Definition: And Barzillai said unto the king, How long have I to live, that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 19:34. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about a man named Barzillai and his position in the King’s court. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: Barzillai is essentially asking the king, “How long am I going to be alive? Will I be allowed to go with the King to Jerusalem?” This highlights a really serious situation – he's being treated as less than a royal figure. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Barzillai said unto the king…” : This tells us who is speaking. It’s a man named Barzillai, and he’s speaking to the King. “…How long have I to live…” : This is the core of the question. He's asking about his lifespan. "...that I should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?” : This is the crucial part. “Up” means to Jerusalem. “Go” means to travel. So, he’s asking if he can be allowed to travel to Jerusalem. What it suggests – and why it's a bit difficult to understand: This verse speaks to a very specific situation in ancient Israel. It points to a period of political instability and potential exile for Barzillai. Here's the key takeaway: He’s being treated as subordinate: The King is essentially saying he’s not valued or important enough to be allowed to travel with him. It’s about survival and loyalty: The King’s concern is that Barzillai must stay within the kingdom, so he can continue to serve and be safe. His life is tied to the King’s well-being and the stability of Israel. Important Context – It's a Bit Darker Than You Might Expect: The Hebrew Bible often deals with difficult realities. This verse isn’t about Barzillai being unhappy; it’s about a political situation where his position is precarious. It reflects a time when the King was dealing with threats and challenges, and Barzillai's safety was crucial for maintaining order. In short, this verse is a snapshot of a challenging time, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and the need to remain within the kingdom. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Connect it to a specific biblical story or figure?