Whereas thou camest but yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy brethren: mercy and truth be with thee.
You just arrived yesterday, so should I make you wander around with us today? Since I don't even know where I'm going, you should go back and take your fellow soldiers with you. May God's mercy and truth go with you.
David is telling a loyal follower that he shouldn't have to share in David's uncertain and dangerous journey, and he blesses him as he sends him away.
📚 Historical Context
David is speaking to Ittai the Gittite, a foreign mercenary who had recently joined David's service. This occurs during David's flight from Jerusalem when his son Absalom staged a coup to take the throne. David is encouraging his newest followers to return to safety rather than face the dangers of exile with him.
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