### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Barzillay**, represented by `{{H1271}}`, means **iron-hearted**. It appears **12 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is attributed to three distinct Israelites, most notably a wealthy and loyal supporter of King David during a time of crisis.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Barzillay** is most prominently associated with a **very great man** from Gilead [[2 Samuel 19:32]]. This Barzillai the Gileadite, at **fourscore** years old, provided **sustenance** for King **David** `{{H1732}}` and his people at **Mahanaim** when the king had **fled** from his son **Absalom** `{{H53}}` ([[2 Samuel 19:32]], [[1 Kings 2:7]]). In gratitude, David invited **Barzillai** to come to **Jerusalem**, but Barzillai humbly declined due to his advanced age [[2 Samuel 19:33-34]]. Before he **returned** to his home in **Rogelim**, the king **kissed** and **blessed** him [[2 Samuel 19:39]]. The name also belongs to **Barzillai** the Meholathite, whose son **Adriel** `{{H5741}}` had **five sons** with **Michal**, the daughter of **Saul** [[2 Samuel 21:8]]. Later, a family of priests **was called after their name** because their ancestor **took a wife** from the **daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite** ([[Ezra 2:61]], [[Nehemiah 7:63]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the narrative of **Barzillay**:
* `{{H1569}}` **Gilʻâdîy** (Gileadite): This identifies the most famous **Barzillai** as a descendant of Gilead, linking him to a specific region and lineage known for its loyalty [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (kindness): This virtue is central to the story. David, remembering Barzillai's loyalty, commanded his son Solomon to show **kindness** to Barzillai's **sons** [[1 Kings 2:7]].
* `{{H3557}}` **kûwl** (sustain, provide sustenance): This word describes Barzillai's crucial act of support for the king, as he "had provided the king of **sustenance**" during his exile [[2 Samuel 19:32]].
* `{{H2204}}` **zâqên** (to be old): This descriptor is key to Barzillai's character, as he is described as a **very aged man** whose wisdom and humility are evident in his interactions with the king [[2 Samuel 19:32]].
### Theological Significance
The accounts of **Barzillay** highlight several important themes:
* **Loyalty and Faithfulness:** **Barzillay** demonstrates unwavering loyalty to King **David** at a moment of great personal risk, providing for him when he fled from **Absalom**'s rebellion [[2 Samuel 17:27]].
* **Generational Blessing:** The kindness shown by **Barzillai** resulted in a blessing that extended beyond his own life. David made a point to ensure that Barzillai's **sons** would **eat** at the king's **table** `{{H7979}}`, a legacy of honor for their father's faithfulness [[1 Kings 2:7]].
* **Humility in Old Age:** Despite being a **very great man** offered a place of honor in **Jerusalem**, Barzillai declined the king's offer, citing his old age and desire to return to his own **place**. This reflects a humble spirit, free from the desire for personal glory [[2 Samuel 19:34-39]].
* **Enduring Legacy:** The honor associated with the name **Barzillai** was so significant that a priestly family later adopted it, preserving his reputation for generations ([[Ezra 2:61]], [[Nehemiah 7:63]]).
### Summary
In summary, **Barzillay** `{{H1271}}` signifies more than just a name; it embodies the virtues of steadfast loyalty, humble service, and enduring kindness. Through the accounts of the three Israelites who bore this name, particularly Barzillai the Gileadite, scripture provides a powerful example of faithfulness to God's anointed leader and illustrates how such acts of integrity create a lasting legacy that blesses future generations.
TRV