King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 14:16 Mean?

“David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.”

Context

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.

And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.

David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.

And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **David therefore.**—*And David did.* Samuel adds “so.” **And they smote the host** (camp).—Samuel, “and he smote the Philistines.” (Comp. 1Chronicles 14:11.) **From Gibeon.**—The present Hebrew text of Samuel has Geba. The LXX. agrees with Chronicles in reading Gibeon, but the Targum, Syriac, and Arabic read Geba. Gibeon lay about six miles north-west of Jerusalem, between the valley of Rephaim and Gezer. Isaiah 28:21 supports this reading. **Even to Gazer** (or Gezer).—Gazer is the so-called *pausal* form. Comp. Pharez (Perez) and Japhet ( Yepheth). The text of Samuel has, “until thou come to Gezer;” the Chronicles, “even unto Gezer-ward.” (See Joshua 12:12; 1Kings 9:15-17.)

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 14:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.