NOTES for Sa2 4:1-12
As so often happens, it is not only worthy people who go over to the victor’s side, but also base turncoats. Two of them treacherously murder Ish-bosheth in his sleep and bring his head to David. David’s act of punishing the murderers is not unexpected: it follows from his character and accords with all his previous actions. David can be severe and is often merciless, but for him it is unthinkable to establish himself in power at the cost of dishonor and treachery. That is precisely why David has no intention of tolerating traitors beside him who vainly try to earn his favor through a treacherous murder.
Yet David does not grant Ish-bosheth’s remains royal funeral honors. It does not seem unjust that the head is buried with Abner’s remains: both Abner and Ish-bosheth fell victim to treachery condemned by David. But the reign of Saul’s house has come to an end. David is now the sole king over Israel and Judah.