ISH-BOSHETH
“Man of shame.”
One of Saul’s youngest sons. At first he was called Es-baal (1 Chron. 8:33; 9:39; “the man of the lord, or man of Baal”).
This name was changed to Ish-bosheth, either in his lifetime, when the glory of his dynasty faded, or later, when the term baal fell into disrepute, because he remembered idolatry.
It appears that Ish-bosheth did not participate in the battle of Gilboa. In any case, he escaped the slaughter.
Upon Saul’s death, David reigned over Judah, but the other tribes refused to adhere to him, anointing Ish-bosheth as king in place of his father Saul. He reigned for two years (2 Sam. 2:8-10).
In his war with David, his general was Abner, who deserted him because of a dispute (2 Sam. 3:6-12). Abner was treacherously murdered by Joab (2 Sam. 3:22-30) and, soon after, Ish-bosheth fell victim to a conspiracy by two of his captains, who brought his head to David (2 Sam. 4 : 1-8).
David had the head of Ish-bosheth buried honorably and put to death his murderers (2 Sam. 4:9-12).