Who was Barzillai in the Bible?

What does the Bible say about Barzillai?

Barzillai was a wealthy Gileadite from Rogelim who provided essential support to King David during his flight from his son Absalom's rebellion (2Sa.17.27-29). Along with others, Barzillai generously supplied food and provisions for David and his men. After Absalom's defeat, when David returned to Jerusalem, Barzillai accompanied him to the Jordan River (2Sa.19.31-39). Due to his advanced age of eighty, Barzillai declined David's invitation to join him in Jerusalem, but he sent his son Chimham in his place. David blessed Barzillai and promised to show kindness to his family. Later, on his deathbed, David instructed Solomon to show favor to Barzillai's descendants (1Ki.2.7). Barzillai's loyalty and generosity during David's time of need were remembered and honored by the king. In Ezr.2.61 and Neh.7.63, a priestly family is mentioned who traced their lineage to Barzillai, indicating the enduring impact of his devotion to David.

Where does Barzillai appear in the Bible?

Barzillai is referenced in 6 verses across 2 books. Every passage below is about this one, not just every verse the word turns up in.

• 1 Kings 2:7
• 2 Samuel 19:31
• 2 Samuel 19:32
• 2 Samuel 19:33
• 2 Samuel 19:34
• 2 Samuel 19:39

What else appears in these passages?

These turn up in the same passages as Barzillai.