Barzillai the Gileadite is a notable figure in the Old Testament, recognized for his loyalty and generosity towards King David during a time of great need. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Kings.

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 reign of King David, a period marked by both triumphs and tribulations for the nation of Israel.

Support for King David

Barzillai's most significant contribution is recorded during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son, who sought to usurp the throne. As David fled Jerusalem to escape Absalom's forces, he and his followers found themselves in dire need of provisions and support. Barzillai, along with other allies such as Shobi and Machir, provided essential sustenance and supplies to David and his men. 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.'"

This act of generosity not only provided physical sustenance but also demonstrated Barzillai's loyalty to the rightful king of Israel, reinforcing David's position during a critical moment.

Encounter with David

After Absalom's defeat, David prepared to return to Jerusalem and resume his reign. As he crossed the Jordan River, Barzillai came to bid farewell to the king. David, in gratitude for Barzillai's support, offered to take him to Jerusalem and provide for him there. However, Barzillai, being advanced in age, declined the offer, preferring to remain in his homeland. Instead, he suggested that his servant Chimham accompany David. This encounter is detailed in 2 Samuel 19:31-39 :

"Now Barzillai the Gileadite had also come down from Rogelim to escort the king across the Jordan. Barzillai 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 what seems good to you.' The king replied, 'Chimham shall cross over with me, and I will do for him whatever seems good to you, and anything 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."

Legacy

Barzillai's legacy is one of faithfulness and service. His actions during David's time of need exemplify the virtues of loyalty, generosity, and humility. His willingness to support God's anointed king, even at personal cost, highlights the importance of standing by righteous leadership. Barzillai's account serves as an enduring example of how individuals can impact God's kingdom through acts of kindness and support for His chosen leaders. His name is later mentioned in 1 Kings 2:7 , where David instructs Solomon to show kindness to the sons of Barzillai, ensuring that his legacy of loyalty and service would be remembered and honored.