Mahanaim

Overview

• Type: Transjordan city / refuge
• Testament: Old
• Modern Location: East of the Jordan in Gilead

Biblical Significance

Mahanaim serves first as the base of Ishbosheth under Abner and later as a refuge for David during Absalom’s Rebellion.

Key Events

• Civil War - Ishbosheth is brought there as rival king
• Absalom’s Rebellion - David regroups there

Key People Associated

• Ishbosheth - Rules from Mahanaim
• Abner - Supports Ishbosheth there
• David - Finds refuge there

Important Verses

“But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul’s host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim.” - 2 Samuel 2:8

Cross-References

• 2 Samuel
• Jordan River

Notes

Mahanaim is one of 2 Samuel’s reversal cities: it houses Saul’s fading cause and later shelters David in his lowest royal hour.