David's acceptance of Ittai's commitment and his command that the Gittite and his men pass by represents the king's acknowledgment of the loyalty that has been offered and his acceptance of the followers who refuse to abandon him. The command that Ittai pass by the king, presumably to take position in the flight and the coming conflict, represents David's incorporation of the loyal Gittite into his military forces and his recognition of the value of having such committed followers. The brevity of David's response to Ittai's declaration of loyalty—simply accepting the commitment and directing the Gittite to proceed—suggests the king's emotional response to the loyalty offered and his recognition of his dependence on those who remain loyal. The verse demonstrates David's acceptance of loyalty and his gracious reception of those who choose to follow him despite the peril.

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