2 Samuel 15:22

KJV

And David said to Ittai, Go and pass over. And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones that [were] with him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559} to Ittai {H863}, Go {H3212} and pass over {H5674}. And Ittai {H863} the Gittite {H1663} passed over {H5674}, and all his men {H582}, and all the little ones {H2945} that were with him.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Go, move along," said David to Ittai; and Ittai the Gitti moved on, accompanied by all his men and the little ones with him.

Berean Standard Bible

“March on then,” said David to Ittai. So Ittai the Gittite marched past with all his men and all the little ones who were with him.

American Standard Version

And David said to Ittai, Go and pass over. And Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones that were with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Captures a profound moment of unwavering loyalty during King David's desperate flight from Absalom's rebellion. This verse marks the physical manifestation of Ittai the Gittite's steadfast vow to remain with David, highlighting his remarkable commitment as a foreigner who, along with his entire household, chose to share the king's uncertain fate rather than seek personal safety. It stands as a striking counterpoint to the betrayal David experienced from his own son and many of his people, underscoring the unexpected sources of faithfulness that emerge in times of crisis.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the poignant and pivotal exchange recorded in [2 Samuel 15:19-21](/2_samuel/15-19 "2 Samuel 15:19-21 - David and Ittai's Exchange"). David, humbled and distressed by Absalom's coup, had urged Ittai, a Philistine from Gath and a relatively recent addition to his retinue, to return to Jerusalem. David reasoned that Ittai, as a foreigner, had no obligation to share in his exile and should not be burdened by his misfortune. However, Ittai's response in [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Vow of Loyalty") is one of the most powerful declarations of loyalty in the Old Testament: "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." [2 Samuel 15:22](/2_samuel/15-22) then records the immediate fulfillment of that vow, as Ittai and his entire company join David's exodus. This act sets the stage for David's continued flight, his crossing of the Kidron Valley, and the subsequent events of the rebellion detailed in [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins") and [2 Samuel 16](/2_samuel/16 "2 Samuel 16 - David's Flight and Shimei's Curse").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The backdrop is Absalom's meticulously planned and rapidly executed rebellion, which had taken Jerusalem by surprise and forced King David to flee his capital ([2 Samuel 15:13-14](/2_samuel/15-13 "2 Samuel 15:13-14 - Absalom's Coup")). David's flight was not a strategic retreat but a desperate escape, highlighting his vulnerability as a monarch. In this era, foreign mercenaries or loyalists, like Ittai and the Cherethites and Pelethites (David's personal guard, likely Philistine or Cretan in origin), often played crucial roles in royal security. Ittai's origin from Gath, a major Philistine city and historical enemy of Israel, makes his loyalty particularly striking. Philistines and Israelites had a long history of conflict, exemplified by figures like Goliath. For a Gittite to pledge such comprehensive loyalty to the Israelite king, even bringing his entire family into danger, speaks volumes about David's character and leadership, or perhaps Ittai's profound personal conviction. This event also underscores the precarious nature of power and the fluidity of allegiances in ancient Near Eastern monarchies.
* **Key Themes:** The passage powerfully articulates several key themes central to the book of [2 Samuel](/2_samuel/1 "2 Samuel - The Reign of King David"). Foremost is the theme of **Unwavering Loyalty versus Betrayal**. Ittai's steadfast devotion stands in stark contrast to the treachery of David's own son, Absalom, and the fickle allegiance of many Israelites who quickly sided with the usurper. This highlights the idea that true faithfulness can come from unexpected sources. Another significant theme is **Divine Providence and Unexpected Allies**. Even in David's darkest hour, when his kingdom seemed to be crumbling, God provided loyal support through an "outsider," demonstrating His sovereign hand in sustaining His anointed. The verse also speaks to the **Nature of True Devotion**, illustrating that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice and a willingness to share in adversity, not just prosperity. Finally, it underscores **Leadership in Crisis**, as David, despite his personal failings, still possessed the character to inspire profound loyalty in others, even as he faced the consequences of his past actions and the challenges of his present predicament.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ittai (Hebrew, _’Ittay_):** The precise meaning of Ittai's name is debated, possibly deriving from a root meaning "with me" or "timely." Regardless of its etymology, Ittai's character embodies the very essence of his name's potential meaning, as he truly was "with" David in his time of greatest need. His presence underscores the personal bond he had forged with the king, transcending ethnic and national divides.
* **Gittite (Hebrew, _Gittiy_):** This designation explicitly identifies Ittai as originating from Gath, one of the five principal Philistine cities. The Philistines were long-standing adversaries of Israel, making Ittai's unwavering loyalty to David, the king of Israel, exceptionally remarkable. This detail emphasizes the extraordinary nature of his commitment, highlighting that faithfulness is not bound by ethnicity or historical enmity but by personal conviction and relationship.
* **Pass over (Hebrew, _‘abar_):** The Hebrew verb עָבַר (_‘abar_) means "to cross over, pass through, pass by." In this context, it refers to the physical act of traversing a boundary, likely the Kidron Valley as David and his loyal followers left Jerusalem. However, it also carries symbolic weight, representing a decisive crossing from a place of safety or neutrality into a shared journey of peril and uncertainty with the king. It signifies a commitment that is not merely verbal but active and embodied.
#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said to Ittai, Go and pass over."**: This opening clause reiterates David's initial instruction to Ittai, given in [2 Samuel 15:19](/2_samuel/15-19 "2 Samuel 15:19 - David's Plea to Ittai"), to return to Jerusalem. It highlights David's humility and concern for Ittai's welfare, offering him an honorable way out of the perilous situation. It also serves as the final test of Ittai's declared loyalty, giving him one last opportunity to reconsider his dangerous pledge.
* **"And Ittai the Gittite passed over,"**: This phrase records Ittai's immediate and decisive action, fulfilling his solemn vow from [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Declaration"). The re-emphasis of his identity as "the Gittite" underscores the extraordinary nature of his loyalty, given his foreign origin and the historical animosity between Philistines and Israelites. His action demonstrates a commitment that is not merely verbal but is manifested in costly obedience.
* **"and all his men,"**: This indicates that Ittai was not alone but commanded a contingent of his own loyal followers, likely a mercenary troop. Their collective decision to "pass over" with Ittai amplifies the scale of the commitment. It suggests that Ittai's leadership inspired similar faithfulness in those under his command, making their combined force a significant addition to David's desperate company.
* **"and all the little ones that [were] with him."**: This is perhaps the most poignant and significant detail of the verse. The inclusion of "all the little ones" (likely referring to women and children, the families of Ittai and his men) underscores the comprehensive and sacrificial nature of their loyalty. They were not merely mercenaries on a campaign but a community fully committing their entire lives and futures to David's cause, putting their most vulnerable members at risk. This detail profoundly emphasizes the depth of their devotion and the high stakes involved in their choice.
#### Literary Devices
The narrative of [2 Samuel 15:22](/2_samuel/15-22) masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. Most notably, **Contrast** is powerfully utilized, setting Ittai's unwavering loyalty against the backdrop of Absalom's profound betrayal and the desertion of many of David's own people. This stark juxtaposition elevates Ittai's faithfulness as a beacon in a time of widespread defection. Furthermore, Ittai serves as a potent **Symbolism** of unexpected faithfulness and divine provision. As a foreigner from a historically hostile nation, his choice to stand with David symbolizes that God can raise up allies from the most unlikely sources, even when those closest to us fail. The repeated emphasis on the act of "passing over" (both in David's command and Ittai's action) also functions as a subtle form of **Repetition**, highlighting the decisive and irreversible nature of Ittai's commitment and the physical threshold they were crossing into a new, uncertain reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound loyalty of Ittai the Gittite in [2 Samuel 15:22](/2_samuel/15-22) resonates deeply with broader biblical themes of faithfulness, covenant, and divine providence. In a narrative fraught with betrayal and human failure, Ittai's devotion shines as a testament to the power of genuine commitment, often found in the most unexpected places. Theologically, it reminds us that God's plan for His anointed, David, would not be thwarted, and He would raise up faithful allies, even from outside the covenant community, to sustain His purposes. This highlights a recurring motif in Scripture where God uses "outsiders" or those considered unlikely to accomplish His will, demonstrating His sovereignty over all peoples and circumstances. Ittai's willingness to sacrifice his and his family's security for David's sake also reflects the costly nature of true discipleship and the call to stand with those who are suffering or in exile.
* [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth's Vow of Loyalty to Naomi")
* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "Greater Love Has No One Than This")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Ittai the Gittite in [2 Samuel 15:22](/2_samuel/15-22) offers a powerful and enduring challenge to believers today regarding the nature of true loyalty and commitment. In a world often characterized by fleeting allegiances and self-preservation, Ittai's decision to "pass over" with David, bringing his entire household into danger, serves as a compelling example of costly discipleship. It reminds us that genuine faithfulness is not merely a sentiment but a sacrificial act, demonstrated most profoundly in times of adversity. We are called to be people who stand by others, especially those in leadership or those suffering, not just when it is convenient or beneficial, but when it demands personal cost. Furthermore, Ittai's story encourages us to recognize and value the unexpected allies God may send into our lives, often from backgrounds or places we least anticipate. His loyalty also prompts us to examine the depth of our own commitment to Christ – are we willing to follow Him wherever He leads, even when it means leaving behind comfort and security, and bringing all that we hold dear into His service?
#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Ittai's loyalty challenge our understanding of commitment in difficult times, especially when compared to the common tendency towards self-preservation?**
* **In what ways might God be calling us to demonstrate "Ittai-like" faithfulness in our own lives, whether in our relationships, our church, or our commitment to a cause?**
* **What "little ones" (vulnerabilities, dependents, cherished possessions, or future plans) are we truly willing to "pass over" with Christ in our commitment to Him, acknowledging the potential cost?**

### FAQ
**Why was Ittai, a Gittite and a Philistine, so loyal to David, an Israelite king?**

Answer: While the Bible doesn't explicitly state the reasons for Ittai's profound loyalty, several factors likely contributed. Ittai was probably a mercenary captain in David's service, and over time, a deep personal bond and respect may have developed between them. David, despite his flaws, was a charismatic leader who inspired fierce devotion. Ittai may have recognized David's anointing by God or simply admired his character and leadership. Furthermore, Ittai's declaration in [2 Samuel 15:21](/2_samuel/15-21 "2 Samuel 15:21 - Ittai's Vow") includes an oath by "the LORD," suggesting he may have come to acknowledge the God of Israel. Ultimately, his loyalty transcends typical political or ethnic boundaries, pointing to a genuine, personal commitment that God sovereignly used to support His anointed king.

**What is the significance of "all the little ones that [were] with him" in this verse?**

Answer: The inclusion of "all the little ones" (referring to women and children, the families of Ittai and his men) is highly significant. It transforms Ittai's commitment from a mere professional obligation or a personal risk into a total, comprehensive, and sacrificial act. It means Ittai was not just risking his own life, but the lives and well-being of his entire family and dependents. This detail powerfully emphasizes the depth of his devotion to David, as he brought everything he held dear into the king's desperate flight. It highlights the profound trust Ittai placed in David's leadership and God's protection, demonstrating a loyalty that was absolute and without reservation.

**How does this event relate to David's character and leadership?**

Answer: This event profoundly reveals aspects of David's character and leadership, especially in crisis. Firstly, it shows David's humility; he was willing to release Ittai from his obligation, demonstrating concern for his foreign ally's welfare rather than demanding loyalty. Secondly, it underscores David's remarkable ability to inspire profound devotion, even in those considered "outsiders." Despite his personal and familial failings that led to the rebellion, David's core character as God's anointed king still drew unwavering loyalty from some, contrasting sharply with the betrayal by his own son. This incident highlights the complex interplay of David's human flaws and his divinely-ordained leadership.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The unwavering loyalty of Ittai the Gittite to King David in his hour of desperate flight serves as a powerful type and shadow of the comprehensive devotion required of those who follow Christ, the true King of kings. Just as Ittai, a foreigner, chose to "pass over" with David into exile and uncertainty, so too are believers called to follow Jesus, even when it means embracing hardship, rejection, or the "cross" ([Matthew 10:38](/matthew/10-38 "Matthew 10:38 - Take Up Your Cross")). Christ Himself experienced profound betrayal from those closest to Him, notably Judas ([John 13:21](/john/13-21 "John 13:21 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal")), yet He also gathered faithful followers, many of whom were considered "outsiders" by the religious establishment, like the Samaritan woman ([John 4:39-42](/john/4-39 "John 4:39-42 - Many Samaritans Believe")) or the Gentile centurion ([Matthew 8:10](/matthew/8-10 "Matthew 8:10 - Jesus Commends the Centurion's Faith")). Ittai's commitment, bringing "all his men, and all the little ones that [were] with him," illustrates the totality of discipleship to Christ, where our entire lives—our families, possessions, aspirations, and vulnerabilities—are brought under His lordship, willing to "pass over" into whatever path He leads ([Luke 14:26-27](/luke/14-26 "Luke 14:26-27 - The Cost of Discipleship")). Ultimately, Ittai's faithfulness to an earthly king foreshadows the supreme devotion due to Jesus Christ, who, unlike David, will never be truly defeated or abandon His loyal subjects ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God Will Never Leave You")).

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.