24. Mephibosheth, Saul’s grandson, also went down to meet King David. Mephibosheth had not cared for his feet, cut his beard or washed his clothes while David was gone. He had not done this from the time the king had left Jerusalem until he returned safely.
25. Mephibosheth came from Jerusalem to meet the king. The king asked him, “Mephibosheth, why didn’t you go with me?”
26. He answered, “My master, my servant Ziba tricked me! I said to Ziba, ‘I am crippled. So saddle a donkey. Then I will ride it so I can go with the king.’
27. But he lied about me to you. You, my master and king, are like an angel from God. Do what you think is good.
28. You could have killed all my grandfather’s family. Instead, you put me with the people who eat at your own table. So I don’t have a right to ask anything more from the king!”
29. The king said to him, “Don’t say anything more. I have decided that you and Ziba may divide the land.”
30. Mephibosheth said to the king, “Let Ziba take all the land. I’m just happy that my master the king has arrived in peace at his own house.”
31. Barzillai of Gilead came down from Rogelim to cross the Jordan River with the king.
32. Now Barzillai was a very old man. He was 80 years old. He had taken care of the king when David was staying at Mahanaim. Barzillai could do this, because he was a very rich man.
33. David said to Barzillai, “Cross the river with me. Come with me to Jerusalem, and I will take care of you.”
34. But Barzillai answered the king, “Do you know how old I am? Do you think I can go with you to Jerusalem?
35. I am 80 years old! I am too old to taste what I eat or drink. I am too old to hear the voices of men and women singers. Why should you be bothered with me?
36. I am not worthy of a reward from you. But I will cross the Jordan River with you.
37. Then please let me go back so I may die in my own city. Let me die near the grave of my father and mother. But here is Kimham. Let him go with you, my master and king. Do with him whatever you want.”