What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 19:31? Now Barzillai the Gileadite • Scripture first introduces Barzillai during David’s flight from Absalom, where he supplied the king “with beds, basins, and earthenware, as well as wheat, barley, flour… for they said, ‘The people have become hungry and weary and thirsty in the wilderness’ ” (2 Samuel 17:27-29). • His name appears again when David later instructs Solomon, “Show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite and let them be among those who eat at your table” (1 Kings 2:7). These references frame Barzillai as a steadfast ally rather than a passing acquaintance. • The verse begins with “Now,” signaling continuity: David is returning from exile, and the same friend who stepped in during crisis steps up again. Proverbs 17:17 reminds us, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Barzillai lives that proverb. had come down from Rogelim • Rogelim was a Transjordan settlement in Gilead, so “come down” implies Barzillai left the comfort of his home territory to meet David at the river. This is deliberate, not accidental. • Leaving home carried personal cost; at around eighty (2 Samuel 19:32), travel was no small effort. His action echoes the call found in Philippians 2:4—“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” • The geographical note roots the story in real space and time, underscoring the historical reliability of the narrative rather than presenting it as myth or parable. to cross the Jordan with the king • The Jordan River often marks a turning point: Israel entering the promised land (Joshua 3–4), Elijah’s final miracle before his fiery departure (2 Kings 2:8), and here, David’s restoration. • By crossing with David, Barzillai publicly identifies with the true, anointed king. In contrast, Shimei once cursed David along the same riverbank (2 Samuel 16:5-8); now, Barzillai honors him, recalling Jesus’ teaching, “Whoever acknowledges Me before men, I will also acknowledge before My Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). • This act is not mere sentiment. It carries political risk; pockets of Absalom’s sympathizers still exist (2 Samuel 19:41-43). Standing with David at the Jordan models Romans 12:9—“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” and send him on his way from there • The phrase pictures Barzillai escorting David across and then providing for the journey onward. 3 John 6 commends such hospitality: “You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.” • Barzillai’s generosity is practical: food, supplies, companionship, and likely protection. It illustrates James 2:16, warning against saying “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed” without tangible help. • The king’s welfare, not personal recognition, is Barzillai’s focus. He will shortly decline David’s generous offer to live at court (2 Samuel 19:34-37), choosing quiet service over royal privilege. summary Barzillai’s appearance in 2 Samuel 19:31 captures a living picture of covenant faithfulness. An elderly, wealthy Gileadite leaves Rogelim, meets David at the Jordan, publicly crosses with him, and personally equips the restored king for the road ahead. Every phrase of the verse spotlights concrete love that acts, risks, and gives—echoing the wider biblical call for believers to stand with God’s chosen, to sacrifice comfort, and to serve without thought of reward. |
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