King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 11:47 Mean?

1 Chronicles 11:47 in the King James Version says “Eliel, and Obed, and Jasiel the Mesobaite.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Eliel, and Obed, and Jasiel the Mesobaite.”

1 Chronicles 11:47 · King James Version

Context

45

Jediael the son of Shimri, and Joha his brother, the Tizite, son: or, Shimrite

46

Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite,

47

Eliel, and Obed, and Jasiel the Mesobaite.

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Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on David established as king and mighty men. The Hebrew term בְּרִית (berit) - covenant is theologically significant here, pointing to God's sovereign choice of leadership. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about God's sovereign choice of leadership. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: David as type of Christ, the Messianic King.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of David established as king and mighty men occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on God's sovereign choice of leadership challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does David as type of Christ, the Messianic King teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
אֱלִיאֵ֣ל1 of 4

“Eliel”

H447

eliel, the name of nine israelites

וְעוֹבֵ֔ד2 of 4

“and Obed”

H5744

obed, the name of five israelites

וְיַֽעֲשִׂיאֵ֖ל3 of 4

“and Jasiel”

H3300

jaasiel, an israelite

הַמְּצֹֽבָיָֽה׃4 of 4

“the Mesobaite”

H4677

metsobajah, a place in palestine

Study Guide

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 11:47 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Places in This Verse

ZobahRegion · Modern: Brital · 33.94°N, 36.15°E14 verses across 5 books
View all places in 1 Chronicles 11 →

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