King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 14:8 Mean?

“And when the Philistines heard that David was anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to seek David. And David heard of it, and went out against them.”

Context

And Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

And Elishama, and Beeliada, and Eliphalet. Beeliada: also called, Eliada 2.Sam.5.16.

And when the Philistines heard that David was anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to seek David. And David heard of it, and went out against them.

And the Philistines came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.

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.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

**II.—DAVID’S TWO VICTORIES OVER THE PHILIS TINES** (1Chronicles 14:8-16; 2Samuel 5:17-25). Although placed here after the account of the palace building, this invasion must have occurred earlier in the reign of David, and probably soon after the storming of Jerusalem, a proof of capacity, which would rouse the Philistines to combined action against the new sovereign of Israel. (Comp. 1 Samuel 13) (8) **David was anointed.**—Samuel, “they had anointed David.” The verb in each case is *mashah*, from which is derived *Mashȋah*=*Messiah*. **Over all Israel.**—The word “all,” omitted in Samuel, contrasts David’s second election with his first as king of Judah only. **To seek David.**—With hostile intent. The verb is so used in 1Samuel 26:2. **Went out against them.**—Literally, *before them* (1Chronicles 12:17). Samuel has, “went down to the stronghold.” The term “stronghold” (*měçûdāh*) designates the “castle of Zion” (1Chronicles 11:5; 1Chronicles 11:7), and also David’s old refuge, the rock and cave of Adullam, in the valley of Elah. The latter is probably intended here. As on former occasions, the Philistine forces were likely to choose the route through the valley of Elah (coınp. 1Samuel 18:1-2), and David “went down” from Zion “to meet them” there.

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 14:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.