Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of "The King's Table" in the Bible is rich with symbolism and significance, reflecting themes of provision, fellowship, authority, and divine favor. It appears in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, each offering a unique perspective on the relationship between God, His people, and the earthly kings who serve as His representatives.
Old Testament Context1.
David and Mephibosheth: One of the most poignant examples of the king's table is found in the account of King David and Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul. After David became king, he sought to show kindness to the house of Saul for Jonathan's sake. Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both feet, was brought to David, who restored to him all the land of Saul and invited him to eat at the king's table continually. This act of grace is recorded in
2 Samuel 9:7-13 : "David said to him, 'Do not be afraid, for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.'"
2.
Solomon's Abundance: The table of King Solomon is another significant reference, illustrating the wealth and prosperity of his reign.
1 Kings 4:22-23 describes the daily provisions for Solomon's table, highlighting the abundance and the extensive resources required to sustain his court: "Solomon’s provisions for a single day were thirty cors of fine flour, sixty cors of meal, ten fat oxen, twenty pasture-fed cattle, a hundred sheep, and goats, besides deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened poultry."
Symbolism and Themes1.
Provision and Abundance: The king's table is a symbol of divine provision and abundance. It reflects the idea that those who are in the king's favor, or by extension, in God's favor, will not lack for anything. This is echoed in
Psalm 23:5 , where David writes, "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows."
2.
Fellowship and Acceptance: Eating at the king's table signifies acceptance and fellowship. It is an invitation to share in the king's bounty and to be part of his inner circle. This is seen in the account of Mephibosheth, who, despite his physical disability and his lineage from a rival house, is welcomed and honored by David.
3.
Authority and Sovereignty: The king's table also represents the authority and sovereignty of the king. It is a place where decisions are made, and justice is administered. The presence at the king's table implies a recognition of the king's rule and a submission to his authority.
New Testament ReflectionIn the New Testament, the imagery of the king's table is transformed and fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. The Last Supper, as described in the Gospels, becomes a new kind of king's table, where Jesus, the King of Kings, shares a meal with His disciples. This meal signifies the establishment of a new covenant and the promise of eternal fellowship with Him.
Luke 22:29-30 records Jesus' words: "And I bestow on you a kingdom, just as My Father has bestowed one on Me, so that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Eschatological HopeThe king's table also points to the eschatological hope of the Messianic banquet, a future feast where believers will dine with Christ in His kingdom.
Revelation 19:9 speaks of this blessed event: "Then the angel told me to write, 'Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'" This ultimate king's table is a symbol of the eternal joy and communion that awaits the faithful in the presence of God.
