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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Samuel 19:31–39. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
David had already graced the triumphs of his restoration with the generous remission of the injuries that had been done to him; we have him here gracing them with a no less generous reward of the kindnesses that had been shown to him. Barzillai, the Gileadite, who had a noble seat at Rogelim, not far from Mahanaim, was the man who, of all the nobility and gentry of that country, had been most kind to David in his distress. If Absalom had prevailed, it is likely he would have suffered for his loyalty; but now he and his shall be no losers by it. Here is,
I.Barzillai's great respect to David, not only as a good man, but as his righteous sovereign:
He provided him with much sustenance, for himself and his family, while he lay at Mahanaim, Sa2 19:32. God had given him a large estate, for he was a very great man, and, it seems, he had a large heart to do good with it: what else but that is a large estate good for? To reduced greatness generosity obliges us, and to oppressed goodness piety obliges us, to be in a particular manner kind, to the utmost of our power. Barzillai, to show that he was not weary of David, though he was so great a charge to him, attended him to Jordan, and went over with him, Sa2 19:31. Let subjects learn hence to render tribute to whom tribute is due and honour to whom honour, Rom 13:7.
II.The kind invitation David gave to him to court (Sa2 19:33): Come thou over with me. He invited him,
1.That he might have the pleasure of his company and the benefit of his counsel; for we may suppose that he was very wise and good, as well as very rich, otherwise he would not have been called here a very great man; for it is what a man is, more than what he has, that renders him truly great.
2.That he might have an opportunity of returning his kindness: "I will feed thee with me; thou shalt fare as sumptuously as I fare, and this at Jerusalem, the royal and holy city." David did not take Barzillai's kindness to him as a debt (he was not one of those arbitrary princes who think that whatever their subjects have is theirs when they please), but accepted it and rewarded it as a favour. We must always study to be grateful to our friends, especially to those who have helped us in distress.
III.Barzillai's reply to this invitation, wherein,
1.He admires the king's generosity in making him this offer, lessening his service, and magnifying the king's return for it: Why should the king recompense it with such a reward? Sa2 19:36. Will the master thank that servant who only does what was his duty to do? He though he had done himself honour enough in doing the king any service. Thus, when the saints shall be called to inherit the kingdom in consideration of what they have done for Christ in this world, they will be amazed at the disproportion between the service and the recompence. Mat 25:37, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee?
2.He declines accepting the invitation. He begs his majesty's pardon for refusing so generous an offer: he should think himself very happy in being near the king, but,
(1.)He is old, and unfit to remove at all, especially to court. He is old, and unfit for the business of the court: "Why should I go up with the king to Jerusalem? I can do him no service there, in the council, the camp, the treasury, or the courts of justice; for how long have I to live? Sa2 19:34. Shall I think of going into business, now that I am going out of this world?" He is old and unfit for the diversions of the court, which will be ill-bestowed, and even thrown away, upon one that can relish them so little, Sa2 19:35. As it was in Moses's time, so it was in barzillai's and it is not worse now, that, if men be so strong that they come to fourscore years, their strength then is labour and sorrow, Psa 90:10. These were then, and are still, years of which men say they have no pleasure in them, Ecc 12:1. Dainties are insipid when desire fails, and songs to the aged ear are little better than those sung to a heavy heart, very disagreeable: how should they be otherwise when the daughters of music are brought low? Let those that are old learn of Barzillai to be dead to the delights of sense; let grace second nature, and make a virtue of the necessity. Nay, Barzillai, being old, thinks he shall be a burden to the king, rather than any credit to him; and a good man would not go any where to be burdensome, or, if he must be so, will rather be so to his own house than to another's.
(2.)He is dying, and must begin to think of his long journey, his removal out of the world, Sa2 19:37. It is good for us all, but it especially becomes old people to think and speak much of dying. "Talk of going to court!" says Barzillai; "Let me go home and die in my own city, the place of my father's sepulchre; let me die by the grave of my father, that my bones may be quietly carried to the place of their rest. The grave is ready for me, let me go and get ready for it, go and die in my nest."
3.He desires the king to be kind to his son Chimham: Let him go over with my lord the king, and have preferment at court. What favour is done to him Barzillai will take as done to himself. Those that are old must not grudge young people those delights which they themselves are past the enjoyment of, nor confine them to their retirements. Barzillai will go back himself, but he will not make Chimham go back with him; though he could ill spare Chimham, yet, thinking it would gratify and advance him, he is willing to do it.
IV.David's farewell to Barzillai.
1.He sends him back into his country with a kiss and a blessing (Sa2 19:39), signifying that in gratitude for his kindnesses he would love him and pray for him, and with a promise that whatever request he should at any time make to him he would be ready to oblige him (Sa2 19:38): Whatsoever thou shalt think of, when thou comest home, to ask of me, that will I do for thee. What is the chief excellency of power but this, that it gives men a capacity of doing the more good?
2.He takes Chimham forward with him, and leaves it to Barzillai to choose him his preferment. I will do to him what shall seem good to thee, Sa2 19:38. And, it should seem, Barzillai, who had experienced the innocency and safety of retirement, begged a country seat for him near Jerusalem, but not in it; for, long after, we read of a place near Beth-lehem, David's city, which is called the habitation of Chimham, allotted to him, probably, not out of the crown-lands or the forfeited estates, but out of David's paternal estate.
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Summary
Second Samuel 19:32 introduces Barzillai, a distinguished Gileadite, emphasizing his advanced age of eighty years and his crucial role in providing essential provisions for King David and his loyalists while they sought refuge in Mahanaim during Absalom's rebellion. The verse powerfully portrays Barzillai as a man of immense stature and influence, whose unwavering loyalty and generous support were indispensable to David's survival and eventual restoration to his throne.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed at a pivotal moment in David's narrative, as he prepares to cross the Jordan River to return to Jerusalem following the decisive defeat of Absalom's rebellion, detailed in 2 Samuel 18. Barzillai's appearance here is not incidental but a direct recognition of his earlier, selfless actions. The preceding chapters recount David's desperate flight from Jerusalem and his establishment of a temporary base in Mahanaim. 2 Samuel 17:24-29 specifically highlights how Barzillai, along with other loyalists, provided critical sustenance for David and his weary company. Verse 32 serves as a succinct commendation of Barzillai's character and past deeds, setting the stage for David's personal expression of gratitude and his offer of royal favor in the subsequent verses, 2 Samuel 19:33-39.
Historical & Cultural Context
The period of David's reign was often tumultuous, marked by both external conflicts and internal strife, with Absalom's rebellion representing a profound crisis that threatened the very fabric of the kingdom. In ancient Near Eastern societies, loyalty to the reigning monarch was a complex and often precarious affair, especially during civil unrest. Providing "sustenance"—which encompassed food, shelter, and other vital supplies—to a fleeing king and his retinue was far more than a charitable act; it was a significant political and military declaration, fraught with immense personal risk. Mahanaim, located in Gilead, east of the Jordan, offered a strategic refuge for David, providing a measure of safety from Absalom's forces. Barzillai, described as a "great man" from this region, would have possessed considerable land, wealth, and tribal influence, making his support not only invaluable but also a powerful statement of allegiance that could sway others. His advanced age of eighty years would have further amplified his standing, commanding respect and signifying a lifetime of accumulated wisdom and social authority within his community.
Key Themes
This verse encapsulates several profound and enduring themes woven throughout the broader narrative of 2 Samuel. Primarily, it underscores the theme of Loyalty and Faithfulness, exemplified by Barzillai's unwavering support for David during his most vulnerable period. This stands in stark contrast to the widespread defection and treachery that characterized Absalom's rebellion, highlighting the biblical emphasis on steadfast devotion even in the face of adversity. Secondly, the theme of Generosity and Provision is central, as Barzillai utilized his considerable resources to meet David's dire needs. This act powerfully illustrates the importance of stewarding one's blessings to serve others, especially those in distress, echoing the scriptural principles of hospitality and care for the vulnerable found in passages like Deuteronomy 15:7-8. Lastly, the verse touches upon the Esteem and Influence of Age and Character. Barzillai's description as "a very great man" and his venerable age signify not merely material wealth but also profound moral authority and a respected position within Israelite society, demonstrating that true greatness is often measured by one's character and selfless contributions to the well-being of others.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From בַּרְזֶל, meaning "iron-hearted." This etymology is remarkably fitting for the character of Barzillai, whose unwavering loyalty and steadfast support for King David during a perilous time indeed demonstrated an "iron heart" of courage and resolve. His name itself foreshadows the unyielding nature of his commitment.
From כּוּל, meaning "to keep in; hence, to measure; figuratively, to maintain (in various senses); (be able to, can) abide, bear, comprehend, contain, feed, forbearing, guide, hold(-ing in), nourish(-er), be present, make provision, receive, sustain, provide sustenance (victuals)." This word goes beyond mere food, encompassing all necessary provisions for life and well-being. Barzillai's actions involved a comprehensive provision of essential supplies, not just a simple meal, for David and his entire company, signifying a profound act of care and maintenance during their desperate flight.
From גָּדַל, meaning "great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent; [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very." When applied to Barzillai, "great" signifies not only his substantial wealth and high social standing but also his significant influence and respected position within his community. His greatness was a measure of his capacity to provide, his moral authority, and his recognized prominence among the people of Gilead.
Verse Breakdown
"Now Barzillai was a very aged man, [even] fourscore years old:"
This opening clause immediately establishes Barzillai's venerable status and advanced age. Being eighty years old in ancient Israel signified a life rich in experience, wisdom, and often, a well-established reputation. This detail positions Barzillai as a patriarch, a figure of respect and authority, making his subsequent actions all the more impactful and suggesting that his decisions were rooted in deep conviction rather than fleeting opportunism.
"and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim;"
This clause highlights Barzillai's pivotal act of loyalty and extraordinary generosity. "Provided the king of sustenance" refers to the extensive material support—food, shelter, and other vital supplies—he gave to David and his company when they were in dire straits, having fled Absalom's rebellion and taken refuge in Mahanaim. This was not a minor gesture but a significant investment of personal resources, demonstrating profound commitment during David's most vulnerable period. The timing, "while he lay at Mahanaim," underscores that this aid was given when David was an exiled, desperate king, not when he was powerful and secure.
"for he [was] a very great man."
This concluding clause offers the underlying reason or explanation for Barzillai's capacity to provide such extensive aid. His "greatness" denotes not only considerable wealth but also significant social standing, influence, and respect within his region of Gilead. This was not merely a personal act of kindness but a substantial commitment from a powerful individual whose support would have carried immense weight and provided a vital lifeline to David's struggling forces. His greatness enabled his generosity and made his loyalty all the more meaningful.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to effectively convey Barzillai's character and significance within the narrative. Characterization is immediately evident, as the verse succinctly paints a portrait of Barzillai through direct description, labeling him "a very aged man, [even] fourscore years old" and "a very great man." These epithets instantly establish his venerable status, wisdom, and influential standing. The mention of his past action—providing sustenance—serves as a powerful instance of demonstrated character, showing rather than merely telling his profound loyalty and generosity. Furthermore, the verse utilizes Conciseness, packing a wealth of information about Barzillai's identity and his pivotal contribution to David's survival into a single, impactful statement. The concluding phrase, "for he [was] a very great man," functions as a form of Justification or Explanation, providing the underlying reason for his ability to offer such substantial aid, thereby reinforcing his importance in the unfolding narrative.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Barzillai's actions in 2 Samuel 19:32 resonate with profound theological themes, particularly concerning divine providence, human faithfulness, and the nature of true leadership. His selfless provision for David, a king in exile and distress, exemplifies the biblical call to hospitality and generosity, especially towards those in need or positions of vulnerability. It demonstrates how God often works through the willing hearts and resources of His people to sustain His chosen instruments, even amidst chaos and rebellion. Barzillai's unwavering loyalty, despite the risks involved in supporting a fleeing king, serves as a powerful testament to covenant faithfulness, mirroring the steadfastness God desires from His people. His "greatness" is not merely material but moral, reflecting a stewardship of resources for the good of God's anointed, underscoring that true influence is best exercised in service and compassion.
Reflection and Application
Barzillai's story in 2 Samuel 19:32 offers a timeless blueprint for how believers can embody Christ-like character in their daily lives. His willingness to provide critical "sustenance" to a king in distress, without seeking personal gain, challenges us to consider how we use our own resources—be it time, talent, or treasure—to support others, especially those facing adversity or carrying heavy burdens. In a world often driven by self-interest, Barzillai's selfless loyalty stands as a beacon, reminding us of the profound impact of steadfast commitment to friends, family, and leaders, particularly when they are most vulnerable. Furthermore, his advanced age and respected status highlight the value of wisdom, experience, and the significant contributions that elders can make to society and the church. We are called to honor and learn from those who have walked a long path of faithfulness, just as David sought to honor Barzillai. Ultimately, Barzillai's life encourages us to live with open hands and generous hearts, trusting that our acts of provision and loyalty are not only seen by man but are also honored by God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was Barzillai and why is he important in the narrative of King David?
Barzillai was a wealthy and influential Gileadite from Rogelim, located east of the Jordan River. He is important because he demonstrated extraordinary loyalty and generosity to King David during one of the most perilous periods of his reign: Absalom's rebellion. When David was forced to flee Jerusalem and took refuge in Mahanaim, Barzillai, along with others, provided crucial and extensive provisions—including food, bedding, and other necessities—for David and his weary company, as detailed in 2 Samuel 17:27-29. His actions were vital for David's survival and underscore his unwavering support for the king, even when many others had turned against him. This verse, 2 Samuel 19:32, highlights his advanced age and his "greatness," which refers to his significant social standing and wealth, making his support even more impactful.
What does "fourscore years old" mean in the context of this verse?
"Fourscore years old" is an archaic English expression meaning eighty years old. In biblical times, reaching such an advanced age was often considered a sign of God's blessing and typically indicated a person of considerable experience, wisdom, and established character. Barzillai's age emphasizes his venerable status and suggests that his actions were not impulsive but stemmed from a lifetime of principled living and deep-seated loyalty. It also highlights the physical toll of travel and the king's subsequent offer for him to come to Jerusalem, which Barzillai declines due to his advanced age in 2 Samuel 19:34-35.
How did Barzillai "provide sustenance" to King David, and what was the significance of this act?
Barzillai provided comprehensive "sustenance" for David and his followers, which included not just food and water, but also essential household items like beds, basins, and earthen vessels, along with various grains, legumes, honey, butter, sheep, and cheese, as described in 2 Samuel 17:27-29. The significance of this act was immense. David's company was exhausted, hungry, and vulnerable, having fled Jerusalem in haste. Barzillai's provision was a critical lifeline, demonstrating profound compassion, strategic support, and unwavering loyalty during a time of national crisis. It was a selfless act of hospitality and generosity that ensured the survival and well-being of the legitimate king and his loyalists, playing a crucial role in the eventual restoration of David's kingdom.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Barzillai's selfless provision for King David, a sovereign in distress, serves as a poignant foreshadowing of the ultimate provision offered by Jesus Christ, our eternal King. Just as Barzillai, a "very great man," used his wealth and influence to sustain David when he was vulnerable and fleeing, so too does Christ, the Son of God, provide all-encompassing sustenance for humanity, which was lost and alienated from God. Barzillai's act of supplying physical necessities for a temporary king points to Christ's divine work of providing eternal spiritual nourishment—He is the Bread of Life and the Living Water, sustaining us not just for a journey, but for eternity. His loyalty to David, even unto personal risk, reflects the unparalleled faithfulness of Christ, who, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, ultimately laying down His life to redeem us (Philippians 2:5-8). In Barzillai, we see a human echo of the divine generosity and unfailing love that culminates in God's ultimate provision for us through the sacrificial work of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.