King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 21:11 Mean?

1 Chronicles 21:11 in the King James Version says “So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee Choose: Heb. Take to thee” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee Choose: Heb. Take to thee”

1 Chronicles 21:11 · KJV

Context

9

And the LORD spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying,

10

Go and tell David, saying, Thus saith the LORD, I offer thee three things: choose thee one of them, that I may do it unto thee. offer: Heb. stretch out

11

So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee Choose: Heb. Take to thee

12

Either three years' famine; or three months to be destroyed before thy foes, while that the sword of thine enemies overtaketh thee; or else three days the sword of the LORD, even the pestilence, in the land, and the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore advise thyself what word I shall bring again to him that sent me.

13

And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let me fall now into the hand of the LORD; for very great are his mercies: but let me not fall into the hand of man. very great: or, very many

Read 1 Chronicles 21 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on David's census and divine judgment. The Hebrew term חֵטְא (chet) - sin/offense is theologically significant here, pointing to Even godly leaders sin and face consequences. 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 Even godly leaders sin and face consequences. 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: Christ bears judgment for sin on our behalf.

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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 David's census and divine judgment 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 Even godly leaders sin and face consequences challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ bears judgment for sin on our behalf 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 · 11 words
וַיָּ֥בֹא1 of 11

“came”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

גָ֖ד2 of 11

“So Gad”

H1410

gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet

אֶל3 of 11
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

דָּוִ֑יד4 of 11

“to David”

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

אָמַ֥ר5 of 11

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

ל֛וֹ6 of 11
H0
כֹּֽה7 of 11
H3541

properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now

אָמַ֥ר8 of 11

“and said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָ֖ה9 of 11

“the LORD”

H3068

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

קַבֶּל10 of 11

“Choose”

H6901

to admit, i.e., take (literally or figuratively)

לָֽךְ׃11 of 11
H0

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 21:11 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 21:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 19:20

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