1 Kings 2:7

But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.

But shew {H6213} kindness {H2617} unto the sons {H1121} of Barzillai {H1271} the Gileadite {H1569}, and let them be of those that eat {H398} at thy table {H7979}: for so they came {H7126} to me when I fled {H1272} because {H6440} of Absalom {H53} thy brother {H251}.

"But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gil'adi. Include them with those who eat at your table, because they came and stood with me when I was fleeing from Avshalom your brother.

But show loving devotion to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be among those who eat at your table, because they stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom.

But show kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table; for so they came to me when I fled from Absalom thy brother.

Commentary

1 Kings 2:7 is part of King David's final instructions to his son Solomon, as David prepares to die. This particular verse highlights David's enduring gratitude and commitment to those who showed him loyalty during his most vulnerable moments.

Context of 1 Kings 2:7

This verse is situated within David's deathbed charge to his successor, King Solomon (1 Kings 2:1-9). David provides Solomon with guidance on how to rule, emphasizing justice, faithfulness to God, and the need to deal appropriately with both friends and foes. While David instructs Solomon to punish certain individuals like Joab and Shimei for their past treachery, he explicitly commands kindness towards the sons of Barzillai. This contrast underscores the importance of remembering and rewarding loyalty.

The specific act of kindness David refers to dates back to the time when David fled from the rebellion of his son Absalom. During this perilous flight, Barzillai the Gileadite, a wealthy and influential man, provided crucial provisions and support to David and his weary followers (2 Samuel 17:27-29). Later, when David was returning to Jerusalem, he offered Barzillai a place at his royal table, but Barzillai, being old, declined and asked that his servant Chimham (likely one of his sons) be taken in his stead (2 Samuel 19:31-39). David's instruction to Solomon is a fulfillment of this promise and a lasting testament to his appreciation.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Gratitude and Loyalty: The verse powerfully illustrates the importance of remembering and rewarding those who demonstrate faithfulness and support. David, even in his dying moments, did not forget Barzillai's selfless aid.
  • Covenantal Kindness (Chesed): The Hebrew word often translated as "kindness" here is chesed (Χ—ΦΆΧ‘ΦΆΧ“), which denotes loyal love, steadfast mercy, or covenantal faithfulness. David's command is not just a polite gesture but a deep obligation based on Barzillai's loyal actions, extending that chesed to his descendants.
  • Fulfilling Promises: David's instruction to Solomon is a direct fulfillment of his promise to Barzillai in 2 Samuel 19:38. This emphasizes the importance of integrity and keeping one's word, especially for a king.
  • Royal Provision and Honor: To "eat at thy table" was a significant honor and privilege in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. It signified inclusion in the royal family's inner circle, guaranteed provision, and protection. This gesture elevated Barzillai's sons to a place of esteemed favor, similar to how David cared for Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son (2 Samuel 9:7).
  • Intergenerational Blessing: The kindness shown to Barzillai extends to his "sons," demonstrating that acts of loyalty and virtue can result in blessings that span generations.

Practical Application

1 Kings 2:7 offers timeless principles for personal conduct and leadership:

  • Remembering Benefactors: It reminds us to never forget those who have helped us, especially during difficult times. Gratitude should be a lasting quality, expressed tangibly.
  • The Power of Loyalty: The verse underscores the value of loyalty. Barzillai's willingness to risk his safety and resources for David resulted in enduring favor for his family.
  • Fulfilling Commitments: Just as David ensured his promise was kept, we are called to be people of our word, honoring our commitments to others.
  • Extending Kindness: Our acts of kindness can have far-reaching effects, even benefiting future generations. It encourages us to sow seeds of goodness.

Ultimately, this verse is a testament to David's character, his commitment to justice, and his deep appreciation for unwavering loyalty, setting a precedent for righteous rule for Solomon and future kings.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 17:27

    And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,

  • 2 Samuel 17:29

    And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and for the people that [were] with him, to eat: for they said, The people [is] hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.

  • 2 Samuel 9:7

    And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.

  • 2 Samuel 9:10

    Thou therefore, and thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in [the fruits], that thy master's son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.

  • 2 Samuel 19:31

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

  • 2 Samuel 19:40

    ΒΆ 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.

  • 2 Samuel 19:28

    For all [of] my father's house were but dead men before my lord the king: yet didst thou set thy servant among them that did eat at thine own table. What right therefore have I yet to cry any more unto the king?
← Back