CONTENTS
This chapter continues the history of David, and is directed to that part of his character which represents the amiableness of his mind, in his kindness towards the house of Saul. Finding, on enquiry, that Jonathan had left a son behind him, David searcheth him out, makes suitable provision for him, and sets him at his own table.
(1) В¶ And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?
It should seem by the expression, Is there yet any left of the house of Saul? that he had before this been showing kindness to his family. Indeed, it would otherwise imply inattention in David, instead of kindness; for many years must have now passed since his accession to the throne. No doubt, he was not established in the kingdom for many years after the death of Saul, in consequence of Ish-bosheth's pretensions to the kingdom: but, after all Israel anointed David king at Jerusalem, and he had gone forth in the destruction of Israel's enemies, as related in the preceding chapter, David seems to have paid an early attention to the wants of Saul's house.