King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 28:16 Mean?

1 Chronicles 28:16 in the King James Version says “And by weight he gave gold for the tables of shewbread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver:” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 28 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And by weight he gave gold for the tables of shewbread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver:”

1 Chronicles 28:16 · KJV

Context

14

He gave of gold by weight for things of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; silver also for all instruments of silver by weight, for all instruments of every kind of service:

15

Even the weight for the candlesticks of gold, and for their lamps of gold, by weight for every candlestick, and for the lamps thereof: and for the candlesticks of silver by weight, both for the candlestick, and also for the lamps thereof, according to the use of every candlestick.

16

And by weight he gave gold for the tables of shewbread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver:

17

Also pure gold for the fleshhooks, and the bowls, and the cups: and for the golden basons he gave gold by weight for every bason; and likewise silver by weight for every bason of silver:

18

And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.

Read 1 Chronicles 28 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on David's final charge and temple plans. The Hebrew term לֵבָב (levav) - heart/mind is theologically significant here, pointing to Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes. 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 Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes. 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's commands to disciples.

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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 final charge and temple plans 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 Wholehearted devotion to God's purposes challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Christ's commands to disciples 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 · 10 words
וְאֶת1 of 10
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַזָּהָ֥ב2 of 10

“he gave gold”

H2091

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

מִשְׁקָ֛ל3 of 10

“And by weight”

H4948

weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act)

לְשֻׁלְחֲנ֥וֹת4 of 10

“for every table”

H7979

a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal

הַֽמַּעֲרֶ֖כֶת5 of 10

“of shewbread”

H4635

an arrangement, i.e., (concretely) a pile (of loaves)

לְשֻׁלְחֲנ֥וֹת6 of 10

“for every table”

H7979

a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal

לְשֻׁלְחֲנ֥וֹת7 of 10

“for every table”

H7979

a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal

הַכָּֽסֶף׃8 of 10

“and likewise silver”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

לְשֻׁלְחֲנ֥וֹת9 of 10

“for every table”

H7979

a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal

הַכָּֽסֶף׃10 of 10

“and likewise silver”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

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 28:16 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 28:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Chronicles 4:191 Kings 7:48Exodus 25:23-302 Chronicles 4:8

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