Mephibosheth
Mephibosheth in the Bible — son of Jonathan (2SA 4:4). Mephibosheth belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “out of my mouth proceeds reproach”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Benjamin
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 2 names
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Mephibosheth was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin known primarily as the son of Jonathan. His identity is grounded in his lineage, which connects him to significant figures in Israel's history. No additional personal notes are recorded about him beyond these details.
Names & Titles
Mephibosheth's name means 'from the mouth of Shame,' a derogatory reference linked to Baal, indicating a negative connotation in the original Hebrew. He was also known as Merib-baal, which means 'Baal contends,' reflecting a name associated with conflict or contention involving Baal. Neither name was given by God but rather reflects the cultural and religious context of his time.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Mephibosheth as the son of Jonathan. Additionally, it is inferred that Mica was his father, suggesting a close familial connection. Beyond these, no other family relationships are recorded in the biblical text.
Significance
Mephibosheth's significance in the biblical narrative is primarily tied to his heritage as Jonathan's son, situating him within the line of Saul and the tribe of Benjamin. His presence in Scripture highlights the continuation of Jonathan's lineage amid Israel's royal history. The meanings of his names also reflect the spiritual and cultural challenges faced by his family during a time of competing religious influences.
Names & Labels (2)
- Hebrew
- מְפִיבֹשֶׁת
- Transliteration
- məfiyboshet
- Meaning
- from the mouth of Shame [a derogatory name for Baal]”
- Greek
- Μεμφιβοσθε
- Reference
- 2SA 4:4
- Strong's
- H4648
- Hebrew
- מְרִיב בַּעַל
- Transliteration
- məriyv baal
- Meaning
- Baal contends
- Greek
- Μεριβααλ
- Reference
- 1CH 8:34
- Strong's
- H4807 & H4810
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mephibosheth in the Bible?
Mephibosheth was a male member of the tribe of Benjamin known primarily as the son of Jonathan. His identity is grounded in his lineage, which connects him to significant figures in Israel's history. No additional personal notes are recorded about him beyond these details.
What does the name Mephibosheth mean?
The name Mephibosheth means “out of my mouth proceeds reproach” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.