2Sa 17:27, 19:31-39, 1Ki 2:7 | TSK | STEP | the son of Nahash. Machir. Barzillai.

Let thy.The whole of this little episode is extremely interesting, and contains an affecting description of the infirmities of old age. The venerable and kind Barzillai was fourscore years old; his ear was become dull of hearing, and his relish for even royal dainties was gone: the evil days had arrived in which he was constrained to say, "I have no pleasure in them." (Ec 12:1.) As he was too old either to enjoy the pleasures of a court, or to be of any further service to the king, he finishes his affecting address to the aged monarch with the request, that he would suffer him to enjoy what old men naturally desire, to "die in mine own city, and be buried by the grave of my father and mother;" at the same time commending his son Chimham to his kind offices.

I may die.

Ge 48:21; Jos 23:14; Lu 2:29,30; 2Ti 4:6; 2Pe 1:14

by the grave.

Ge 47:30; 49:29-31; 50:13; 1Ki 13:22

Chimham.

40; 1Ki 2:7; Jer 41:17

require. Heb. choose.

the king.The kiss was the token of friendship and farewell; the blessing was a prayer to God for his prosperity: probably a prophetical benediction.

kissed Barzillai.

Ge 31:55; 45:15; Ru 1:14; 1Ki 19:20; Ac 20:37; 1Th 5:26

blessed.

6:18,20; 13:25; Ge 14:19; 28:3; 47:7,10; Lu 2:34