33 David said to him, “Cross the river and go to Jerusalem with me. I will take care of you.”
34 Barzillai answered:Your Majesty, why should I go to Jerusalem? I don't have much longer to live.
35 I'm already 80 years old, and my body is almost numb. I can't taste my food or hear the sound of singing, and I would be nothing but a burden.
36 I'll cross the river with you, but I'll only go a little way on the other side. You don't have to be so kind to me.
37 Just let me return to my hometown, where I can someday be buried near my father and mother. My servant Chimham can go with you, and you can treat him as your own.
38 David said, “I'll take Chimham with me, and whatever you ask me to do for him, I'll do. And if there's anything else you want, I'll also do that.”
39 David's soldiers went on across the river, while he stayed behind to tell Barzillai goodbye and to wish him well. Barzillai returned home, but