The king said to Ittai of Gath, ‘Why are you also going with us? Go back and stay with the new king since you’re both a foreigner and an exile from your homeland.
He then sent out the troops, a third under Joab, a third under Joab’s brother Abishai son of Zeruiah, and a third under Ittai of Gath. The king said to the troops, ‘I must also march out with you.’
Besides, you only arrived yesterday; should I make you wander around with us today while I go wherever I can? Go back and take your brothers with you. May the Lord show you kindness and faithfulness.’