This verse, 2 Samuel 19:38, is a response from King David to Barzillai, an elderly Gileadite who had generously provided for David and his army while they were in exile during Absalom's rebellion. Let's break down the meaning:
Context: David is returning to Jerusalem and his throne after Absalom's defeat. He's deeply grateful for the support he received during his exile. Barzillai, a wealthy and influential man, was particularly helpful.
Barzillai's Refusal to Accompany David: David offers Barzillai the opportunity to come live in Jerusalem and be provided for by the king in his old age (2 Samuel 19:31-37). However, Barzillai, now 80 years old, respectfully declines, saying he's too old to enjoy the benefits of the court and prefers to die in his own city.
Chimham: Chimham is likely Barzillai's son or a close relative, perhaps even a servant adopted as a son. Barzillai, knowing he can't accept David's offer personally, subtly suggests that Chimham could take his place.
"Chimham shall go over with me...": David agrees. Instead of Barzillai, Chimham will join David and travel to Jerusalem with him.
"...and I will do to him that which shall seem good to you.": This is the key part of the verse. David is essentially saying, "I will treat Chimham according to your (Barzillai's) wishes." He gives Barzillai the authority to determine what kind of position or favor Chimham should receive. It's a gesture of immense gratitude and respect towards Barzillai. David trusts Barzillai's judgment implicitly.
"Whatever you request of me, that I will do for you.": This is further emphasizing David's profound gratitude. He is telling Barzillai that he is ready to fulfill any requests for Chimham and his continued support is appreciated.
In essence, the verse means:
David is profoundly grateful to Barzillai for his past support and wants to reward him. Since Barzillai declines to come to Jerusalem himself due to his age, David agrees to take Chimham in his place. Furthermore, David grants Barzillai complete control over Chimham's treatment and future at the royal court. David promises to fulfill any request Barzillai makes on Chimham's behalf. It's a powerful demonstration of David's loyalty, gratitude, and willingness to honor those who helped him in his time of need. It highlights that David isn't just offering a position to Chimham; he's offering to treat him with the same level of respect and honor that Barzillai deserves.
It is also a way for David to extend favor to the next generation of someone who had been loyal to him. It shows that David valued long-term relationships and loyalty.
This verse, 2 Samuel 19:38, is a response from King David to Barzillai, an elderly Gileadite who had generously provided for David and his army while they were in exile during Absalom's rebellion. Let's break down the meaning:
Context: David is returning to Jerusalem and his throne after Absalom's defeat. He's deeply grateful for the support he received during his exile. Barzillai, a wealthy and influential man, was particularly helpful.
Barzillai's Refusal to Accompany David: David offers Barzillai the opportunity to come live in Jerusalem and be provided for by the king in his old age (2 Samuel 19:31-37). However, Barzillai, now 80 years old, respectfully declines, saying he's too old to enjoy the benefits of the court and prefers to die in his own city.
Chimham: Chimham is likely Barzillai's son or a close relative, perhaps even a servant adopted as a son. Barzillai, knowing he can't accept David's offer personally, subtly suggests that Chimham could take his place.
"Chimham shall go over with me...": David agrees. Instead of Barzillai, Chimham will join David and travel to Jerusalem with him.
"...and I will do to him that which shall seem good to you.": This is the key part of the verse. David is essentially saying, "I will treat Chimham according to your (Barzillai's) wishes." He gives Barzillai the authority to determine what kind of position or favor Chimham should receive. It's a gesture of immense gratitude and respect towards Barzillai. David trusts Barzillai's judgment implicitly.
"Whatever you request of me, that I will do for you.": This is further emphasizing David's profound gratitude. He is telling Barzillai that he is ready to fulfill any requests for Chimham and his continued support is appreciated.
In essence, the verse means:
David is profoundly grateful to Barzillai for his past support and wants to reward him. Since Barzillai declines to come to Jerusalem himself due to his age, David agrees to take Chimham in his place. Furthermore, David grants Barzillai complete control over Chimham's treatment and future at the royal court. David promises to fulfill any request Barzillai makes on Chimham's behalf. It's a powerful demonstration of David's loyalty, gratitude, and willingness to honor those who helped him in his time of need. It highlights that David isn't just offering a position to Chimham; he's offering to treat him with the same level of respect and honor that Barzillai deserves.
It is also a way for David to extend favor to the next generation of someone who had been loyal to him. It shows that David valued long-term relationships and loyalty.