Who was Barzillai in this passage and why is he called a great man?

Barzillai is an elderly man from Gilead who had supported David with food and supplies when David stayed at Mahanaim during a time of trouble. He is called a great man because he was very wealthy and used his wealth generously to care for the king and his household. His greatness is not only about money but about his wise and kind heart. He understood his duty to help God’s chosen king when he was in distress, and he did it freely, without looking for reward.

Why does David invite Barzillai to come with him to Jerusalem?

David invites Barzillai to come with him to Jerusalem as a way to honor him for his past kindness. Barzillai had fed and supported David when he was away from his throne, so David now offers to feed Barzillai at his own table. This shows David’s gratitude and his desire to repay good with good. It also shows that those who stand by God’s servants in hard times are noticed and valued, even when the trouble has passed and life begins to return to normal.

Why does Barzillai refuse David’s offer to live in Jerusalem?

Barzillai gently refuses because he is about eighty years old and feels the weakness of age. He says he can no longer enjoy the food, drink, and music of the king’s court and cannot tell well between good and bad. He does not want to be a burden to David or change his way of life so late in his years. Instead, he wants to go back to his own city, die there, and be buried near the graves of his father and mother. His answer shows humility, realism, and contentment.

Who is Chimham and why does Barzillai ask David to take him instead?

Chimham is introduced as Barzillai’s servant, understood here as his son. When Barzillai turns down David’s offer, he asks that Chimham might go with the king in his place. By doing this, Barzillai passes the opportunity on to the next generation. He is content to stay home, but he wants his son to share in David’s favor and service. David agrees and promises to do for Chimham whatever Barzillai thinks good, showing respect for Barzillai and care for his family.

What does Barzillai’s speech tell us about old age and humility?

Barzillai’s words give an honest picture of old age. He speaks about failing senses, little taste for rich food, and no delight in music. Rather than complaining, he uses this to explain why a royal life would not suit him. He does not grasp for honor or comfort but thinks about what is fitting and useful. He is careful not to be a burden to the king. His humility shows in how he counts his service as small and the king’s offer as more than he deserves, even though he has done much.

What is the significance of David kissing and blessing Barzillai?

When David kisses and blesses Barzillai, it is a warm and public farewell. The kiss shows close friendship and respect, not just politeness. The blessing is David’s prayer and good wish for Barzillai, asking God’s favor on him. This moment shows that God’s king values quiet helpers who may never live at court or hold office. Barzillai returns to his own place, but he goes with the king’s love and with honor before all the people who watched them part.

What was happening in Israel when David crossed the Jordan with Barzillai?

David is on his way back to his throne after a time when he had fled and lived away from Jerusalem. Many people are coming to meet him and help bring him back across the Jordan River. Barzillai goes down from his town of Rogelim to escort the king over the river. After David and Barzillai part, David continues to Gilgal, while the people of Judah and part of Israel go with him. Around this time, there are tensions between the tribes about who should have the honor of bringing the king back.

What does this passage show about how to use wealth and position?

This passage shows a man who had wealth and standing using them in a quiet, faithful way. Barzillai had been a “very great man,” yet he spent his resources to support David when David was in need. He did not hold onto his money for himself alone. Later, when David wants to reward him, Barzillai does not demand more honor. Instead, he asks that kindness be shown to his son. This shows a heart that sees wealth as something to share, and honor as something to pass on, not cling to.

How can the example of Barzillai and Chimham guide believers today?

Their example encourages believers to use what they have to support God’s work and God’s people, especially in hard seasons. Barzillai did not wait for perfect conditions; he helped when David was in distress. His humility in old age reminds older believers that it is good to know their limits and to bless and encourage younger people to step forward. Chimham going on with David shows how the next generation can walk with God’s servants. Together, they picture generous giving, humble hearts, and care for those who come after us.

2Sam.19.31

2 Samuel 19:31

KJV

¶ And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.

David’s Kindness to Barzillai

¶ And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.

Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very great man.

And the king said unto Barzillai, Come thou over with me, and I will feed thee with me in Jerusalem.

And Barzillai said unto the king, How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?

I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

Thy servant will go a little way over Jordan with the king: and why should the king recompense it me with such a reward?

Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, and be buried by the grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.

And the king answered, Chimham shall go over with me, and I will do to him that which shall seem good unto thee: and whatsoever thou shalt require of me, that will I do for thee.

And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.

Then the king went on to Gilgal, and Chimham went on with him: and all the people of Judah conducted the king, and also half the people of Israel.

Cross References

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