2 Samuel 19:31-39

The Voice

³¹Barzillai from Gilead, who had fed the king’s forces, had come down from Rogelim to escort the king across the Jordan. ³²He was 80 years old and very wealthy, which is how he had been able to provide for the king while he was at Mahanaim.

David (to Barzillai): ³³Cross over with me, and come to Jerusalem. I’ll take care of you and give you a place of honor at my side.

Barzillai: ³⁴My king, how many years do I have left, that I should leave my home and relocate with the king to Jerusalem? I am too old for court life. ³⁵I am 80 years old today. My judgment is not as good as it used to be. I can’t taste my food, enjoy my drink, or even hear the pleasant singing of men and women. So why should you burden yourself with me, my lord and king? ³⁶I will travel a little farther with you across the Jordan, but you don’t owe me anything more for my hospitality. Why should you, my king, offer me such a handsome reward? ³⁷Please grant me your favor to return home, to die among my own people near the resting places of my parents. But do consider your servant Chimham. Let him come with you, and may you honor Chimham as you see fit.