King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 16:20 Mean?

1 Chronicles 16:20 in the King James Version says “And when they went from nation to nation, and from one kingdom to another people;” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And when they went from nation to nation, and from one kingdom to another people;”

1 Chronicles 16:20 · KJV

Context

18

Saying, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance; the lot: Heb. the cord

19

When ye were but few , even a few, and strangers in it. few, even: Heb. men of number, etc

20

And when they went from nation to nation, and from one kingdom to another people;

21

He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved kings for their sakes,

22

Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.

Read 1 Chronicles 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Ark arrives in Jerusalem - psalms of thanksgiving. The Hebrew term תּוֹדָה (todah) - thanksgiving is theologically significant here, pointing to Grateful worship as covenant response. 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 Grateful worship as covenant response. 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: Eucharist (thanksgiving) in Christ's new covenant.

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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 Ark arrives in Jerusalem - psalms of thanksgiving 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 Grateful worship as covenant response challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Eucharist (thanksgiving) in Christ's new covenant 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
וַיִּֽתְהַלְּכוּ֙1 of 8

“And when they went”

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

גּ֔וֹי2 of 8

“from nation”

H1471

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

אֶל3 of 8
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

גּ֔וֹי4 of 8

“from nation”

H1471

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

וּמִמַּמְלָכָ֖ה5 of 8

“and from one kingdom”

H4467

dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)

אֶל6 of 8
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

עַ֥ם7 of 8

“people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

אַחֵֽר׃8 of 8

“to another”

H312

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

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 16:20 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 16:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 46:6Genesis 46:3Genesis 12:10Genesis 20:1

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