2 Samuel 19:37
Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, and be buried by the grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.
2 Samuel 19:37 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse you are referencing comes from the book of 2 Samuel in the Old Testament of the Bible. In this verse, a man named Barzillai humbly requests King David to allow him to return to his own city to die and be buried with his ancestors. Barzillai expresses his desire to be laid to rest alongside his father and mother, showing his deep attachment to his family and his homeland. He asks the king to allow his servant Chimham to accompany him on his journey back home. By making this request, Barzillai demonstrates his loyalty and sense of duty towards his family. He puts the wishes of his servant before his own, showing his selflessness and compassion as a leader. Ultimately, this verse reflects the importance of family, tradition, and honoring one's ancestors in Jewish culture.
Theological Overview
In this passage, the word "servant" is significant in understanding the relationship between the speaker and King David. By addressing himself as a servant, the speaker is acknowledging his position of subordination and loyalty to the king. In the context of the verse, the speaker is expressing his desire to return to his own city to die and be buried among his ancestors. This demonstrates a deep attachment to his familial roots and a desire for a traditional burial. The mention of Chimham as an alternative to the speaker going back himself raises questions about the significance of Chimham and the reasons for his involvement in the situation. The theological interpretation of this verse can focus on themes of loyalty, honor, and legacy, as well as the role of individuals in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities. Overall, this verse provides insight into the complex relationships and decisions faced by the characters in the biblical narrative.
2 Samuel 19:37 in other translations
American Standard Version
Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, by the grave of my father and my mother. But behold, thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.
World English Bible
Please let your servant turn back again, that I may die in my own city, by the grave of my father and my mother. But behold, your servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good to you.”
Douay-Rheims
But I beseech thee let thy servant return, and die in my own city, and be buried by the sepulchre of my father, and of my mother. But there is thy servant Chamaam, let him go with thee, my lord, the king, and do to him whatsoever seemeth good to thee.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I pray thee, let thy seruant turne backe againe, that I may die in mine owne citie, and be buryed in the graue of my father and of my mother: but beholde thy seruant Chimham, let him goe with my lorde the king, and doe to him what shall please thee.