King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 21:29 Mean?

1 Chronicles 21:29 in the King James Version says “For the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses made in the wilderness, and the altar of the burnt offering, were at that se...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“For the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses made in the wilderness, and the altar of the burnt offering, were at that season in the high place at Gibeon.”

1 Chronicles 21:29 · KJV

Context

27

And the LORD commanded the angel; and he put up his sword again into the sheath thereof.

28

At that time when David saw that the LORD had answered him in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite, then he sacrificed there.

29

For the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses made in the wilderness, and the altar of the burnt offering, were at that season in the high place at Gibeon.

30

But David could not go before it to enquire of God: for he was afraid because of the sword of the angel of the LORD.

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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 · 12 words
וּמִשְׁכַּ֣ן1 of 12

“For the tabernacle”

H4908

a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w

יְ֠הוָה2 of 12

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

אֲשֶׁר3 of 12
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשָׂ֨ה4 of 12

“made”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מֹשֶׁ֧ה5 of 12

“which Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

בַמִּדְבָּ֛ר6 of 12

“in the wilderness”

H4057

a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert

וּמִזְבַּ֥ח7 of 12

“and the altar”

H4196

an altar

הָֽעוֹלָ֖ה8 of 12

“of the burnt offering”

H5930

a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)

בָּעֵ֣ת9 of 12

“were at that season”

H6256

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

הַהִ֑יא10 of 12
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

בַּבָּמָ֖ה11 of 12

“in the high place”

H1116

an elevation

בְּגִבְעֽוֹן׃12 of 12

“at Gibeon”

H1391

gibon, a place in palestine

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 21:29 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 21:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 16:392 Chronicles 1:132 Chronicles 1:31 Kings 3:4-15Exodus 40:1-38

Places in This Verse

GibeonSettlement · Modern: El Jib · 31.85°N, 35.18°E39 verses across 7 books
View all places in 1 Chronicles 21 →

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