(39)
All the people.--As "Israel" has been used throughout this narrative for Absalom's supporters, so "the people" is used for those faithful to David.
19:31-39 Barzillai thought he had done himself honour in doing the king any service. Thus, when the saints shall be called to inherit the kingdom, they will be amazed at the recompence being so very far beyond the service, Mt 25:37. A good man would not go any where to be burdensome; or, will rather be so to his own house than to another's. It is good for all, but especially becomes old people, to think and speak much of dying. The grave is ready for me, let me go and get ready for it.
And all the people went over Jordan,.... That were with David:
and when the king was come over; over Jordan, had got to the other side of it, whither Barzillai accompanied him:
the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; took his leave of him with a kiss, as friends were wont to do at parting, thanked him for all his favours, wished him well, and prayed to God to bless him with all blessings temporal and spiritual:
and he returned to his own place: his own city Rogelim, having crossed over again the river Jordan.