Barzillai the Gileadite is a notable figure in the Bible, particularly in the context of contentment and loyalty. He is introduced in the narrative of King David's life, during a time of great turmoil and upheaval. Barzillai's account is primarily found in 2 Samuel 17:27-29 and 2 Samuel 19:31-39.

Background and Context

Barzillai was a wealthy and influential man from Rogelim in Gilead. His wealth and status, however, did not lead him to seek power or recognition. Instead, Barzillai is remembered for his generosity and contentment with his life and circumstances. During Absalom's rebellion against King David, Barzillai provided essential support to David and his men. As David fled Jerusalem, Barzillai, along with others, brought beds, basins, pottery, wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, honey, curds, sheep, and cheese to sustain the king and his people in the wilderness (2 Samuel 17:27-29).

Demonstration of Contentment

Barzillai's actions during this crisis reveal a man who was content with his life and possessions, using them to serve others rather than seeking personal gain. His support for David was not motivated by a desire for political favor or advancement but by loyalty and a sense of duty. This is further illustrated when David, after regaining his throne, offers to take Barzillai to Jerusalem to care for him in his old age as a reward for his loyalty and kindness.

Barzillai's response to David's offer is a profound testament to his contentment. In 2 Samuel 19:34-37 , Barzillai declines the king's generous offer, saying, "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 go a little way across the Jordan with the king. 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."

Barzillai's refusal of the king's offer highlights his satisfaction with his life in Gilead. He preferred to remain in his homeland, close to his family, rather than seek the comforts and honors of the royal court. His contentment was rooted in his relationships and his place in the community, rather than in material wealth or status.

Legacy and Influence

Barzillai's contentment and loyalty left a lasting impression on King David. In 1 Kings 2:7 , as David instructs Solomon, he says, "But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite and let them be among those who eat at your table, because they stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom." This directive underscores the high regard in which David held Barzillai and his family, ensuring that his kindness and loyalty would be remembered and rewarded.

Barzillai's life serves as an example of contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances or the pursuit of power. His account encourages believers to find satisfaction in serving others and remaining faithful to their commitments, trusting in God's provision and timing.2 Samuel 19:33-37
And the king said to Barzillai, Come you over with me, and I will feed you with me in Jerusalem.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

"The King Kissed Barzillai. " 2 Sam. xix. 39
... Barzillai when parting from him; he had pressed his friend to go back with him to
Jerusalem, but. II.--- WE SEE A BEAUTIFUL ILLUSTRATION OF CONTENTMENT."They ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/champness/broken bread/lv the king kissed barzillai.htm

What does the Bible say about contentment? | GotQuestions.org

What does it mean that godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6)? | GotQuestions.org

Why is the love of money the root of all kinds of evil? | GotQuestions.org

Contentment: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus