This parenthetical note shows that Saul’s royal line could not continue after the death of Ish-bosheth (2 Samuel 4:5–7). The only remaining heir was a young child who was disabled (see also 2 Samuel 9:1–13).
Mephibosheth may be a nickname that means “from the mouth of shame.” This name may reflect how people viewed his physical condition. Under the law of Moses, a disabled animal could not be offered to God. A priest with a physical defect could not stand before God to present the people’s offerings (Leviticus 21:19). In the same way, Mephibosheth’s disability likely made him unacceptable, in the eyes of many, as a candidate for the throne.
His earlier name, Merib-baal (see 1 Chronicles 9:40), included the word baal. His later name removed any association with Baal (see study note on 2 Samuel 2:8).