2 Samuel 19:31-39 ▼

31 Barzillai the Gileadite had come down from Rogelim and accompanied the king to the Jordan River to see him off at the Jordan.

32 Barzillai was a very old man  — 80 years old  — and since he was a very wealthy man, he had provided for the needs of the king while he stayed in Mahanaim.

33 The king said to Barzillai, “ Cross over with me, and I’ll provide for you at my side in Jerusalem.”

34 Barzillai replied to the king, “ How many years of my life are left that I should go up to Jerusalem with the king?

35 I’m now 80 years old . Can I discern what is pleasant and what is not ? Can your servant taste what he eats or drinks? Can I still hear the voice of male and female singers ? Why should your servant be an added burden to my lord the king?

36 Since your servant is only going with the king a little way across the Jordan, why should the king repay me with such a reward?

37 Please let your servant return so 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 what seems good to you.”

38 The king replied, “ Chimham will cross over with me, and I will do for him what seems good to you, and whatever you desire from me I will do for you.”

39 So all the people crossed the Jordan, and then the king crossed. The king kissed Barzillai and blessed him, and Barzillai returned to his home.