2 samuel 15:19 - Then the king said to Ittai the Gittite, “Why do you also go with us? Return, and stay with the king; for you are a foreigner, and also an exile. Return to your own place.

Generated Verse: 2 samuel 15:19

What does "2 samuel 15:19" mean?


In 2 Samuel 15:19, King David is fleeing Jerusalem because his son Absalom has launched a rebellion against him. David is trying to protect his people and avoid bloodshed.

The verse highlights David's interaction with Ittai the Gittite. Here's a breakdown of what it means:

Context: Ittai is a foreign warrior (from Gath) who has joined David's retinue, showing loyalty to him.
"Why do you also go with us?": David is expressing concern for Ittai's well-being and safety. He acknowledges that the situation is dangerous and uncertain.
"Return, and stay with the king": David advises Ittai to return to Jerusalem and remain with Absalom, the new self-proclaimed king.
"for you are a foreigner, and also an exile": This is the key to understanding David's motives. David reasons:
As a foreigner, Ittai has no inherent stake in the Israelite succession.
As an exile (someone who has left their home), Ittai is probably in David's service for personal safety or benefit. David suggests that staying with Absalom would be a sensible and safer course of action for him.
David may also be trying to protect Ittai from being caught up in a civil war that isn't his.

In essence, David is being considerate, suggesting that Ittai's loyalty is not required and that he should prioritize his own safety by aligning with the new power. David seems to be putting Ittai's interests before his own need for supporters.

However, Ittai's response in the following verses is important because it shows his deep loyalty to David, regardless of the circumstances. Ittai refuses to leave David's side, demonstrating remarkable devotion.