And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over, the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own place.

2 SAMUEL 19:39KJV
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2 Samuel 19:39 (KJV)

What does 2 Samuel 19:39 mean?

2 Samuel 19:39 describes how all the people crossed the Jordan River, and when King David had also crossed, he showed affection and gratitude to Barzillai by kissing him and blessing him before Barzillai returned to his own home. This verse highlights a personal moment between David and Barzillai after a significant journey.

In this scene, King David is returning to Jerusalem after being exiled during Absalom’s rebellion. Barzillai, an elderly and wealthy supporter of David, had helped provide for David during his time away. The verse captures David’s public thanks and farewell to Barzillai as the people and their king cross back into their land, marking the end of a difficult chapter.

The Hebrew behind 2 Samuel 19:39

  • "kissed" (נָשַׁק, nashaq): This word often means a gesture of affection, respect, or farewell. Here, it shows David’s deep appreciation and personal connection to Barzillai.
  • "blessed" (בָּרַךְ, barakh): To bless someone in this context means to speak well of them or wish them well, often invoking God’s favor. David’s blessing is a formal and heartfelt acknowledgment of Barzillai’s support.
  • "returned" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to go back or return. The verse notes that Barzillai went back to his own place, emphasizing the closure of his role in David’s journey.

Why 2 Samuel 19:39 matters

  • This verse clears up that Barzillai did not continue with David to Jerusalem, but instead returned home, showing his humility and contentment with his own life.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude and honor in relationships, as David does not take Barzillai’s help for granted.
  • It connects to the wider passage by marking the transition from David’s time in exile back to his kingship, with the support of loyal friends like Barzillai being publicly recognized.

Where else these words appear

“Barzillai” Hebrew H1271 · used in 10 verses

  • 2 Samuel 17:27 And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,
  • 2 Samuel 19:33 And the king said unto Barzillai, Come thou over with me, and I will feed thee with me in Jerusalem.
  • 1 Kings 2:7 But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.

“kissed” Hebrew H5401 · used in 35 verses

  • Genesis 27:26 And his father Isaac said unto him, Come near now, and kiss me, my son.
  • Exodus 4:27 And the LORD said to Aaron, Go into the wilderness to meet Moses. And he went, and met him in the mount of God, and kissed him.
  • 1 Chronicles 12:2 They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow, even of Saul's brethren of Benjamin.