Bible Figure

Ish-bosheth

Male • Old Testament
biblical character (Second Book of Samuel)
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Ish-bosheth was Saul's surviving son whom Abner established as king over Israel while David ruled Judah from Hebron.
Ish-bosheth

Biography

After Saul's death, Abner made Ish-bosheth king over much of Israel, producing a divided kingdom and prolonged conflict with David's house. Ish-bosheth's position depended heavily on Abner. When he accused Abner concerning Saul's concubine Rizpah, Abner angrily transferred his support to David. After Abner's murder, Ish-bosheth lost courage and was assassinated by two of his own captains, whom David subsequently executed.

Biblical Significance

Ish-bosheth's brief reign forms the transition between Saul's dynasty and David's rule over all Israel. David's response to his murder reinforces the narrative's insistence that David would not seize the throne through unlawful bloodshed.