David uses this question to initiate a formal search for survivors of Saul’s house, publicly demonstrating his intent to honor his covenant with Jonathan rather than follow the ancient Near Eastern custom of eliminating a predecessor’s family. The interrogative form invites his servants into the process and establishes witnesses to his merciful intent.

David’s servants informed him of Ziba, a former servant of Saul’s household. When questioned, Ziba revealed that Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth still lived in Lo-debar. David then summoned Mephibosheth, restored all of Saul’s land to him, gave him a permanent place at the king’s table, and appointed Ziba with his household to work the land for Mephibosheth’s provision (2 Samuel 9:2-13).

David’s question reveals the heart of a king who allows covenant loyalty to override political expediency. The Hebrew chesed carries weight beyond simple kindness, denoting steadfast love rooted in formal agreement. David asks rather than assumes because years have passed since Jonathan’s death at Mount Gilboa, and Saul’s household has been decimated through war and political upheaval. By framing this as a question before his court, David creates public accountability for his mercy and invites others to participate in locating survivors. The phrase “for Jonathan’s sake” anchors David’s motivation not in political strategy but in personal covenant. This question demonstrates how covenant faithfulness transcends death, political boundaries, and self-interest. David’s inquiry stands as a theological statement: promises made before God remain binding regardless of changed circumstances or personal cost.