I am this day fourescore yeeres olde: and can I discerne betweene good and euill? Can thy seruant taste what I eate, or what I drinke? can I heare any more the voice of singing men and singing women? wherfore then should thy seruant bee yet a burden vnto my lord the king? 2 Samuel 19:35 (KJV)
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 (KJV)
Although the quotation is often presented as part of a conversation between Barzillai and King David, the biblical text does not record these exact words. Barzillai was a wealthy and generous man who had supported David and his men during their time of exile and conflict (see 1 Samuel 17:27‑29). In 2 Samuel 19, David returns to Jerusalem after Absalom’s rebellion is quelled and is restored to the throne. Barzillai is mentioned in the narrative, and his son offers to accompany David, demonstrating the family’s loyalty.
The opening lines of the passage express an awareness of age and a questioning of one’s ability to discern good from evil. While the specific wording is not biblical, the theme that age can bring wisdom and the capacity for sound judgment aligns with broader scriptural teaching.
The speaker’s questions about tasting food, drinking, and hearing the voices of singing men and women highlight the natural decline that accompanies old age. Though the exact expression is absent from Scripture, the idea that physical abilities wane with age is reflected elsewhere in the Bible.
Gratitude and humility are evident in the speaker’s reference to himself as “thy servant” and his concern about becoming a burden to the king. Barzillai’s actual biblical portrayal emphasizes his generosity and loyalty, and the sentiment of humility fits his character.
Finally, the passage conveys a willingness to relieve the king of any obligation, reflecting a self‑sacrificial attitude. While the precise words are not part of the canonical record, the notion of self‑sacrifice is a valued virtue throughout the biblical narrative. Together, these themes—wisdom, physical limitation, gratitude, humility, and selflessness—offer insight into how aging can be approached with grace and thankfulness.
