2 samuel 15:20 - Whereas you came but yesterday, should I today make you go up and down with us, since I go where I may? Return, and take back your brothers. Mercy and truth be with you.”
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What does "2 samuel 15:20" mean?
This verse is spoken by King David to Ittai the Gittite during Absalom's rebellion. Let's break down the meaning:
"Whereas you came but yesterday...": David acknowledges that Ittai is a recent arrival. He's a foreigner, probably a mercenary soldier who just joined David's ranks.
"...should I today make you go up and down with us, since I go where I may?": David is saying, "Why should I force you to share in my uncertain fate and endure hardship with me? I don't know where I'm going; I'm fleeing for my life." The "up and down" refers to the toilsome journey and the instability of their situation as they flee from Absalom.
"Return, and take back your brothers.": David encourages Ittai to go back to his home and his people. He doesn't want Ittai to be burdened by David's problems, especially since Ittai has only recently joined him. "Your brothers" likely refers to the other Gittites who came with Ittai.
"Mercy and truth be with you.": This is a blessing or a farewell wish. David wishes Ittai kindness and faithfulness, suggesting that Ittai should remain faithful to his own people and that they should be kind to him.
In essence, David is showing compassion and selflessness. He is in a vulnerable position, being forced to flee his throne, but he is still concerned about the well-being of a newcomer. He doesn't want to drag Ittai into his troubles and offers him a gracious way out. This verse highlights David's character as a just and caring leader, even amidst his own crisis.
Context is important:
Ittai's response (found in the next verse, 2 Samuel 15:21) is crucial. He refuses David's offer and vows to stay with him, no matter the cost. This shows Ittai's incredible loyalty and dedication to David. The interaction, therefore, becomes a powerful example of loyalty and leadership.
2 samuel 15:20 - Whereas you came but yesterday, should I today make you go up and down with us, since I go where I may? Return, and take back your brothers. Mercy and truth be with you.”
What does "2 samuel 15:20" mean?
This verse is spoken by King David to Ittai the Gittite during Absalom's rebellion. Let's break down the meaning:
"Whereas you came but yesterday...": David acknowledges that Ittai is a recent arrival. He's a foreigner, probably a mercenary soldier who just joined David's ranks.
"...should I today make you go up and down with us, since I go where I may?": David is saying, "Why should I force you to share in my uncertain fate and endure hardship with me? I don't know where I'm going; I'm fleeing for my life." The "up and down" refers to the toilsome journey and the instability of their situation as they flee from Absalom.
"Return, and take back your brothers.": David encourages Ittai to go back to his home and his people. He doesn't want Ittai to be burdened by David's problems, especially since Ittai has only recently joined him. "Your brothers" likely refers to the other Gittites who came with Ittai.
"Mercy and truth be with you.": This is a blessing or a farewell wish. David wishes Ittai kindness and faithfulness, suggesting that Ittai should remain faithful to his own people and that they should be kind to him.
In essence, David is showing compassion and selflessness. He is in a vulnerable position, being forced to flee his throne, but he is still concerned about the well-being of a newcomer. He doesn't want to drag Ittai into his troubles and offers him a gracious way out. This verse highlights David's character as a just and caring leader, even amidst his own crisis.
Context is important:
Ittai's response (found in the next verse, 2 Samuel 15:21) is crucial. He refuses David's offer and vows to stay with him, no matter the cost. This shows Ittai's incredible loyalty and dedication to David. The interaction, therefore, becomes a powerful example of loyalty and leadership.