Old Testament
2 Samuel 9:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"You, your sons, and your servants will farm the land for him and bring in the harvest so his household will have food. But Mephibosheth himself will always eat at my table." Ziba had 15 sons and 20 servants.
Compare translations
Thou therefore, and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in the fruits, that thy master’s son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master’s son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
What 2 Samuel 9:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, King David shows kindness to Mephibosheth, the son of his late friend Jonathan. David ensures that Mephibosheth will always have a place at his table, symbolizing acceptance and honor. He instructs Ziba, a servant, to manage the land and provide food for Mephibosheth. This act of generosity highlights the importance of loyalty and friendship. David's commitment to Mephibosheth reflects a deep sense of responsibility and care. It also illustrates how we can extend grace to others, regardless of their circumstances. Mephibosheth, who was disabled, receives not just sustenance but a place of dignity and belonging. This story reminds us that everyone deserves love and support, especially those who may feel marginalized or forgotten. David's actions encourage us to look beyond societal norms and embrace those in need with compassion and kindness. In doing so, we create a community where everyone feels valued and included, just as Mephibosheth did at David's table.
How to apply 2 Samuel 9:10 to your life
Consider how you can show kindness to someone who may feel overlooked or marginalized. Small acts of generosity can make a significant difference in someone's life. Create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and included, just like Mephibosheth at David's table. Your actions can inspire others to do the same. Remember, everyone deserves a place at the table of life, regardless of their circumstances or challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Samuel Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Kindness to Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Samuel 9:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Samuel 9:10
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Samuel 9:10 mean?
2 Samuel 9:10 illustrates King David's kindness to Mephibosheth, ensuring he has a place at the king's table while Ziba manages the land for him. This act symbolizes acceptance and loyalty, showing that everyone deserves dignity and support.
Who is Ziba in 2 Samuel 9:10?
Ziba is a servant of King David who is tasked with managing the land for Mephibosheth. He has fifteen sons and twenty servants, indicating he has the resources to fulfill David's command.
What themes are present in 2 Samuel 9:10?
Key themes in 2 Samuel 9:10 include kindness, loyalty, acceptance, and community. The verse emphasizes the importance of generosity and extending grace to those who may feel marginalized.
How can we apply the message of 2 Samuel 9:10 today?
We can apply the message of 2 Samuel 9:10 by showing kindness to those who feel overlooked or marginalized. Small acts of generosity can create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.