Topical Bible: Thankfulness: To Barzillai

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Barzillai the Gileadite is a notable figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of King David's life. His account is a profound example of loyalty, generosity, and the reciprocal nature of thankfulness. Barzillai's actions and David's response to them provide a rich narrative on the theme of gratitude.

Biblical Context

Barzillai appears in the narrative during a tumultuous period in King David's reign. Absalom, David's son, had led a rebellion against his father, forcing David to flee Jerusalem. During this time of crisis, Barzillai, a wealthy and influential man from Rogelim in Gilead, provided essential support to David and his followers. The Bible records this act of kindness in 2 Samuel 17:27-29 :

"When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Machir son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim brought beds, basins, and pottery items. They also brought wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, curds, sheep, and cheese from the herd for David and his people to eat. For they said, 'The people have become hungry, exhausted, and thirsty in the wilderness.'"

Barzillai's generosity was not only a practical support but also a significant morale booster for David and his men during a time of great need.

David's Thankfulness

After Absalom's defeat and David's return to Jerusalem, David sought to express his gratitude to Barzillai. In 2 Samuel 19:31-39 , David invites Barzillai to come to Jerusalem so that he might care for him in his old age as a token of his appreciation:

"Barzillai the Gileadite had also come down from Rogelim to escort the king across the Jordan. He was a very old man, eighty years of age, and since he was a very wealthy man, he had provided for the king during his stay in Mahanaim. The king said to Barzillai, 'Cross over with me, and I will provide for you at my side in Jerusalem.' But Barzillai replied, 'How many years of my life remain, that I should go up to Jerusalem with the king? I am now eighty years old. Can I discern what is good and what is not? Can your servant taste what he eats and drinks? Can I still hear the voices of male and female singers? Why should your servant be an added burden to my lord the king? Your servant will cross over the Jordan with the king for a short distance, but why should the king reward me in this way? Please let your servant return, that I may die in my own city near the tomb of my father and mother. But here is your servant Chimham. Let him cross over with my lord the king. Do for him whatever you wish.' The king replied, 'Chimham shall cross over with me, and I will do for him whatever pleases you. And whatever you desire from me, I will do for you.' So all the people crossed the Jordan, and when the king had crossed over, he kissed Barzillai and blessed him, and Barzillai returned to his home."

Theological Implications

Barzillai's account highlights the biblical principle of thankfulness as a response to kindness and support. David's desire to reward Barzillai reflects a heart of gratitude, recognizing the importance of acknowledging and reciprocating the generosity shown to him. This narrative underscores the value of community and mutual support, as well as the importance of expressing gratitude in tangible ways.

Barzillai's humility and contentment, choosing to remain in his homeland rather than accept David's offer, also illustrate a profound understanding of life's priorities. His willingness to allow his servant Chimham to benefit from David's gratitude demonstrates a selfless character, further enriching the theme of thankfulness in this account.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 2:7
But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at your table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom your brother.
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A Last Look-Out
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