The answer is: Ishbosheth

2 Sam 2:8-11 - Even though Saul had died David still wasn't able to become king of Israel

In the rollercoaster saga of Israel's monarchy, the transition of power was anything but smooth! After David became king of Judah, his rival, Ishbosheth, seized the opportunity to be crowned king over Israel. The interesting twist? Ishbosheth was one of Saul’s sons! This isn’t just a story about succession; it’s a reflection of the complex power dynamics at play. Saul’s death may have cleared the way for a united kingdom, yet the scars of loyalty were still tender.

How about this fun fact: Ishbosheth's real name was actually "Eshbaal," which can be interpreted as "man of Baal." However, in Jewish tradition, names associated with idols were often avoided, leading to his more ‘palatable’ name choice that replaced Baal with “bosheth," meaning “shame.” This indicates how intertwined culture, religion, and politics were — names weren't just subject to personal taste!

Furthermore, David’s reign over Judah for seven years and six months before ruling over all Israel gives a striking exclamation point on patience and strategy in leadership. This period paved the way for David's ‘united monarchy’ and, despite the turbulence, ultimately shaped a narrative about resilience and trust in a larger plan. Reflecting on such events expands our understanding of the ancient struggles for unity and divine purpose in leadership. The ebb and flow of power always remind us that patience can lead to ultimate fulfillment!