2 Samuel 4:4 meaning

The story of Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, begins with a tragic turn of events in his childhood. Following the deaths of Saul and Jonathan, Mephibosheth, who was then only five years old, was dropped by his nurse while fleeing from perceived enemies, resulting in lifelong lameness. This accident set a tone of vulnerability and misfortune that marked his life. During this turbulent time, Ish-bosheth, Saul's other son, took leadership but struggled without the support of Abner. In the context of ongoing conflicts and instability following Saul's reign, this verse reveals Mephibosheth as an obscure and physically impaired figure who embodies the remnants of Saul's family.