or מְפִבֹשֶׁת; probably from פָּאָה and בֹּשֶׁת; dispeller of shame (i.e. of Baal); Mephibosheth, the name of two Israelites; Mephibosheth.
Transliteration:Mᵉphîybôsheth
Pronunciation:mef-ee-bo'-sheth
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun `{{H4648}}` (Mᵉphîybôsheth) is derived from two elements: `{{H6286}}` (pa'ah), meaning "to blow" or "to disperse," and `{{H1322}}` (bosheth), meaning "shame" or "confusion." Thus, the name is typically understood to mean "dispeller of shame" or "from the mouth of shame." The Strong's definition specifically notes the theological implication that the "shame" refers to Baal, suggesting a deliberate alteration or reinterpretation of an original name that might have contained "Baal" (e.g., Merib-Baal). This linguistic shift reflects a polemic against the Canaanite deity, rendering him as "shame." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its function as a personal name, but its etymology carries significant theological weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H4648}}` appears primarily in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles, referring to two distinct individuals:
1. **Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul:** This is the most prominent figure bearing the name. His story unfolds primarily in 2 Samuel. He was crippled in both feet at the age of five after news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths reached his nurse, causing her to flee in haste ([[2 Samuel 4:4]]). David, remembering his covenant with Jonathan ([[1 Samuel 20:14-17]]), sought out any surviving members of Saul's house to show them kindness ([[2 Samuel 9:1]]). He found Mephibosheth living in Lo-debar, a place signifying "no pasture" or "no word," indicative of his desolate state. David restored all of Saul's land to him and commanded Ziba, Saul's servant, to cultivate it for Mephibosheth. Crucially, David declared that Mephibosheth would "always eat at my table" ([[2 Samuel 9:7]]). During Absalom's rebellion, Ziba falsely accused Mephibosheth of disloyalty, leading David to grant Ziba all of Mephibosheth's land ([[2 Samuel 16:1-4]]). However, upon David's return to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth appeared unkempt and explained his inability to join David due to his lameness and Ziba's deception ([[2 Samuel 19:24-30]]). David, seemingly unsure of the truth, divided the land between them. In 1 Chronicles, he is also referred to by his original name, Merib-Baal ([[1 Chronicles 8:34]], [[1 Chronicles 9:40]]), confirming the theological renaming.
2. **Mephibosheth, son of Saul by Rizpah, daughter of Aiah:** This individual is mentioned only once in [[2 Samuel 21:8]]. He was one of the seven descendants of Saul whom David handed over to the Gibeonites as atonement for Saul's violation of a covenant with them. These seven were executed to appease the Gibeonites and lift a famine from the land. This Mephibosheth is clearly distinct from Jonathan's son, as the latter was spared due to David's oath.
The narratives highlight themes of covenant faithfulness, mercy, and the precariousness of life for those associated with a fallen dynasty.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H1322}}` (bosheth):** "Shame," directly forming part of the name. This word often denotes disgrace, confusion, or the futility associated with idolatry.
* **`{{H6286}}` (pa'ah):** "To blow, disperse," suggested as the root for "dispeller."
* **`{{H1167}}` (Ba'al):** The Canaanite storm god. The substitution of "bosheth" for "Baal" in names like Mephibosheth (from Merib-Baal) and Ish-bosheth (from Ish-Baal) reflects a deliberate theological rejection and denigration of this pagan deity by the biblical authors.
* **`{{H2617}}` (hesed):** "Covenant loyalty," "steadfast love," "mercy." David's actions toward Mephibosheth are a prime example of *hesed*, fulfilling his oath to Jonathan.
* **`{{H3091}}` (Yehonathan):** Jonathan, Mephibosheth's father, whose covenant with David forms the basis for Mephibosheth's redemption.
* **`{{H7586}}` (Sha'ul):** Saul, Mephibosheth's grandfather, representing the former, rejected dynasty.
* **Lameness:** Mephibosheth's physical infirmity ([[2 Samuel 4:4]]) symbolizes his vulnerability and diminished status, making David's act of kindness even more profound.
### Theological Significance
The narrative of Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan, is rich in theological significance. It stands as a powerful illustration of **divine mercy and covenant faithfulness**. David's unwavering commitment to his oath with Jonathan, extending *hesed* to a disabled descendant of a rival house, mirrors God's own steadfast love and faithfulness to His covenants, even when the recipient is undeserving or in a state of weakness. Mephibosheth, a "dead dog" in his own estimation ([[2 Samuel 9:8]]), is elevated from obscurity and poverty to a permanent place at the king's table, a profound image of **redemption and restoration**.
The name "dispeller of shame" itself is highly symbolic. Mephibosheth, burdened by his physical condition, the downfall of his family, and the potential for a name linked to a pagan deity, is literally brought out of shame by David's grace. This can be understood as an earthly type of the spiritual redemption offered by God, who lifts humanity from the "shame" of sin and alienation, restoring dignity and fellowship.
Furthermore, the deliberate substitution of "bosheth" for "Baal" in the name serves as a strong **polemic against idolatry**. The biblical authors, by recording this change, underscore the theological conviction that Baal is not a true god but a source of shame and futility for those who worship him. This linguistic transformation reinforces the exclusive sovereignty of Yahweh. Mephibosheth's constant place at David's table ([[2 Samuel 9:13]]) also prefigures the **intimate fellowship and provision** God offers to His people, akin to the imagery of the Lord's Supper or the marriage supper of the Lamb, where the redeemed are brought into the King's presence and partake of His bounty.
### Summary
`{{H4648}}` (Mᵉphîybôsheth), meaning "dispeller of shame," is a proper noun referring primarily to Jonathan's son and Saul's grandson. His story in 2 Samuel serves as a profound biblical illustration of covenant loyalty (`{{H2617}}`) and divine mercy. Despite his physical lameness and the fallen state of his family, David, honoring his oath to Jonathan, extended unconditional kindness to Mephibosheth, restoring his inheritance and granting him a permanent place at the royal table. This act of grace symbolizes God's redemptive work, lifting the lowly from shame and into fellowship. The name's etymology, with "shame" replacing "Baal," also functions as a theological statement, denouncing idolatry and affirming the futility of false gods. The narrative of Mephibosheth beautifully encapsulates themes of redemption, restoration, and the enduring faithfulness of God's promises.
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