King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 28:18 Mean?

1 Chronicles 28:18 in the King James Version says “And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spre...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 28 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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.”

1 Chronicles 28:18 · KJV

Context

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.

19

All this, said David, the LORD made me understand in writing by his hand upon me, even all the works of this pattern.

20

And David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.

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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 · 15 words
וּלְמִזְבַּ֧ח1 of 15

“And for the altar”

H4196

an altar

הַקְּטֹ֛רֶת2 of 15

“of incense”

H7004

a fumigation

זָהָב֙3 of 15

“and gold”

H2091

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

מְזֻקָּ֖ק4 of 15

“refined”

H2212

to strain, (figuratively) extract, clarify

בַּמִּשְׁקָ֑ל5 of 15

“by weight”

H4948

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

וּלְתַבְנִ֣ית6 of 15

“for the pattern”

H8403

structure; by implication, a model, resemblance

הַמֶּרְכָּבָ֗ה7 of 15

“of the chariot”

H4818

a chariot

הַכְּרוּבִ֤ים8 of 15

“of the cherubims”

H3742

a cherub or imaginary figure

זָהָב֙9 of 15

“and gold”

H2091

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

לְפֹ֣רְשִׂ֔ים10 of 15

“that spread out”

H6566

to break apart, disperse, etc

וְסֹֽכְכִ֖ים11 of 15

“their wings and covered”

H5526

properly, to entwine as a screen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, (figuratively) protect

עַל12 of 15
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

אֲר֥וֹן13 of 15

“the ark”

H727

a box

בְּרִית14 of 15

“of the covenant”

H1285

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

יְהוָֽה׃15 of 15

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

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 28:18 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 28:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 25:18-22Exodus 30:1-101 Kings 6:23-30Psalms 68:17Ezekiel 10:2-221 Samuel 4:4

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