2 Samuel 9:10
Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))
فتَحرُثُ لَه الأَرْضَ، أَنتَ وبَنوكَ وخُدَّامُكَ، وتَستَغِلُّها، فيَكونُ لِبَيتِ سَيِّدِكَ خُبزٌ يأكُلُه، ومَفيبَعْلُ ٱبنُ سَيِّدِكَ يَأكُلُ دائِمًا على مائِدَتي». وكانَ لِصيبا خَمسَةَ عَشَرَ ٱبنًا وعِشْرونَ خادِمًا.
What Does This Mean?
King David tells Ziba to take care of Mephibosheth, the son of his old friend, by farming the land and bringing in the harvest. Mephibosheth will eat at the king's table, and Ziba has a lot of help with his 15 sons and 20 servants. The key message is about kindness and taking care of those in need.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a friend whose dad used to be best friends with your dad. Your dad asks you to look after your friend by giving him food and letting him eat with you. It's like sharing your snacks with your friend who really needs them.
Historical Background
2 Samuel was written by multiple authors, possibly including Samuel, Nathan, and Gad, around 930-700 BCE. The audience was the Israelites, and the cultural setting reflects a time when kings ruled over Israel and the concept of hospitality and care for others was highly valued.
Living It Out Today
In a modern scenario, think of a neighbor who has fallen on hard times. By helping them out with groceries or inviting them over for meals, you're showing kindness and care, much like how David treated Mephibosheth.
Topics
kindnesshospitalityfriendshipobligationgenerosityloyalty
Related Verses
1 Kings 12:1-20Job 29:11-17Luke 14:12-141 Timothy 5:1-16Matthew 25:34-40
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does King David take care of Mephibosheth?
King David takes care of Mephibosheth because of the loyalty and friendship of Mephibosheth's father, Jonathan, towards David. It’s a way for David to show kindness and honor the memory of his friend.
What does it mean to eat at the king's table?
Eating at the king's table means that Mephibosheth would be treated like a family member, provided for, and included in the king's household, symbolizing a high level of honor and care.
Why does Ziba have a lot of help?
Ziba has a lot of help with his 15 sons and 20 servants because he is responsible for managing a large amount of work to take care of Mephibosheth and the land, ensuring everything is done efficiently.
How does this verse teach us about loyalty and kindness?
This verse shows how David’s kindness and loyalty to Jonathan are extended to Mephibosheth, teaching us that loyalty and kindness can transcend generations and situations.