King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 14:12 Mean?

1 Chronicles 14:12 in the King James Version says “And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.”

1 Chronicles 14:12 · KJV

Context

10

And David enquired of God, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines? and wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into thine hand.

11

So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baalperazim. Baalperazim: that is, A place of breaches

12

And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.

13

And the Philistines yet again spread themselves abroad in the valley.

14

Therefore David enquired again of God; and God said unto him, Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.

Read 1 Chronicles 14 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on David's kingdom established - royal success. The Hebrew term מַמְלָכָה (mamlakah) - kingdom is theologically significant here, pointing to God establishes and blesses obedient leaders. 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 establishes and blesses obedient leaders. 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: Kingdom of God inaugurated by Christ.

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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's kingdom established - royal success 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 establishes and blesses obedient leaders challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Kingdom of God inaugurated by Christ 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?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיַּ֥עַזְבוּ1 of 8

“And when they had left”

H5800

to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc

שָׁ֖ם2 of 8
H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

אֶת3 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

אֱלֹֽהֵיהֶ֑ם4 of 8

“their gods”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וַיֹּ֣אמֶר5 of 8

“gave a commandment”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

דָּוִ֔יד6 of 8

“there David”

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

וַיִּשָּֽׂרְפ֖וּ7 of 8

“and they were burned”

H8313

to be (causatively, set) on fire

בָּאֵֽשׁ׃8 of 8

“with fire”

H784

fire (literally or figuratively)

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 14:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 14:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 32:20Deuteronomy 7:52 Kings 19:181 Samuel 5:2-6Deuteronomy 7:25Exodus 12:12

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