Topical Bible: Citizens: Loyal: Barzillai

◄ Citizens: Loyal: Barzillai ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Barzillai the Gileadite is a notable figure in the Old Testament, recognized for his loyalty and support to King David during a critical period in the monarch's life. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, where his actions exemplify the virtues of loyalty, generosity, and faithfulness.

Background and Context

Barzillai was a wealthy and influential man from Rogelim in Gilead, a region east of the Jordan River. His name, Barzillai, means "man of iron," which may reflect his strong character and steadfastness. He lived during the time of King David, Israel's second king, who reigned from approximately 1010 to 970 BC.

Support for King David

Barzillai's most significant contribution is recorded during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. When Absalom usurped the throne, David was forced to flee Jerusalem to escape the threat. During this time of crisis, Barzillai demonstrated remarkable loyalty to David. As the king and his followers crossed the Jordan River, Barzillai provided them with essential supplies and sustenance. The Bible records:

"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.'" (2 Samuel 17:27-29)

Barzillai's actions were not only generous but also strategically important, as they provided much-needed support to David and his men during a vulnerable time.

David's Gratitude and Barzillai's Humility

After Absalom's defeat and David's return to Jerusalem, the king wished to reward Barzillai for his loyalty. David invited him to come to Jerusalem and offered to provide for him at the royal court. However, Barzillai, who was eighty years old at the time, humbly declined the offer, preferring to remain in his own land. He said to David:

"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?" (2 Samuel 19:34-35)

Instead, Barzillai suggested that his servant Chimham accompany David, and the king agreed, showing his respect for Barzillai's wishes.

Legacy

Barzillai's loyalty to David left a lasting impression. On his deathbed, David instructed his son Solomon to show kindness to the sons of Barzillai, ensuring that his family would continue to be honored in Israel:

"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." (1 Kings 2:7)

Barzillai's account is a testament to the virtues of loyalty and humility. His actions during a time of political upheaval highlight the importance of steadfast support for God's anointed leaders and the blessings that come from such faithfulness.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 19:32
Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very great man.
Nave's Topical Index