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2 Samuel 19:35

I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

2 Samuel 19:35 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker reflects on their old age and questions their ability to continue serving their king. They acknowledge their advanced age of eighty years and wonder if they are still capable of discerning between good and evil, tasting their food and drink, or enjoying the pleasures of music. The speaker expresses a sense of weariness and questions why they should continue to burden their king with their presence. This passage highlights the speaker's humility and self-awareness of their limitations as they age. It serves as a reminder of the natural process of aging and the shifting responsibilities that come with it. Overall, this verse prompts us to consider the value of wisdom that comes with age and the importance of knowing when it may be time to step back and allow others to take the lead.

Theological Overview

Looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we see King David reflecting on his old age and questioning his ability to govern effectively. By expressing doubt in his capacity to discern between good and evil, taste food and drink, and enjoy music, David acknowledges his limitations as a leader due to his advanced age. This passage highlights the humility and self-awareness of King David, recognizing the physical and mental decline that comes with age. In recognizing his own frailty, David seeks to avoid becoming a burden to his people and to the king. This serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging our limitations and seeking to serve others with humility and grace.

2 Samuel 19:35 in other translations

American Standard Version

I am this day fourscore years old: can I discern between good and bad? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

World English Bible

I am this day eighty years old. Can I discern between good and bad? Can your servant taste what I eat or what I drink? Can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? Why then should your servant be yet a burden to my lord the king?

Douay-Rheims

I am this day fourscore years old, are my senses quick to discern sweet and bitter? or can meat or drink delight thy servant? or can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? why should thy servant be a burden to my lord, the king?

Geneva Bible (1599)

I am this day fourescore yeere olde: and can I discerne betweene good or euill? Hath thy seruant any taste in that I eat or in that I drinke? Can I heare any more the voyce of singing men and women? wherefore then should thy seruant be anymore a burthen vnto my lord the king?