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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
In 2 Samuel 19:34, the venerable Barzillai the Gileadite gracefully declines King David's generous invitation to relocate to Jerusalem and receive royal provision. His rhetorical question, "How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?", profoundly expresses his advanced age and the finite nature of his remaining days, revealing a heart content with his established life and prioritizing a peaceful conclusion to his life's journey over the allure of worldly honor and the demanding intricacies of courtly existence.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed at a crucial juncture in David's reign, immediately following the successful quelling of Absalom's rebellion. As David makes his triumphant return to Jerusalem, the narrative shifts its focus to the restoration and reconciliation of the kingdom. Barzillai's appearance is a direct consequence of his earlier, unwavering loyalty and crucial provision for David and his weary entourage during their desperate flight (a detailed account found in 2 Samuel 17:27-29). David's subsequent invitation to Barzillai is a deeply personal act of profound gratitude and a public affirmation of his steadfast faithfulness. Barzillai's humble and wise refusal then sets the stage for the transfer of this honor to his son, Chimham, as recorded in 2 Samuel 19:38-40.
Historical & Cultural Context
The historical backdrop is post-civil war Israel, with King David in the process of re-establishing his unified authority from his capital, Jerusalem. In this era, loyalty to the monarch was paramount, and kings frequently bestowed positions of honor, land, or ongoing provision upon faithful supporters. David's invitation to Barzillai, a man of considerable wealth and influence from Gilead (located east of the Jordan River), to join him in the capital was a highly significant gesture, offering not merely sustenance but full integration into the royal court—a clear and public mark of exceptional favor. Barzillai, at 80 years old (2 Samuel 19:32), was considered a venerable elder, and his decision reflects a cultural understanding of life's stages, where the elderly often sought peace, familiarity, and a dignified end to their days rather than new challenges or public prominence.
Key Themes
Barzillai's poignant response illuminates several profound themes. Firstly, it underscores the wisdom of old age, demonstrating a realistic self-assessment and a clear understanding of what truly holds value in one's final years, prioritizing peace and familiar surroundings over the allure of prestige. Secondly, it exemplifies humility and selflessness, as Barzillai's earlier aid to David was rendered without any expectation of recompense, and his subsequent refusal is born not of disrespect but genuine contentment and a lack of personal ambition. Thirdly, the verse powerfully addresses the universal reality of the brevity of life and human mortality. Barzillai's rhetorical question, "How long have I to live?", serves as a sober acknowledgment of his limited time, echoing sentiments found in other biblical texts such as Psalm 90:10 and the overarching reflections on the fleeting nature of human existence in the book of Ecclesiastes.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the root meaning "to live" or "to be alive," this word refers to the duration and vitality of Barzillai's earthly existence. In this context, it emphasizes the diminishing quantity and quality of his remaining days, suggesting that the vigor required for a demanding new life in Jerusalem is no longer within him.
Literally meaning "day" or "days," this word, used here in the plural ("how many days"), forms a rhetorical question that is not seeking a numerical answer but rather emphasizing the fewness and limited nature of Barzillai's remaining time. It conveys a profound sense of the brevity of life and the unsuitability of embarking on a demanding new chapter at such an advanced age.
This verb literally means "to ascend," reflecting Jerusalem's elevated geographical position. Metaphorically, "going up" to the capital implies entering into a new sphere of influence, responsibility, and social engagement. Barzillai's refusal to "go up" signifies his disinclination to ascend to a new level of public life, preferring instead to descend peacefully into his final years in his familiar home.
Verse Breakdown
"And Barzillai said unto the king"
This opening establishes the direct and respectful dialogue between Barzillai and King David, highlighting the personal nature of the interaction. Barzillai's response is not a curt dismissal but a thoughtful, humble, and well-reasoned explanation for his decision.
"How long have I to live"
This is the poignant core of Barzillai's argument. It is a rhetorical question that powerfully underscores his advanced age (80 years old, as noted in 2 Samuel 19:32) and the diminishing number of days remaining in his life. It speaks to a deep awareness of mortality and the wisdom to understand one's limitations and priorities in the twilight years.
"that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?"
This clause clarifies the purpose of Barzillai's existential question. He understands that accompanying the king to Jerusalem would mean entering a new, demanding phase of life, likely involving the pleasures, political intricacies, and responsibilities of the royal court. He implicitly acknowledges that such a life would be unsuitable for an old man, who would prefer the quiet comfort of his home and the familiar routines of his remaining days over the unfamiliar and potentially overwhelming environment of the capital.
Literary Devices
The verse masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is the Rhetorical Question, "How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?" This question is not posed to elicit an answer from David but to emphatically underscore Barzillai's own deep conviction about his limited time and the inherent impracticality of the king's generous offer. It serves to highlight his wisdom and realistic self-assessment. There is also a clear element of Contrast drawn between the vibrant, demanding life of the royal court in Jerusalem and the quiet, reflective existence Barzillai desires in his old age. Furthermore, Barzillai's humble refusal, despite the immense honor being extended, subtly highlights the Irony that true wisdom often involves declining what the world typically considers a great prize. His words also carry a universal Symbolism of human mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly life, resonating deeply with broader biblical themes of "vanity" and the brevity of human existence.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Barzillai's response stands as a profound theological statement on the wisdom of embracing one's particular season of life and prioritizing what truly matters in the face of mortality. His contentment and realistic assessment of his remaining days stand in stark contrast to the common human pursuit of endless ambition and worldly gain. Theologically, this verse reminds us that life's greatest rewards are not always found in positions of power or prestige, but often in quiet contentment, selfless service, and a clear-eyed understanding of our finite existence before God. It underscores the biblical emphasis on wisdom, the responsible stewardship of time, and the crucial recognition that all earthly honors are ultimately temporary and fleeting.
Reflection and Application
Barzillai's wise and humble refusal offers timeless and invaluable lessons for believers today. His example challenges us to cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness, understanding our own limitations, strengths, and the particular season of life in which God has sovereignly placed us. Not every opportunity, however prestigious, seemingly beneficial, or well-intentioned, is necessarily aligned with God's perfect will for our lives or suitable for our current stage. Barzillai teaches us to prioritize contentment, inner peace, and the familiar comforts of home and community over the seductive allure of worldly advancement or the potentially overwhelming demands of a new environment. His life of selfless service to David, rendered without expectation of reward, further calls us to serve others out of pure love, loyalty, and a spirit of generosity, finding our satisfaction in the act of giving rather than in the pursuit of personal gain or public recognition. Ultimately, Barzillai's sober reflection on his own mortality prompts us to consider our own finite days and to live with intentionality, investing our time and energy in what truly lasts and aligning our priorities with eternal values rather than fleeting earthly honors.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Barzillai decline such a prestigious offer from King David?
Barzillai declined the offer primarily due to his advanced age, specifically stated as 80 years old in 2 Samuel 19:32. He wisely understood that the rigors, demands, and even the pleasures of court life in Jerusalem would no longer be suitable for him. His rhetorical question, "How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?", indicates a profound self-awareness and a deep desire to spend his remaining days in peace and familiar surroundings, rather than embarking on a new, potentially demanding chapter of life. He was content with his current circumstances and had no desire for further worldly honor or the burdens that might accompany it.
What was David's reaction to Barzillai's refusal?
King David respected Barzillai's decision and acknowledged his wisdom. Rather than insisting, David demonstrated his continued gratitude and honor by offering the same privilege and provision to Barzillai's son, Chimham. 2 Samuel 19:38 records David's response: "And the king answered, Chimham shall go over with me, and I will do to him what seemeth good unto thee: and whatsoever thou shalt require of me, that will I do for thee." This shows David's unwavering desire to honor Barzillai's family and his empathetic understanding of Barzillai's limitations.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Barzillai's profound awareness of the brevity of his earthly life and his wise decision to prioritize peace and contentment over the allure of worldly honor finds its ultimate fulfillment and reorientation in the person and teachings of Jesus Christ. While Barzillai wisely assessed his temporal days, Christ calls His followers to consider not just the fewness of earthly days but the boundlessness of eternity. Jesus taught His disciples not to lay up treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, but to lay up for themselves treasures in heaven, where true and lasting riches reside. Barzillai's contentment with his simple life, rather than the allure of Jerusalem's court, foreshadows the Christian's call to find ultimate satisfaction not in earthly kingdoms or fleeting glory, but in the kingdom of God, which is within and among us. The wisdom Barzillai displayed in recognizing his limitations and the passing nature of life points to the greater wisdom found in Christ, who is our very life (Colossians 3:4) and the source of true, abiding contentment (Philippians 4:11-13). Barzillai's selfless service to David, without expectation of reward, mirrors the unparalleled, self-giving love of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Ultimately, Barzillai's acceptance of his mortality directs our gaze to the One who conquered death and offers eternal life to all who believe, ensuring that our "how long have I to live" is answered with the glorious promise of life everlasting in Him (John 3:16).