King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 16:31 Mean?

1 Chronicles 16:31 in the King James Version says “Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.”

1 Chronicles 16:31 · KJV

Context

29

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.

30

Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved.

31

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.

32

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: let the fields rejoice, and all that is therein.

33

Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the LORD, because he cometh to judge the earth.

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
יִשְׂמְח֤וּ1 of 8

“be glad”

H8055

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

הַשָּׁמַ֙יִם֙2 of 8

“Let the heavens”

H8064

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וְתָגֵ֣ל3 of 8

“rejoice”

H1523

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

הָאָ֔רֶץ4 of 8

“and let the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְיֹֽאמְר֥וּ5 of 8

“and let men say”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

בַגּוֹיִ֖ם6 of 8

“among the nations”

H1471

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

יְהוָ֥ה7 of 8

“The LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מָלָֽךְ׃8 of 8

“reigneth”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

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 16:31 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 16:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 96:10Psalms 97:1Psalms 99:1Revelation 19:6Isaiah 49:13Psalms 93:1-2

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