Definition: Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou [art] a stranger, and also an exile.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 15:19. It’s a really important message about David’s plan for his son, Jonathan. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: David is telling Ittai, his second-in-command, that he wants him to stay with him and the king for a while. Ittai is being sent to serve the king, but David doesn’t want him to become a stranger or an exile – meaning he's not truly part of the family anymore. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “2 Samuel 15:19 Then said the king to Ittai the Gittite…” This tells us who is saying this. David, the King of Israel, is speaking directly to his second-in-command, Ittai. “…to Ittai the Gittite” Ittai is a Jewish man (Gittite), who was originally a servant of David's. He’s been sent to help with the preparations for David’s war against Goliath. “Wherefore goest thou also with us?” This is a question from David, asking Ittai if he wants to join him on this journey. “return to thy place, and abide with the king: for thou [art] a stranger, and also an exile.” This is the core of the message. "Thou [art] a stranger..." This means David sees Ittai as someone who doesn't belong – someone who has been exiled from his family and position. "...and also an exile." David is saying that Ittai has become a separate person, separate from the family and community he grew up in. He’s no longer part of their life. In short, David is telling Ittai to leave his post and stay with him – essentially letting him become a servant of the king. He's making sure that Ittai doesn’t become an outsider or a burden. Why is this important? This verse highlights a key point in the story of David's life: David was exiled from his family and kingdom multiple times. It’s a reminder that even those who are loyal to someone can be separated from them, and that it’s crucial to remember and honor those who have been exiled – especially those who are serving in important positions. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an analogy? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of David's life?