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2 Samuel 17:24–29
Then David went to Mahanaim. And Absalom crossed over the Jordan, he and all the men of Israel with him (v. 24).
Having followed Hushai’s advice to cross the Jordan, David and his men move on to the northeast, into the region of Gilead. Absalom responds by mustering “all the men of Israel” and giving chase. He names a certain Amasa as commander of the army in place of Joab, who is with David (18:2). Like Joab, Amasa is a nephew of David and therefore a cousin of Joab and Absalom.
David finally arrives in the town of Mahanaim. This was the place where Saul’s general, Abner, briefly set up Saul’s son Ishbosheth as a puppet king before David came to the throne (2 Sam. 2:8–9). It is thought that Abner selected Mahanaim as Ishbosheth’s seat because the area was a hotbed of support for Saul. If true, we would expect David to get a chilly reception here. However, David is met by a trio of men who show him kindness that stands in stark contrast to the enmity of Absalom, Ahithophel, and others. They are:
Shobi the son of Nahash from Rabbah in Ammon. This apparently is the brother of Hanun, who came to the throne of Ammon and insulted David’s envoys (10:1–4). Matthew Henry speculates that he may have opposed his brother’s humiliation of the envoys and received David’s kindness for his stance, a kindness he now returns. It may also be that he now rules Ammon in his brother’s stead at David’s appointment.
Machir the son of Ammiel from Lo Debar. This man cared for Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth (9:4) until David extended his kindness to him. Machir’s own kindness to David may flow from an appreciation for David’s treatment of Mephibosheth.
Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim. Little is known about this man except that he is a rich eighty-year-old (19:31–37).
These three men bring all sorts of supplies and food items that David and his men did not have time to gather when they fled. But more importantly, they are showing loyalty to David by supporting him publicly—even though the crucial battle with Absalom has not yet been fought. “In token of their dutiful affection to him, their firm adherence to his government, and their sincere concern for him in his present straits, of their own good will they brought in plenty of all that which he had occasion for,” Henry writes.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai declared their loyalty at a time when many people probably were Ezekiel waiting to see who would win the conflict between David and Absalom. How much more then should we declare our loyalty to Christ, who has won the victory? Resolve today, by God’s help, to live consistent with your calling as a Christian.
For Further Study
- 2 Chron. 16:9
- Isa. 38:3
- Matt. 10:32–33
- 1 Thess. 1:6–8