Definition: Thy servant will go a little way over Jordan with the king: and why should the king recompense it me with such a reward?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Samuel 19:36. It’s a really interesting and somewhat puzzling part of the story of David and Saul. Here's my explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: David is traveling with Saul (the King) over the Jordan River. This was a very important mission – David wanted to bring Saul to repentance, hoping he’d turn away from his evil ways. He's asking why the king should reward him for this journey. This is where it gets a little strange. What the Verse Means (Simplified): The verse says: "Thy servant will go a little way over Jordan with the king: and why should the king recompense it me with such a reward?" Let's unpack that: “Thy servant”: This is a very unusual phrase. It suggests David’s role is not solely his own – he's being guided by someone else, perhaps a spirit or a divine presence. “Go a little way over Jordan”: The Jordan River is a significant place in the Old Testament - it was a dangerous place for travelers and often associated with hardship and trouble. Going "a little way" implies a small distance from the main path. “With the king”: This highlights David’s position as an advisor to Saul, someone who is closely connected to the King's decisions. “Why should the king recompense it me?” – This is the core of the mystery. The King isn't just asking why David should be rewarded for a small journey. He's asking why he should reward him for something that seems insignificant . Possible Interpretations (There are a few, and they’re debated by scholars): Divine Guidance: The most common interpretation is that this verse isn't about a straightforward reward. It suggests that God is guiding David's actions, subtly influencing his decisions. The King is perhaps looking for a sign or confirmation of a divine plan. A Test: Some believe it’s a test of David’s loyalty and obedience to God. The small distance and the questioning about the reward could be a way for God to gauge how deeply he's committed to his purpose. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse remains open to interpretation, and there are different theological perspectives on it. It’s a classic example of biblical language that invites thoughtful reflection. --- To help me explain further or answer any specific questions you might have, could you tell me: What specifically are you curious about? (e.g., Do you want to know more about the context of the story?)