2 Samuel 9:8

2 Samuel 9:8 Meaning and Explanation

And he bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Mephibosheth bows and, astonished, calls himself a 'dead dog' unworthy of the king's notice.

What Does 2 Samuel 9:8 Mean?

Overwhelmed, Mephibosheth bows again and protests his own unworthiness, naming himself a 'dead dog' -- the lowest, most worthless thing he can imagine. He cannot fathom why the king would even look upon one so lame, so powerless, so far beneath royal favor.

This is the right posture before undeserved kindness: not entitlement, but wonder. He measures the gift against his own smallness and is amazed. Such is the cry of every soul that grasps grace -- not 'what is owed me?' but 'who am I, that the King should look upon me?' Mercy received in humility magnifies the Giver.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Samuel 9:8

What does 2 Samuel 9:8 mean?

Mephibosheth bows and, astonished, calls himself a 'dead dog' unworthy of the king's notice.

Keep Studying 2 Samuel 9

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.