2 Samuel 4:7 meaning

The events surrounding the death of Ish-bosheth reveal vital insights into loyalty, power, and justice in a tumultuous period of Israel's history. Following the assassination of Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, his murderers, Rechab and Baanah, presumed they were acting favorably towards David by presenting to him the head of their slain king. In their minds, they were not just removing a rival but serving what they thought was a divine justice. This act of treachery, however, was seen starkly differently by David, who regarded Ish-bosheth as a "righteous man" and was appalled by the murder carried out in such a cowardly manner.