King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 11:3 Mean?

“Therefore came all the elders of Israel to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel. by: Heb. by the hand of”

Context

Then all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.

And moreover in time past, even when Saul was king, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over my people Israel. in time: Heb. both yesterday and the third day feed: or, rule

Therefore came all the elders of Israel to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel. by: Heb. by the hand of

And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, which is Jebus; where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land.

And the inhabitants of Jebus said to David, Thou shalt not come hither. Nevertheless David took the castle of Zion, which is the city of David.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **Therefore came all the elders of Israel.**—The assembly of elders, the Senate of Israel, make a contract with David concerning his prerogative and the rights of his people, thus formally determining “the manner of the kingdom.” (Comp. 1Samuel 8:9 *seq.,* 1Samuel 10:25.) Representative institutions appear to have been the rule in the best period of Israel’s national existence. The elders or hereditary heads of the tribal subdivisions met in council to discuss and settle matters of national concern. (Comp. 1Chronicles 12:23.) **Before the Lord.**—In the presence of the high priest, and perhaps before the ark; comp. Exodus 21:6; 1Samuel 2:25, where the priestly nudge is called God, as representing the authority of the Divine judge (Exodus 22:28). **According to the word of the Lord by Samuel.**—A reflection added by the chronicler, and based upon the facts related in 1Samuel 15:28; 1Samuel 16:1-13.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 11:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.