Ish-boh´shith; Heb., “man of shame”
The fourth son of Saul (2Sam 3:14-15). This version of his name appears in the book of Samuel and is, according to most modern scholars, a theologically corrected reading of the original name Eshbaal (“gift of Baal”), which is preserved in (1Chr 8:33 and 1Chr 9:39). The name was changed in order to avoid use of “Baal” in proper names (Hos 2:16-17). Upon the death of Saul, Ishbosheth attempted to rule all of the tribes. The tribe of Judah refused allegiance. With Abner as general, Ishbosheth set up his capital east of the Jordan River at Mahanaim (2Sam 2:8-10). After a stormy career, during which Abner deserted him, Ishbosheth was murdered by two of his own henchmen, Rechab and Baanah, who took his head to David at Hebron, expecting a reward. However, David’s sense of justice led to the execution of the two criminals and the burial of the head of Ishbosheth at Hebron (2Sam 4). This event marked the end of Saul’s brief dynasty.
