Ish-bosheth
Ish-bosheth in the Bible — (illegitimate?) son of Saul (2SA 2:8). Ish-bosheth belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. Referenced in 6 scripture passages.
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Benjamin
- Scripture References
- 6 references
- Known Names
- 3 names
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Ish-bosheth was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin and is noted as a (illegitimate?) son of Saul. His identity is closely tied to his royal lineage, though specific details about his life beyond his parentage are sparse. He played a role in the early monarchy period of Israel's history.
Names & Titles
Ish-bosheth means 'man of shame,' reflecting a name given without divine origin. He was also known by the name Eshbaal, meaning 'man of Baal,' and held the title 'King of Israel,' which denotes his brief reign over the nation. These names and titles highlight the complex cultural and religious context of his time.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Ish-bosheth as a son of Saul. He was ultimately killed by Baanah and Rimmon, indicating adversarial relationships that led to his death. No other family relationships are recorded beyond these.
Significance
Ish-bosheth's significance lies in his role as a successor to Saul during a turbulent period in Israel's monarchy. His contested kingship and eventual assassination underscore the challenges of leadership and divine appointment in Israel's history. His story sets the stage for the rise of David as king, emphasizing God's providence in establishing His chosen ruler.
Names & Labels (3)
- Hebrew
- אִישׁ־בֹשֶׁת
- Transliteration
- ish voshet
- Meaning
- man of shame
- Greek
- Ιεβοσθε
- Reference
- 2SA 2:8
- Strong's
- H376, H1322
- Hebrew
- מֶלֶךְ בְּיִשְׂרָאֵל
- Transliteration
- melek beyisərael
- Meaning
- king of Israel
- Greek
- βασιλεὺς ἐν Ισραηλ
- Reference
- 2SA 2:10
- Strong's
- H4428, H3478
- Hebrew
- אֶשְׁבַּעַל
- Transliteration
- eshəbaal
- Meaning
- man of Baal
- Greek
- Ασαβαλ
- Reference
- 1CH 8:33
- Strong's
- H792
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ish-bosheth in the Bible?
Ish-bosheth was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin and is noted as a (illegitimate?) son of Saul. His identity is closely tied to his royal lineage, though specific details about his life beyond his parentage are sparse. He played a role in the early monarchy period of Israel's history.