Ishbaal
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ishbaal in the Bible?
Ishbaal, also known as Ishbosheth, was a son of Saul who succeeded him as king over the northern tribes of Israel but was eventually assassinated by his own captains.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Ishbaal clarifies the political fragmentation of Israel after Saul's death and illustrates the transition of power from the house of Saul to the house of David.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Ishbaal reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ishbaal in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ishbaal clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Ishbaal." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ishbaal/