שמואל ב, פרק ט״ו, פסוק י״ז

Leaving Jerusalem behind, David sets out on a difficult journey, accompanied by a loyal following. The masses walking alongside him and following his lead [מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ] are the specific groups of supporters who will be detailed shortly after [מלבי״ם].

The entourage stops at a gathering point known as the Far House. The primary approach among commentators is that this was a physical location situated at a distance from Jerusalem. Specifically, it was the very last, outermost house standing beyond the city walls [מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. Halting at this isolated spot was a deliberate choice. Safely away from watching eyes, it provided a secure place for David to gather and organize all his men before continuing onward [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].

Beyond its geographical meaning, the name of this location carries a deeper, symbolic weight indicating a severe disconnect. On a homiletic level, the concept of distance hints at a painful social reality. It suggests that during this vulnerable time, David faced ostracization, with many people actively separating themselves from him [רד״ק].