Verses 1-13

David and Mephibosheth

2 Samuel 9-20 have apparently been taken from a single document, written not long after the events recorded, and with special and unique knowledge of the circumstances of David's court and its life.

1-6. As soon as his wars were over, David remembered his promise to his friend Jonathan, and sends for his son Mephibosheth (or Meribbaal).

7-13. David entertains Mephibosheth at his table, and bestows on him all the property that formerly belonged to Saul.

12. Mephibosheth had a young son] When Saul died, Mephibosheth was only five years old (2 Samuel 4:4), so that this brings us nearly to the middle of David's reign.