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Book of 2 Samuel - Chapter 9 - Verse 1

9:1
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?

Meaning

In this verse, David is demonstrating his compassion and loyalty by seeking out any remaining descendants of Saul, the former king of Israel and David's predecessor. David's close friend Jonathan was Saul's son, and despite the strained relationship between David and Saul, Jonathan had formed a strong bond with David. David's desire to show kindness to any surviving member of Saul's house is a reflection of his deep friendship with Jonathan and his commitment to honor that relationship even after Jonathan's death. This act of kindness also highlights David's character as a man who values loyalty and keeps his promises, showing that he is willing to put aside past grievances for the sake of honoring those he cares about. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of loyalty, friendship, and keeping one's word even in the face of difficult circumstances.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of 2 Samuel, we see King David displaying a remarkable sense of gratitude and loyalty towards his dear friend Jonathan, the son of King Saul. David's question about the surviving members of Saul's house reflects his desire to fulfill a promise he made to Jonathan to show kindness to his descendants. This act of kindness towards Saul's descendants not only demonstrates David's faithfulness to his friend but also highlights the importance of honoring commitments and relationships in the biblical context. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the themes of loyalty, compassion, and the enduring value of friendship in the Christian faith. Additionally, the word 'kindness' used in this verse denotes a deep sense of compassion and goodwill, reflecting the overarching theme of divine grace and mercy found throughout the Bible. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring relationships and fulfilling promises as part of living out one's faith in practice.

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?
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