2 Samuel 19:39

And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.

And all the people {H5971} went over {H5674} Jordan {H3383}. And when the king {H4428} was come over {H5674}, the king {H4428} kissed {H5401} Barzillai {H1271}, and blessed {H1288} him; and he returned {H7725} unto his own place {H4725}.

So all the people crossed the Yarden; and the king crossed too. The king kissed Barzillai and blessed him; then he returned to his home.

So all the people crossed the Jordan, and then the king crossed over. The king kissed Barzillai and blessed him, and Barzillai returned home.

And all the people went over the Jordan, and the king went over: and the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.

Commentary

Context of 2 Samuel 19:39

This verse marks a poignant moment in King David's return to Jerusalem after the devastating rebellion led by his son, Absalom. Having been forced to flee across the Jordan River, David found refuge and crucial support from loyal subjects, among whom was Barzillai the Gileadite. Barzillai, a wealthy and aged man, had provided provisions and comfort to David and his followers during their exile (see 2 Samuel 17:27-29). As David was crossing back over the Jordan to reclaim his throne, he offered Barzillai a place of honor and provision in Jerusalem. However, Barzillai, due to his advanced age, humbly declined, suggesting his servant Chimham go in his stead (2 Samuel 19:31-38). Verse 39 describes the final farewell between David and Barzillai at the Jordan River, a significant boundary in the narrative of David's restoration.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Gratitude and Honor: David's act of kissing and blessing Barzillai demonstrates profound gratitude for his unwavering loyalty and support during a time of great distress. It highlights the importance of honoring those who stand by us in adversity.
  • Loyalty and Service: Barzillai exemplifies steadfast loyalty to his king, offering significant material and emotional support without seeking personal gain. His service was selfless and timely.
  • Wisdom and Humility: Barzillai's decision to return to his own place, recognizing his age and the limitations it imposed on living in the king's court, showcases remarkable wisdom and humility. He understood his season of life and chose what was best for himself.
  • Transition and Farewell: This verse marks a significant transition point โ€“ David is fully back on his throne, and a period of instability is concluding. It's also a tender farewell, emphasizing the personal bonds forged during hardship.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses two key actions by David: "kissed" and "blessed."

  • Kissed (Hebrew: ื ึธืฉึทืืง, nashaq): This was more than a casual greeting. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a kiss could signify deep affection, respect, reconciliation, or a solemn farewell. Here, it conveys David's profound personal esteem and a tender parting.
  • Blessed (Hebrew: ื‘ึธึผืจึทืšึฐ, barak): To "bless" someone in this context means to invoke divine favor, prosperity, and well-being upon them. It was a formal and heartfelt expression of good wishes, often carrying the weight of a prayer for God's presence and provision in Barzillai's life as he returned home.

Practical Application

The interaction between David and Barzillai offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Expressing Gratitude: Like David, we should be quick to acknowledge and express genuine gratitude to those who support us, especially during difficult times. A sincere "thank you" or a gesture of appreciation can deeply impact others.
  • Valuing Loyalty: The passage underscores the immense value of loyalty and faithful service. We are called to be loyal in our relationships, to our commitments, and ultimately, to God.
  • Wisdom in Transitions: Barzillai's example teaches us the wisdom of knowing our limitations and making choices that align with our life stage. Not every opportunity, no matter how grand, is meant for every person at every time.
  • Graceful Farewells: Parting ways, whether in personal relationships or professional contexts, can be done with grace, honor, and blessing, leaving a lasting positive impression.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 31:55 (6 votes)

    And early in the morning Laban rose up, and kissed his sons and his daughters, and blessed them: and Laban departed, and returned unto his place.

  • Ruth 1:14 (4 votes)

    And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.

  • Genesis 47:7 (3 votes)

    And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and Jacob blessed Pharaoh.

  • Numbers 24:25 (2 votes)

    And Balaam rose up, and went and returned to his place: and Balak also went his way.

  • Genesis 28:3 (2 votes)

    And God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people;

  • 2 Samuel 6:18 (2 votes)

    And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt offerings and peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD of hosts.

  • 1 Samuel 24:22 (2 votes)

    And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; but David and his men gat them up unto the hold.