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Youngest of the four sons of Saul, and who claimed the throne on the death of his father and his elder brothers. Apparently he did not begin to reign till five years after, and then reigned two years, over all the tribes except Judah, Benjamin, and perhaps Simeon. He was supported by Abner the head of Saul's army; but made his head quarters at Mahanaim, east of the Jordan. There was long war between the two houses, but David waxed stronger and stronger, and Ish-bosheth became weaker and weaker. Abner's pride was deeply wounded by a remonstrance from Ish-bosheth, and he revolted to David, and then spoke to the elders of Israel in David's favour. After the treacherous murder of Abner by Joab, Baanah and Rechab, captains of bands, slew Ish-bosheth as he lay on his bed, and cutting off his head brought it to David, doubtless expecting a reward; they
were however at once put to death, for David could not sanction such wickedness. David was then made king of all the tribes, being God's chosen and anointed one. 2 Sam. 2: 8-17; 2 Sam. 3: 6-16; 2 Sam. 4: 5-12. Apparently Ish-bosheth is called ESH-BAAL in 1 Chr. 8: 33; 1 Chr. 9: 39.