Definition: Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he answered, Behold thy servant!

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from 2 Samuel 9:6. It’s a really striking passage about forgiveness and redemption. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Before the War: The story begins with a terrible event – Saul, King of Israel, had been tricked by the prophet Samuel into marrying David, the man who killed his own son, Jonathan. This was a massive betrayal and a huge disaster for everyone involved. Mephibosheth’s Arrival: Mephibosheth, a Syrian relative of Saul, arrived in David's kingdom. He was treated with fear and disdain by everyone – he was called “the son of Jonathan,” a name associated with the death of his brother. What Happened Next: Respectful Falling: When David saw Mephibosheth, he immediately knelt down and bowed his head in reverence (showing respect and humility). David’s Response: David then addressed him directly: “Mephibosheth.” Mephibosheth's Answer: And he replied, "Behold, thy servant!" What it Means – It’s About Forgiveness & Redemption: This verse is a profound message about God's mercy. Here's the core idea: David’s Perspective: David recognized Mephibosheth as his servant. He wasn't angry or resentful; he saw him as someone who needed forgiveness. Forgiveness & Redemption: The phrase "Behold, thy servant" is a powerful way of saying that David recognized that Mephibosheth was still deserving of love and compassion after all this tragedy. It’s not about forgetting the past; it's about rehabilitating him. David offered him forgiveness and a chance to be accepted back into his life. In essence, the verse is saying that God's love isn’t limited to those who have wronged Him. He can still forgive and restore even those who have made mistakes. It’s important to note: This story is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of David’s own repentance and his willingness to embrace a more compassionate view of his past. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context (like the themes of forgiveness and redemption)?