2 Samuel 15:21

KJV

And Ittai answered the king, and said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] my lord the king liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life, even there also will thy servant be.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ittai {H863} answered {H6030} the king {H4428}, and said {H559}, As the LORD {H3068} liveth {H2416}, and as my lord {H113} the king {H4428} liveth {H2416}, surely in what place {H4725} my lord {H113} the king {H4428} shall be, whether in death {H4194} or life {H2416}, even there also will thy servant {H5650} be.

Complete Jewish Bible

But Ittai answered the king, "As ADONAI lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether for death or for life, your servant will be there too."

Berean Standard Bible

But Ittai answered the king, “As surely as the LORD lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be!”

American Standard Version

And Ittai answered the king, and said, As Jehovah liveth, and as my lord the king liveth, surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether for death or for life, even there also will thy servant be.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 15:21 profoundly captures the unwavering loyalty of Ittai the Gittite, a Philistine foreigner, to King David during the tumultuous period of Absalom's rebellion. As David, forced to flee Jerusalem, compassionately urges Ittai to return to his homeland, Ittai responds with an extraordinary and solemn oath, pledging absolute and unconditional fidelity. His vow to remain with David "whether in death or life" exemplifies a rare and powerful commitment that transcends national identity, personal safety, and conventional expectations, standing in stark contrast to the widespread betrayal David experiences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pivotal verse is situated amidst the dramatic and sorrowful narrative of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David, as vividly detailed in [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion"). David has been compelled to abandon Jerusalem, his capital, due to the swift and overwhelming support Absalom cunningly garnered through political intrigue and popular appeal, effectively "stealing the hearts of the men of Israel" ([2 Samuel 15:6](/2_samuel/15-6 "2 Samuel 15:6 - Absalom Steals Hearts")). As David and his loyal entourage embark on their mournful exodus from the city, they encounter Ittai the Gittite, a commander of six hundred men who had only recently joined David's ranks. David, displaying remarkable compassion and realism in his moment of distress, suggests that Ittai, being a foreigner and a recent arrival, should return to his own people rather than face the immense uncertainty and danger of following a king in exile ([2 Samuel 15:19-20](/2_samuel/15-19-20 "2 Samuel 15:19-20 - David's Compassion for Ittai")). Ittai's powerful declaration in [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Unwavering Loyalty") is a direct, resolute, and deeply moving response to David's compassionate offer, showcasing an unexpected and profound devotion that stands in stark contrast to the betrayal David experiences from his own son and many Israelites.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ittai is specifically identified as a "Gittite," signifying his origin from Gath, one of the principal cities of the Philistines. The Philistines were Israel's long-standing, formidable, and often hostile enemies, a fact underscored by figures like Goliath of Gath ([1 Samuel 17:4](/1_samuel/17-4 "1 Samuel 17:4 - Goliath the Philistine from Gath")). This background makes Ittai's loyalty exceptionally remarkable and culturally significant. Philistines were typically viewed with suspicion and animosity by the Israelites, rendering Ittai's integration into David's inner circle and his subsequent unwavering commitment a testament to David's charismatic leadership and, ultimately, God's sovereign work. Oaths sworn "as the LORD liveth" were a common and extremely binding form of solemn promise in ancient Israelite culture, invoking God's very existence as a guarantee of truth and fidelity ([1 Samuel 20:3](/1_samuel/20-3 "1 Samuel 20:3 - Jonathan's Oath to David")). For a foreigner to use such an oath, especially one invoking Yahweh, the God of Israel, underscores a deep respect and perhaps even a nascent faith in the God of David, elevating his pledge beyond mere human allegiance to a sacred and unbreakable vow.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - The Reign of King David"). Foremost is the theme of **Loyalty and Betrayal**, starkly contrasting Absalom's cunning treachery with Ittai's steadfastness. It highlights that true devotion can emerge from the most unexpected sources, challenging conventional expectations of kinship and nationality. The theme of **Faithfulness in Adversity** is also profoundly prominent, as Ittai's commitment is tested not in David's glory or prosperity but in his humiliation, weakness, and flight, demonstrating that genuine allegiance is revealed and proven in suffering. Furthermore, Ittai's oath, invoking both the LORD and the king, subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility**, suggesting that even amidst human rebellion and political upheaval, God's hand is at work, inspiring faithfulness where it is least expected. Finally, Ittai's foreign origin yet profound commitment foreshadows the eventual inclusion of Gentiles into God's redemptive plan, a theme that becomes more explicit in later biblical narratives, such as the prophecy of Israel being a "light for the Gentiles" ([Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Gentiles")) and the New Testament's fulfillment in the church.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Liveth (Hebrew: חַי, _ḥay_):** This word, repeated twice in Ittai's oath ("As the LORD liveth, and as my lord the king liveth"), is a powerful affirmation of existence, vitality, and active presence. In the context of an oath, it signifies the absolute certainty and gravity of the speaker's promise, as if to say, "By the very existence and active life of God and the king, what I declare is true and eternally binding." It elevates the promise to an unbreakable vow, invoking ultimate reality and authority. For Ittai, a non-Israelite, to swear by the life of Yahweh indicates a profound recognition of the God of Israel's supremacy, or at least a deep respect for David's God, alongside his respect for David himself. It underscores the living and active nature of both God and the king as the foundation of his pledge.
* **Place (Hebrew: מָקוֹם, _mâqôwm_):** This term, translated as "place" in "in what place my lord the king shall be," signifies not merely a physical location but can also refer to a "condition" or "state" of being. It suggests a comprehensive commitment to David's circumstances, whether geographical or existential. Ittai's pledge is not limited to following David to a specific city or region, but rather to sharing his entire lot, encompassing whatever "condition" David finds himself in—be it exile, battle, or even death. This broad meaning intensifies the scope of Ittai's loyalty, making it a holistic commitment to David's destiny.
* **Servant (Hebrew: עֶבֶד, _'ebed_):** Ittai refers to himself as "thy servant." While "servant" can denote a literal bond-servant, in this context, it carries the profound weight of devoted allegiance, humble submission, and chosen fidelity to authority. Ittai's use of this term is not one of forced servitude but of willing, loyal commitment. It signifies his readiness to place himself entirely at David's disposal, to share in his fate, and to fulfill whatever duties are required, embodying humility and absolute dedication. This self-identification underscores the depth of his personal bond with David, transcending his foreign status and highlighting a chosen, rather than coerced, relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ittai answered the king, and said":** This introductory clause establishes the immediate context of Ittai's declaration as a direct and deliberate response. It highlights that Ittai's words are not impulsive but a considered reply to David's compassionate but testing offer for him to return home. This sets the stage for the profound weight and intentionality of his subsequent oath.
* **"[As] the LORD liveth, and [as] my lord the king liveth":** This is a solemn, double oath, characteristic of ancient Near Eastern and biblical vows, invoking the most sacred and binding authorities. By invoking the life of Yahweh (the God of Israel) first, Ittai places his promise under divine sanction, making it a sacred and unbreakable covenant. The subsequent invocation of "my lord the king liveth" binds his loyalty to David's very existence and authority. This dual oath emphasizes the absolute certainty, gravity, and seriousness of his commitment, demonstrating a profound reverence for both God and David.
* **"surely in what place my lord the king shall be, whether in death or life":** This clause articulates the comprehensive scope and extreme nature of Ittai's loyalty. The phrase "surely in what place" indicates an unconditional following, irrespective of location or circumstance. The powerful expression "whether in death or life" employs merism, signifying all possible circumstances, from the most dire to the most hopeful. It means his allegiance is unconditional and extends to the very end, pledging to follow David through any circumstance, no matter how perilous, even if it means facing his own demise alongside the king. This is a profound pledge of solidarity in the face of mortal danger and profound uncertainty.
* **"even there also will thy servant be":** This concluding declaration is the ultimate statement of Ittai's unwavering resolve and personal dedication. It reiterates his self-identification as David's "servant," emphasizing his chosen role of submission and devotion. This clause unequivocally states his intention to remain physically and spiritually present with David, sharing his fate and participating in his destiny. It is a vow of absolute, unwavering presence and participation, a stark and moving contrast to the widespread abandonment David was experiencing from his own people.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Unwavering Loyalty") is the **Oath** or **Vow**. Ittai's declaration is a solemn, binding promise, underscored by the invocation of divine and royal life. This form of oath-taking was a powerful rhetorical and legal act in the ancient world, lending immense weight, credibility, and sacredness to the speaker's words. The phrase "whether in death or life" powerfully employs **Merism**, a figure of speech where two contrasting parts represent a complete whole (i.e., all possible circumstances, good or bad, from beginning to end). This intensifies the scope and totality of Ittai's commitment, making it all-encompassing and leaving no room for conditions. Furthermore, the verse exhibits clear **Parallelism** in the structure of the oath ("As the LORD liveth, and as my lord the king liveth"), which adds rhythmic emphasis, reinforces the dual nature of Ittai's allegiance, and underscores the solemnity of his pledge. The entire statement functions as a powerful moment of **Dramatic Irony** or **Contrast**, as the most profound loyalty and steadfastness comes from an unexpected foreigner, a Gittite, while David's own son and many Israelites betray him. This highlights the unexpected sources of faithfulness and divine providence in times of crisis.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ittai's declaration of unwavering loyalty stands as a powerful testament to the nature of true commitment, echoing themes found throughout Scripture regarding covenant faithfulness and steadfast love. His pledge to remain with David "whether in death or life" transcends mere human allegiance, touching upon the very essence of devoted partnership and self-sacrificial fidelity. This profound commitment, offered by a foreigner when David's own people were abandoning him, highlights God's ability to raise up faithful individuals from unexpected places, demonstrating His sovereign hand at work even in times of deep distress and betrayal. Theologically, it reminds us that genuine devotion is proven not in prosperity but in adversity, reflecting a divine principle where true character and allegiance are forged and revealed under pressure. Ittai's unexpected faithfulness serves as a beautiful prefigurement of God's redemptive plan to include all nations in His covenant, drawing people from every tribe and tongue into His fold.
* [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty to Naomi")
* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ittai's steadfastness in [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Unwavering Loyalty") serves as a timeless and challenging example of what it means to be truly committed. In a world often characterized by fair-weather friendships, conditional loyalties, and self-preservation, Ittai's declaration calls us to a higher standard of fidelity and self-giving. It prompts us to examine the depth of our own commitments—to God, to our spouses, to family, to friends, and to those we lead or follow. Are we willing to stand by others not just in their moments of triumph and ease, but especially when they face trials, humiliation, uncertainty, or public disgrace? Ittai chose to share David's uncertain and perilous fate, demonstrating that true allegiance is forged and proven in the crucible of adversity, not merely in shared success. This challenges us to cultivate a spirit of unwavering devotion, recognizing that the most profound and enduring bonds are often tested and strengthened in shared suffering, reflecting the very heart of Christ's sacrificial love for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are your loyalties currently being tested, and how can you respond with Ittai's level of commitment?**
* **What does Ittai's commitment "whether in death or life" teach us about the nature of true friendship, allegiance, and covenant faithfulness?**
* **How does Ittai's foreign background make his loyalty even more remarkable, and what does this suggest about God's sovereign work in unexpected places and through unexpected people?**
* **How can you practically apply Ittai's example of steadfastness and unconditional presence in your relationships or commitments this week, particularly towards those facing difficulty?**

### FAQ
**Why was Ittai the Gittite's loyalty so significant given his background?**

Answer: Ittai's loyalty was profoundly significant precisely because he was a Gittite, meaning he hailed from Gath, a major Philistine city. The Philistines were the long-standing, bitter enemies of Israel, often engaged in warfare and conflict with David's people, as seen throughout [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Rise of King David") and [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - The Reign of King David"). For a commander of six hundred men from this traditional enemy territory to not only join David's ranks but also pledge such unwavering, unconditional loyalty during David's most vulnerable moment—his flight from Absalom's rebellion—was truly extraordinary. It defied all cultural and national expectations, highlighting David's unique and compelling leadership appeal, and perhaps even a recognition of the God of Israel by Ittai. This unexpected devotion underscored the depth of the crisis David faced, as his own son and many of his own people betrayed him, while a foreigner stood firm, choosing to share David's uncertain future "whether in death or life" ([2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Unwavering Loyalty")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ittai's extraordinary loyalty to King David, pledging to be with him "whether in death or life," serves as a powerful Old Testament shadow of the ultimate fidelity demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Just as Ittai, a foreigner, chose to align himself completely with David in his suffering and exile, so too does Christ, the ultimate faithful Servant, identify completely with humanity in its fallen state, even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). While Ittai swore an oath to follow his king, Jesus' commitment to His Father's will and to His people was not an oath but an inherent, perfect obedience, a divine loyalty that led Him to lay down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). Ittai's willingness to share David's uncertain fate foreshadows the call for believers to "take up their cross daily and follow" Christ, regardless of the cost or uncertainty, knowing that following Him leads to true life ([Luke 9:23](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus")). Ultimately, Ittai's unwavering presence with David in his darkest hour points to Christ's eternal promise to never leave nor forsake His people, remaining with them always, even to the end of the age ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission and Christ's Presence")). He is the King who, unlike David, never flees in defeat but conquers death, ensuring that all who are "in Him" will share in His eternal life, not just His suffering, for we are "united with him in a death like his" and "we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his" ([Romans 6:5-8](/romans/6-5-8 "Romans 6:5-8 - United with Christ in Death and Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ruth 1:16

And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, [or] to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people [shall be] my people, and thy God my God:

Ruth 1:17

Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, [if ought] but death part thee and me.

Proverbs 17:17

¶ A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

2 Kings 4:30

And the mother of the child said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her.

2 Kings 2:6

And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on.

Proverbs 18:24

¶ A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.

2 Kings 2:4

And Elijah said unto him, Elisha, tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Jericho. And he said, [As] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they came to Jericho.