King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 21:6 Mean?

1 Chronicles 21:6 in the King James Version says “But Levi and Benjamin counted he not among them: for the king's word was abominable to Joab.” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But Levi and Benjamin counted he not among them: for the king's word was abominable to Joab.”

1 Chronicles 21:6 · KJV

Context

4

Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem.

5

And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all they of Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah was four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.

6

But Levi and Benjamin counted he not among them: for the king's word was abominable to Joab.

7

And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel. And: Heb. And it was evil in the eyes of the LORD concerning this thing

8

And David said unto God, I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, do away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly.

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
וְלֵוִי֙1 of 11

“But Levi”

H3878

levi, a son of jacob

וּבִנְיָמִ֔ן2 of 11

“and Benjamin”

H1144

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

לֹ֥א3 of 11
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

פָקַ֖ד4 of 11

“counted”

H6485

to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc

בְּתוֹכָ֑ם5 of 11

“he not among”

H8432

a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center

כִּֽי6 of 11
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

נִתְעַ֥ב7 of 11

“was abominable”

H8581

to loathe, i.e., (morally) detest

דְּבַר8 of 11

“word”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ9 of 11

“them for the king's”

H4428

a king

אֶת10 of 11
H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

יוֹאָֽב׃11 of 11

“to Joab”

H3097

joab, the name of three israelites

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 21:6 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 21:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 27:24Numbers 1:47-492 Samuel 11:15-212 Samuel 3:272 Samuel 20:9-10

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