King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 15:1 Mean?

“And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.”

Context

And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.

Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever. None: Heb. It is not to carry the ark of God, but for the Levites

And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(1) **And David made him houses.**—Or, *and he made* (*i.e.,* finished) *a palace* (plural, intensive) *for himself,* referring back to 1Chronicles 14:1. Others think of fresh buildings required for his additional wives, which is less likely. David had the example of Egyptian and Babylonian monarchs for his palace-building. **City of David.**—Castle of Zion (1Chronicles 11:5; 1Chronicles 11:7). **And prepared a place for the ark.**—Comp. 2Samuel 6:17. **A place.**—Probably within the palace precincts. **Pitched** (or spread) **for it a tent** (or tabernacle).—The old one was at Gibeon, and Zadok ministered as high priest therein (1Chronicles 16:39). Abiathar, of the house of Ithamar, who had hitherto followed the fortunes of David, probably ministered before the Ark in the new tent.

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 15:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.