³¹^*Barzillai, from Gilead, had also come down from Rogelim to escort the king across the Jordan. ³²Barzillai was a very old man, 80 years old. He was very rich and had supplied the king with food while he was staying at Mahanaim. ³³The king said to him, “Come with me to Jerusalem, and I will take care of you.”

³⁴But Barzillai answered, “I haven’t long to live; why should I go with Your Majesty to Jerusalem? ³⁵I am already eighty years old, and nothing gives me pleasure any more. I can’t taste what I eat and drink, and I can’t hear the voices of singers. I would only be a burden to Your Majesty. ³⁶I don’t deserve such a great reward. So I will go just a little way with you beyond the Jordan. ³⁷Then let me go back home and die near my parents’ grave. Here is my son Chimham, who will serve you; take him with you, Your Majesty, and do for him as you think best.”

³⁸The king answered, “I will take him with me and do for him whatever you want. And I will do for you anything you ask.” ³⁹Then David and all his men crossed the Jordan. He kissed Barzillai and gave him his blessing, and Barzillai went back home.

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Cross references

*19.31: 2 S 17:27–29