King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 22:11 Mean?

“Now, my son, the LORD be with thee; and prosper thou, and build the house of the LORD thy God, as he hath said of thee.”

Context

Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. Solomon: that is, Peaceable

He shall build an house for my name; and he shall be my son, and I will be his father; and I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel for ever.

Now, my son, the LORD be with thee; and prosper thou, and build the house of the LORD thy God, as he hath said of thee.

Only the LORD give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the LORD thy God.

Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the LORD charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **The Lord be with thee.**—See 1Chronicles 9:20. (1Samuel 3:19; 2Kings 18:7 : “The Lord was with him.”) The phrase is the origin of the familiar liturgical formula, “The Lord be with you.” **And prosper thou, and build the house.**—Not a command, but a wish, *i.e.,* mayest thou prosper and build. The verb “prosper” (literally, *carry through, make succeed*) is used transitively in 2Chronicles 7:11 and Genesis 24:40. **As he hath said of** (upon) **thee.**—This phrase (*dibbèr ‘al*) is specially used of Divine threats and promises. (See Genesis 18:19; Isaiah 37:22; and comp. 1Chronicles 22:8, above: “And the word of the Lord became upon me.”)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 22:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.