2 Samuel 17:28

KJV

Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched [corn], and beans, and lentiles, and parched [pulse],

KJV (with Strong's)

Brought {H5066} beds {H4904}, and basons {H5592}, and earthen {H3335} vessels {H3627}, and wheat {H2406}, and barley {H8184}, and flour {H7058}, and parched {H7039} corn, and beans {H6321}, and lentiles {H5742}, and parched {H7039} pulse,

Complete Jewish Bible

brought beds, basins, clay pots, wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, roasted millet,

Berean Standard Bible

They brought beds, basins, and earthen vessels, as well as wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils,

American Standard Version

brought beds, and basins, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and meal, and parched grain, and beans, and lentils, and parched pulse,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Samuel 17:28 provides a meticulous inventory of the essential provisions brought to King David and his weary entourage by three loyal men—Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai—as they sought refuge in Mahanaim during Absalom's rebellion. This detailed list, encompassing everything from beds and basins to a variety of grains and legumes, vividly illustrates the comprehensive and compassionate care extended to David's exhausted followers, underscoring the critical interplay of human kindness and divine providence in sustaining God's anointed during a period of profound crisis and vulnerability.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at a pivotal moment in the unfolding drama of Absalom's rebellion against his father, King David. Having been forced to flee Jerusalem to avoid bloodshed and a direct confrontation within the city, David and his loyalists have crossed the Jordan River and found temporary refuge in Mahanaim. The immediate preceding verses ([2 Samuel 17:24-27](/2_samuel/17-24-27 "2 Samuel 17:24-27 - David's Arrival in Mahanaim and Supporters Identified")) set the scene, describing David's arrival and introducing the three compassionate individuals—Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai—who are about to demonstrate extraordinary loyalty. This act of generous provision stands in stark contrast to the betrayal and political machinations that characterized Absalom's coup in Jerusalem, particularly the treacherous counsel of Ahithophel earlier in the chapter ([2 Samuel 17:1-4](/2_samuel/17-1-4 "2 Samuel 17:1-4 - Ahithophel's Counsel to Absalom")). The exhaustive enumeration of supplies in verse 28 powerfully emphasizes the dire need of David's company and the profound commitment of his supporters, laying the groundwork for the climactic battle that will soon ensue in the plains of Ephraim ([2 Samuel 18](/2_samuel/18 "2 Samuel 18 - David's Victory and Absalom's Death")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's flight to Mahanaim was not an act of surrender but a strategic move to regroup and avoid a civil war within Jerusalem. Mahanaim, located east of the Jordan River in Gilead, held historical significance, having served as Ish-Bosheth's capital during the initial civil war against David ([2 Samuel 2:8-9](/2_samuel/2-8-9 "2 Samuel 2:8-9 - Ish-Bosheth's Reign in Mahanaim")). For David, it offered a secure, albeit temporary, haven. In the ancient Near East, hospitality was a deeply ingrained cultural and moral obligation, especially towards travelers, refugees, and those in distress. Providing for a large, displaced group, particularly a king and his retinue, would have been an immense undertaking, demanding substantial resources, logistical planning, and unwavering commitment. The items listed—beds, basins, earthen vessels, and various food staples—reflect the basic necessities for a large encampment, indicating that David's followers were not merely hungry but also exhausted, lacking fundamental comforts and domestic provisions. This act of provision highlights the cultural expectation of care for the vulnerable, even for a king in exile, demonstrating a profound sense of duty and compassion.

* **Key Themes:** The detailed enumeration of provisions in [2 Samuel 17:28](/2_samuel/17-28 "2 Samuel 17:28 - Provisions for David to Mahanaim") powerfully illustrates several interconnected themes. First, it underscores **Loyalty and Compassion** as exemplified by David's supporters. Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai embody unwavering faithfulness to their king, risking their own safety and resources to meet his immediate and comprehensive needs during a time of national upheaval and personal vulnerability. Second, it highlights **Divine Providence through Human Hands**. While God's direct intervention is not explicitly stated, the timely and comprehensive provision of supplies can be understood as God's providential care for His anointed king and His people, often working through the generosity and kindness of faithful individuals. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem dire, as seen in passages like [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply Your Every Need"). Third, the list emphasizes the **Meeting of Basic Needs** for survival and comfort. The practical items—from sleeping arrangements to various food types—reveal a comprehensive understanding of what a large, displaced group would require, demonstrating a profound empathy and practical response to their immediate physical necessities. This theme resonates with the broader biblical call to care for the vulnerable and the stranger, as seen in [Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18-19 "Deuteronomy 10:18-19 - God Loves the Sojourner") and the teachings of Jesus in [Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "Matthew 25:35-40 - Caring for the Least of These").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Brought (Hebrew, _nâgash'_):** This verb signifies "to approach," "to draw near," or "to bring." In this context, it highlights the active and intentional effort of Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai to come close to David and his company, not merely sending supplies but personally delivering them. This implies a direct, personal engagement in meeting the needs of the king and his weary followers, emphasizing their commitment and proximity in a time of crisis.
* **Beds (Hebrew, _mishkâb'_):** This term refers to a bed, couch, or sleeping place. Its inclusion signifies that the provisions went beyond mere sustenance, addressing the fundamental need for rest and comfort for David's exhausted company. These were likely simple sleeping mats or bedding, essential for providing some measure of relief and recovery after a arduous flight and encampment.
* **Earthen (Hebrew, _yâtsar'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to mould into a form," especially as a potter, this word describes the material of the vessels. "Earthen vessels" (combined with _kᵉlîy_ for vessels) refers to common pottery, highlighting the practical, everyday nature of these containers used for cooking, storing, or carrying water. Their presence underscores the basic domestic and logistical needs of a large, displaced group, providing essential tools for daily living in an encampment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels":** This opening clause immediately establishes the comprehensive nature of the provisions, extending beyond mere sustenance to include items crucial for comfort, hygiene, and practical living. "Beds" (Hebrew, _mishkâb_) likely refers to sleeping mats or bedding, essential for rest and recovery after a long and arduous flight. "Basons" (Hebrew, _çaph_) were probably large bowls or containers used for washing, serving food, or perhaps even for ritual purposes, indicating attention to cleanliness and basic domestic needs. "Earthen vessels" (Hebrew, _kᵉlîy yāṣar_) were common pottery items, versatile for cooking, storing water, or carrying various provisions, highlighting the fundamental household necessities for a large, displaced group.
* **"and wheat, and barley, and flour":** These items represent the foundational grain staples of the ancient Israelite diet, providing essential carbohydrates and energy. Wheat and barley were primary crops, forming the caloric backbone of meals. The inclusion of "flour" (Hebrew, _qemach_) indicates that some of the grain was already processed, ready for immediate baking or cooking, suggesting thoughtful preparation for the immediate consumption needs of the weary company. This segment of the list covers the core caloric and energy requirements.
* **"and parched [corn], and beans, and lentiles, and parched [pulse]":** This final segment details additional, easily consumable food items crucial for a group on the move. "Parched [corn]" (Hebrew, _qâlîy_, referring to roasted grain, likely wheat or barley) and "parched [pulse]" (also _qâlîy_, referring to roasted legumes like beans and lentils) were highly practical. Roasting made these items lightweight, durable, and ready-to-eat without extensive cooking, ideal for travelers or those in a temporary camp. Beans (Hebrew, _pôwl_) and lentils (Hebrew, _ʻâdâsh_) were rich in protein and fiber, providing sustained energy and vital nutrients. The inclusion of these specific items demonstrates a thorough understanding of the nutritional and logistical requirements for a large group of exhausted people without access to traditional cooking facilities, ensuring a balanced and readily available food supply.

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device employed in 2 Samuel 17:28 is **Catalogue** or **Enumeration**. The verse presents a detailed, almost exhaustive list of provisions, meticulously itemizing each type of supply brought to David. This comprehensive listing is not merely descriptive; it serves to emphasize the sheer volume, variety, and thoughtfulness of the provisions, underscoring the profound need of David's weary company and the extraordinary generosity and foresight of his loyal supporters. The **Imagery** evoked by this extensive list is one of abundant provision in a time of scarcity and distress, painting a vivid picture of a large, exhausted group being cared for comprehensively. The tangible nature of the items, from sleeping mats to various food types, creates a palpable sense of the practical realities of their situation. Furthermore, the catalogue implicitly conveys **Symbolism** of loyalty, compassion, and divine care; the human act of providing these necessities becomes a tangible representation of God's providence for His anointed king, even in the midst of rebellion and exile, demonstrating that God often works through the faithful actions of His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound act of provision described in 2 Samuel 17:28 resonates deeply with the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness and the vital importance of practical love within the community of faith. It powerfully illustrates how God often orchestrates His care through the kindness and generosity of His people to meet the tangible needs of others, particularly those in distress and vulnerability. This passage serves as a poignant reminder that true loyalty and compassion are not merely abstract sentiments but are expressed through concrete, tangible acts of service and provision. The detailed list of basic necessities underscores the biblical emphasis on caring for the vulnerable, the displaced, and the needy, ensuring that fundamental physical and emotional needs are met, thereby reflecting God's own character as a benevolent provider.

* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "God Will Supply Your Every Need")
* [Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats")
* [Hebrews 13:16](/hebrews/13-16 "Do Not Neglect to Do Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous account of provisions in 2 Samuel 17:28 offers a powerful and enduring lesson for believers today, transcending its historical context to speak to the timeless principles of Christian living. It highlights the profound impact of practical, compassionate service, especially during times of crisis and vulnerability. In a world often marked by self-interest, indifference, and a focus on grand gestures, the actions of Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai stand as a compelling testament to radical generosity and unwavering loyalty, expressed through the mundane yet vital acts of providing beds, food, and vessels. Their willingness to risk their own resources and safety to meet the physical needs of David and his followers reminds us that faith is often expressed most authentically through tangible acts of love, mirroring the very heart of God. This passage challenges us to look beyond spiritual platitudes and to actively identify and address the practical needs of those around us—whether it be providing a meal, offering shelter, lending a listening ear, or simply sharing our resources. It encourages us to be instruments of God's provision, trusting that He often works through human kindness to sustain, comfort, and restore His people. Furthermore, David's dependence on others, even as king, underscores the humility inherent in leadership and the vital role of community in navigating life's most difficult seasons, reminding us that no one is truly self-sufficient.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What practical needs in my community, church, or among my acquaintances might God be calling me to address with tangible acts of service?**
* **How does this passage challenge my understanding of "loyalty" and "compassion," moving them from abstract concepts to concrete actions?**
* **In what ways can I be an instrument of God's provision for others, even if it requires personal sacrifice or stepping outside my comfort zone?**
* **How does David's vulnerability and reliance on others in this passage speak to the importance of humility and the necessity of community, even in positions of leadership or strength?**

### FAQ
**Why is such a detailed list of provisions included in the Bible?**

Answer: The detailed list in [2 Samuel 17:28](/2_samuel/17-28 "2 Samuel 17:28 - Provisions for David in Mahanaim") serves several important narrative and theological purposes. First, it vividly emphasizes the dire circumstances of King David and his followers, highlighting their complete exhaustion, displacement, and lack of basic necessities after their hasty flight from Jerusalem. The specificity underscores their profound vulnerability. Second, it magnifies the immense generosity and comprehensive care provided by Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai, demonstrating their deep loyalty and compassion. The meticulous enumeration shows that their provision was not merely symbolic but practical, thorough, and thoughtfully designed to meet every conceivable need, from rest (beds) to sustenance (various foods). Third, and perhaps most profoundly, it subtly points to divine providence, illustrating how God works through human agents to sustain His anointed king and His people, even in the midst of rebellion, betrayal, and crisis. The detail makes the narrative more vivid, the act of kindness more impactful, and the overarching theme of God's faithfulness more tangible.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The provision for King David in 2 Samuel 17:28, while a powerful testament to human loyalty and divine care in the Old Testament, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. David, a king in exile, dependent on the kindness of others for basic sustenance and comfort, foreshadows Christ, the true King, who, in His earthly ministry, "had nowhere to lay his head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - Jesus Has No Home to Lay His Head")). Just as David's loyal followers provided for him out of love and devotion, so too does Christ provide for His people, not merely with temporary physical provisions, but with eternal life and spiritual nourishment that satisfies the deepest longings of the soul. He is the ultimate "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")), the one who satisfies every spiritual hunger and thirst. Furthermore, the theme of loyal provision in a time of suffering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who, though innocent and divine, was abandoned and suffered for humanity's sake, yet was ultimately sustained by the Father's will to accomplish redemption. His journey to the cross, a path of profound vulnerability and suffering, was met with divine strength and purpose, leading to the ultimate provision of salvation for all who believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love for Us")). In Christ, we see not just a king provided for, but a King who selflessly provides for us, offering Himself as the ultimate sustenance, comfort, and living water for our weary souls, fulfilling the deepest needs of humanity that no amount of beds, basins, or earthly food could ever truly satisfy ([John 4:14](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Living Water for Eternal 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

1 Samuel 25:18

¶ Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched [corn], and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid [them] on asses.

Obadiah 1:3

The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose habitation [is] high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground?

2 Samuel 16:1

¶ And when David was a little past the top [of the hill], behold, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon them two hundred [loaves] of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.

2 Samuel 16:2

And the king said unto Ziba, What meanest thou by these? And Ziba said, The asses [be] for the king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine, that such as be faint in the wilderness may drink.

Isaiah 32:8

But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand.