness, and compassionate grace, distinguishing David's reign.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. A **Rhetorical Question** ("Is there yet any that is left...?") is used not to gain information, but to express David's firm intention and initiate action. It signals a deliberate and proactive search. There is profound **Irony** in David's question; contrary to the expected practice of eliminating rival dynasties, David seeks out Saul's descendants to show them favor. This reversal of expectation highlights David's unique character as a king "after God's own heart." The use of the term "_chesed_" (kindness) is a powerful example of **Covenant Language**, evoking the deep, loyal love and faithfulness that characterized the bond between David and Jonathan, and ultimately, between God and His people. This act also serves as **Foreshadowing**, pointing to a greater act of unmerited grace that God would extend to humanity through His own "house."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Samuel 9:1 is a profound theological statement, illustrating God's character through David's actions. David's proactive search for Saul's descendants, motivated by _chesed_ for Jonathan's sake, mirrors God's own initiative in extending grace and covenant faithfulness to humanity. Just as David sought out the "lame" and "forgotten" (as Mephibosheth is later revealed to be), God actively seeks out those who are spiritually broken and alienated from Him. This passage underscores the enduring nature of covenants, both human and divine, emphasizing that true faithfulness transcends circumstances and personal gain. It teaches that genuine loyalty is not merely passive adherence but active, compassionate pursuit of the well-being of others, especially those who might otherwise be overlooked or considered adversaries.

* [1 Samuel 20:14-17](/1_samuel/20-14 "1 Samuel 20:14-17 - Jonathan's Covenant with David")
* [Proverbs 20:6](/proverbs/20-6 "Proverbs 20:6 - Many claim to have unfailing love")
* [Psalm 23:6](/psalms/23-6 "Psalm 23:6 - Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's inquiry in 2 Samuel 9:1 serves as a powerful model for believers today, challenging us to embody God's character in our own lives. It calls us to remember and honor our commitments, not just when it's convenient or beneficial, but with unwavering integrity, even years after the initial promise was made. More profoundly, it compels us to extend unmerited kindness and loyal love (_chesed_) to others, especially to those who might be considered "outsiders," "enemies," or those from whom we expect nothing in return. Just as David sought out a remnant of a former adversary's house, we are called to actively seek opportunities to show grace, forgiveness, and compassion, reflecting the boundless _chesed_ God has shown us. This act of grace reminds us that true love transcends self-interest and political expediency, prioritizing covenantal faithfulness and compassionate action.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What promises or commitments have I made that I need to revisit and honor with renewed faithfulness?**
* **In what areas of my life am I called to extend unmerited kindness (_chesed_) to someone who might not expect it or even "deserve" it?**
* **How does David's proactive search for Saul's house challenge my own tendency to wait for others to initiate reconciliation or connection?**
* **How can I embody loyal love that transcends personal gain or social expectations in my relationships?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so unusual for David to seek out Saul's house for kindness?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East, it was standard practice for a new king or dynasty to eliminate all surviving members of the previous ruling house. This brutal custom was intended to prevent any potential challenges to the throne or future rebellions. By seeking out Saul's descendants, David was acting against the prevailing political norms and expectations, demonstrating a radical act of grace and covenant faithfulness rather than political expediency. His motivation was rooted in his personal oath to Jonathan, as recorded in [1 Samuel 20:14-17](/1_samuel/20-14 "1 Samuel 20:14-17 - Jonathan's Covenant with David"), rather than a desire to secure his own power through violence.

**What is the significance of the word "kindness" (chesed) in this verse?**

Answer: The Hebrew word _chesed_ (חֶסֶד) is a rich theological term meaning "loyal love," "steadfast affection," "mercy," or "covenant devotion." It describes an active, unwavering commitment within a relationship, often extended to those who are vulnerable or dependent. David's desire to show _chesed_ goes beyond mere politeness; it signifies his intention to uphold the deep, enduring bond of his covenant with Jonathan, extending that loyal love to Jonathan's surviving family member, Mephibosheth, who is introduced in the subsequent verses ([2 Samuel 9:3](/2_samuel/9-3 "2 Samuel 9:3 - David Asks About Saul's House") and [2 Samuel 4:4](/2_samuel/4-4 "2 Samuel 4:4 - Mephibosheth's Background")). This act of _chesed_ reflects God's own character, as He consistently shows _chesed_ to His people despite their unfaithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's extraordinary act of _chesed_ in 2 Samuel 9:1 serves as a profound Old Testament type pointing directly to the ultimate grace of God in Jesus Christ. Just as David, the king, sought out a "lame" and "forgotten" descendant from a rival, condemned house (Mephibosheth, as revealed in [2 Samuel 9:3](/2_samuel/9-3 "2 Samuel 9:3 - David Finds Mephibosheth")), so too does God, the King of Kings, actively seek out humanity, who are spiritually lame, alienated by sin, and inherently part of a "condemned" lineage ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All have sinned")). We, like Mephibosheth, have no inherent claim on God's favor, yet through the "sake" of a greater Son—Jesus Christ—we are not merely shown kindness but are brought into the King's presence. Christ, the true Son of David, fulfills the covenant of grace by taking our place on the cross, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Through faith in Him, we are not only forgiven but are adopted into God's family ([Ephesians 1:5](/ephesians/1-5 "Ephesians 1:5 - Adoption Through Christ")) and granted a permanent place at the King's table, sharing in His inheritance ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")). David's _chesed_ to Mephibosheth, bringing him from Lo-Debar ("no pasture" or "no word") to eat at the king's table continually ([2 Samuel 9:7](/2_samuel/9-7 "2 Samuel 9:7 - Mephibosheth at the King's Table")), beautifully illustrates the spiritual journey of every believer: brought from spiritual destitution into the abundance and fellowship of God's kingdom, all for the sake of Christ, our faithful covenant partner ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Superior Covenant")).

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

1 Samuel 20:42

And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.

Matthew 25:40

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me.

Mark 9:41

¶ For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.

1 Peter 3:8

¶ Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous:

2 Samuel 1:26

I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.

1 Kings 2:7

But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.

Proverbs 27:10

Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: [for] better [is] a neighbour [that is] near than a brother far off.