2 Samuel 19:39 – “So all the people crossed the Jordan, and then the king crossed over. The king kissed Barzillai and bid him farewell, and Barzillai returned to his home.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse depicts a touching farewell between King David and Barzillai, an elderly man who had shown loyalty and kindness to the king during Absalom’s rebellion. After David’s victory, he invited Barzillai to come to Jerusalem and be cared for in the royal city. However, Barzillai declined, preferring to spend his final years in his hometown. The verse captures the moment when David crosses the Jordan River with his people and takes a moment to personally bid farewell to Barzillai. David’s gesture of kissing Barzillai is a sign of deep respect, affection, and gratitude for all that Barzillai had done for him. After their farewell, Barzillai returns home in peace.

Historical Context

This event takes place in the aftermath of Absalom’s rebellion, a difficult time when King David was forced to flee Jerusalem. During his exile, Barzillai, a wealthy man from Gilead, provided food and supplies for David and his men (2 Samuel 17:27-29). After Absalom was defeated and David was restored to the throne, the king offered Barzillai a place of honor in Jerusalem. However, Barzillai, who was in his eighties, chose to return to his hometown instead. The crossing of the Jordan River in this verse symbolizes David’s return to his rightful place as king, and his farewell to Barzillai is a meaningful moment of closure for both men.

Theological Implications

This verse speaks to themes of loyalty, humility, and the importance of relationships. Barzillai’s loyalty to David, despite the risks involved, reflects the type of faithfulness that God values in His people. In return, David’s gratitude and affection for Barzillai demonstrate the importance of honoring those who have shown kindness and support. Theologically, the verse shows that faithfulness and service to God and His people are not unnoticed and are often met with honor and blessing, even if we do not seek it. Barzillai’s humble decision to return home rather than seek further recognition in Jerusalem teaches that contentment and faithfulness in the life God has given us is highly valued in His kingdom.

Literary Analysis

The scene in this verse is filled with emotion and respect. David’s kiss and farewell to Barzillai highlight the deep bond between the two men, forged through loyalty and service. The crossing of the Jordan River serves as a symbolic transition, not only for David’s return to power but also for the conclusion of Barzillai’s direct involvement in David’s story. The mention of Barzillai returning home emphasizes his desire for a peaceful end to his life, content with the role he had played. The use of the Jordan River as the setting further enhances the idea of crossing from one chapter to another, both for David and for Barzillai.

Biblical Cross-References

This verse can be compared to other biblical instances where faithful service is honored. In Proverbs 27:18, it says, “Whoever tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and whoever looks after their master will be honored.” Barzillai’s loyalty to David reflects this principle, as he is honored by David in return. Additionally, the farewell between David and Barzillai mirrors other emotional partings in Scripture, such as Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:36-38. Both scenes depict heartfelt goodbyes between leaders and those who have faithfully served with them, illustrating the importance of relationships in God’s kingdom.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, this verse offers a powerful lesson in humility, service, and loyalty. Barzillai’s willingness to serve David in his time of need, without seeking recognition or reward, is a model of how believers should approach service to others. His contentment with returning home instead of seeking further honor in Jerusalem teaches us the value of being faithful to where God has placed us, rather than always striving for more recognition. Additionally, David’s response—showing honor and affection—reminds us to be grateful to those who have supported and served us throughout life. It encourages us to cultivate relationships built on mutual respect, loyalty, and love.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in the way He values faithful service and humble relationships. Just as David honored Barzillai’s loyalty, God honors and cares for those who serve Him and others selflessly. God’s love is expressed in the way He sees and rewards faithfulness, even when it is not accompanied by a desire for recognition. Barzillai’s decision to return home in peace, after being honored by David, also reflects the peace and contentment that come from knowing we have served faithfully where God has placed us. God’s love is shown in the way He provides for His people and values the relationships built on loyalty and faithfulness.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

David’s act of honoring Barzillai points to the ultimate example of honor and loyalty found in Jesus Christ. Just as David showed gratitude to Barzillai for his faithfulness, Jesus honors those who serve Him faithfully. In John 12:26, Jesus says, “Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” Jesus, like David, values faithful service and promises to honor those who serve Him. Moreover, the peace that Barzillai experiences in returning home can be seen as a reflection of the peace that Jesus offers to all who trust and follow Him, providing rest and contentment in His presence.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Barzillai’s loyalty to David inspire you to serve others faithfully, even when recognition is not the goal?
2. In what ways can you show gratitude and honor to those who have supported or served you throughout your life, as David did for Barzillai?
3. How can Barzillai’s decision to return home in peace, rather than seeking more recognition, challenge you to find contentment in your current season of life?
4. How does David’s farewell to Barzillai remind you of the importance of building relationships based on loyalty, love, and respect?
5. How can the honor and peace that Barzillai experienced in his final days encourage you to trust in Jesus’ promise of rest and reward for those who serve Him faithfully?