1 Chronicles 14:14

Translation
King James Version
Therefore David enquired again of God; and God said unto him, Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
Therefore David H1732 enquired H7592 again of God H430; and God H430 said H559 unto him, Go not up H5927 after H310 them; turn away H5437 from them, and come H935 upon them over against H4136 the mulberry trees H1057.
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
David consulted God again, but God told him, "Don't attack them! Turn away from them, and engage them opposite the balsam trees.
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.
Ask
American Standard Version
And David inquired again of God; and God said unto him, Thou shalt not go up after them: turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry-trees.
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
David inquired again of God; and God said to him, “You shall not go up after them. Turn away from them, and come on them over against the mulberry trees.
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when Dauid asked againe counsell at God, God said to him, Thou shalt not goe vp after them, but turne away from them, that thou mayest come vpon them ouer against the mulberie trees.
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
and David asketh again of God, and God saith to him, `Do not go up after them, turn round from them, and thou hast come to them from over-against the mulberries;
Ask
See also
1 Chronicles 14:10John 9:6John 9:7Joshua 8:2Joshua 8:7Psalms 27:4
See on the biblical-era map
The Ark Recovered
The Ark Recovered View full PDF

Map © Biblica Open Bible Maps · CC BY-SA 4.0

In the KJVVerse 10,789 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Chronicles 14:14 details King David's second critical inquiry of God regarding military strategy against the regrouped Philistines. Despite having recently secured a significant victory, David demonstrates profound humility and unwavering dependence, seeking specific divine counsel rather than relying on past success or human wisdom. God responds with a precise and unconventional command: to forgo a direct frontal assault, instead executing a flanking maneuver, attacking "over against the mulberry trees," which implies a divinely appointed signal for the opportune moment. This verse powerfully illustrates God's active, personal involvement in the affairs of His people, His infinite wisdom in tailoring unique strategies, and the paramount importance of obedient reliance on His specific guidance for every new challenge.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of King David's rise and the consolidation of his reign in Jerusalem, following his anointing as king over all Israel. Immediately preceding this account, 1 Chronicles 14:8-12 recounts David's initial, decisive victory over the Philistines in the Valley of Rephaim, a triumph explicitly achieved only after he had "enquired of God" (1 Chronicles 14:10). The Philistines, however, were a persistent and formidable adversary, and their swift regrouping for a second invasion (1 Chronicles 14:13) underscores their determination to challenge David's nascent kingdom. David's decision to "enquire again of God" (1 Chronicles 14:14) establishes a crucial pattern of his leadership: a consistent, humble reliance on divine guidance, even in the wake of previous success. This narrative thread starkly contrasts with leaders who might grow complacent or self-reliant after initial victories, emphasizing David's deep reverence for God's sovereignty in all matters, especially warfare. The parallel account in 2 Samuel 5:17-25 provides additional, complementary details, particularly regarding the "sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees" as the divine signal.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: David's early reign was characterized by ongoing military challenges as he sought to secure Israel's borders and establish its dominance in the region. The Philistines, a powerful seafaring people who had settled on the southwestern coast of Canaan, represented the most significant external threat to Israel throughout the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Their military superiority, particularly in iron weaponry and organized warfare, often gave them a formidable advantage over the Israelite tribes. In the ancient Near East, it was common for leaders to seek divine omens, prophecies, or counsel before battle, often through various religious functionaries or diviners. David, however, consistently sought direct counsel from Yahweh, the God of Israel, through legitimate means (likely via the Urim and Thummim or direct prophetic revelation), demonstrating a unique and personal relationship with the Lord that set him apart from other rulers. The Valley of Rephaim, where these battles took place, was a fertile plain southwest of Jerusalem, serving as a strategic location for both defense and invasion routes into the Judean heartland. The mention of "mulberry trees" (or balsam trees, as in the parallel account) points to specific geographical features that God incorporated into His strategic plan, indicating a highly localized and precise divine intervention.
  • Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of Persistent Divine Guidance. David's repeated inquiry underscores that past victories do not negate the ongoing need for God's specific direction. This highlights God's accessibility and His willingness to guide His people through every new challenge, echoing the wisdom found in Proverbs 3:5-6. Secondly, the passage emphasizes Strategic Obedience. God's response is not a general blessing but a highly specific, even unconventional, military strategy ("Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees"). David's willingness to follow this counter-intuitive plan, even when it differed from the previously successful strategy, demonstrates the paramount importance of obedience to God's precise instructions. This showcases the theme of God's Varied Methods, teaching that God's wisdom is infinite and He tailors His guidance to the unique circumstances of each situation. Believers should not expect God to always act in the same way, but rather remain open to His new and often surprising directions, recognizing that His ways are higher than our ways.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • enquired (Hebrew, shâʼal', H7592): This verb (H7592, שָׁאַל) signifies to ask, to inquire, to consult, or to seek counsel. In the context of 1 Chronicles, it consistently describes David's posture of humility and dependence before God, particularly in matters of warfare and national leadership. The repetition of this act ("enquired again") underscores that David did not presume upon God's favor or his own military prowess after a previous victory, but continually sought specific divine direction. This word highlights the active, intentional effort David made to submit his plans to God's will and receive divine strategy.
  • God (Hebrew, ʼĕlôhîym', H430): This plural noun (H430, אֱלֹהִים) refers to the supreme God, Yahweh, in this context. Its use emphasizes the divine authority and sovereignty behind the counsel David receives. David is not consulting a mere oracle or human advisor, but the very Creator and ruler of the universe. The repetition of "God" in the verse ("enquired again of God; and God said unto him") reinforces the direct, personal, and authoritative nature of the divine communication, highlighting God's active involvement in the details of David's life and the nation's affairs.
  • mulberry trees (Hebrew, bâkâʼ', H1057): The Hebrew word (H1057, בְּכָאִים) is often translated as "mulberry trees" or "balsam trees." The precise botanical identification is debated among scholars, with some suggesting it refers to a type of tree that makes a distinct rustling or crackling sound when wind passes through its leaves. The significance of this term lies not just in the type of tree, but in its role as a specific landmark and, more importantly, a potential source of a divine sign. The parallel account in 2 Samuel 5:24 clarifies that "when you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, then you shall go out to battle, for then the Lord has gone out before you to strike the army of the Philistines." This indicates that the "mulberry trees" were crucial to a supernatural, auditory signal that would confirm God's presence and the opportune moment for David to attack, emphasizing God's direct and sensory involvement in the timing and execution of David's strategy.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Therefore David enquired again of God;": This clause immediately establishes David's consistent and commendable posture of humble dependence on the Lord. The "therefore" links this action directly to the Philistines' renewed invasion, indicating that David's first instinct was not to rely on his recent success, human military intelligence, or conventional tactics, but to return to the ultimate source of his previous victory—God Himself. The phrase "enquired again" is crucial, demonstrating a pattern of seeking specific divine counsel for each new challenge, rather than assuming past strategies would suffice or that God's guidance was a one-time event. It highlights David's ongoing spiritual discipline and his recognition of God's continuous sovereignty.
  • "and God said unto him, Go not up after them;": This is God's direct, specific, and notably counter-intuitive command. Unlike the previous battle where David was explicitly told to "go up" and engage directly (1 Chronicles 14:10), here God instructs him not to engage directly or pursue them in the same frontal manner. This highlights God's sovereign wisdom, which often transcends human logic, conventional military tactics, or even previously successful strategies. It powerfully teaches that God's methods are not static; He adapts His strategy to the unique circumstances, requiring flexible and unwavering obedience from His people.
  • "turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.": This final clause provides the alternative, precise strategic instruction. Instead of a direct frontal assault, David is commanded to execute a flanking maneuver, approaching the enemy from a different, unexpected direction. The phrase "over against the mulberry trees" serves as a specific geographical marker, but as clarified by the parallel account in 2 Samuel 5:24, it also points to the location where a divine sign (the sound in the treetops) would manifest. This detail underscores God's meticulous planning and His provision of a clear, supernatural signal for the exact timing of the attack, ensuring David's success was undeniably a result of divine intervention and not human ingenuity.

Literary Devices

The verse employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning and underscore its theological message. Repetition is evident in David's act of "enquiring again of God," echoing his initial inquiry in 1 Chronicles 14:10. This repetition emphasizes David's consistent reliance on the Lord and the ongoing, dynamic nature of divine guidance. There is a clear contrast in God's strategy: "Go not up after them" directly opposes the previous command to "go up" (1 Chronicles 14:10). This contrast highlights God's infinite wisdom and His ability to provide varied, tailored strategies for different situations, preventing a formulaic or predictable approach to divine leading. The "mulberry trees" function as a form of symbolism or sign, particularly when understood in light of the parallel account (2 Samuel 5:24) which describes a "sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees." This auditory phenomenon serves as a supernatural omen or divine signal, indicating God's active presence, His leading the charge, and the precise timing for David's attack. This specific, sensory sign underscores God's direct and miraculous involvement in the battle, ensuring that the victory is attributed solely to Him. Finally, the direct speech from God ("God said unto him...") exemplifies divine command, showcasing God's authoritative, personal, and intentional communication with His chosen leader.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 14:14 profoundly illustrates the theological truth of God's active and sovereign involvement in the specific details of human affairs, particularly for those who humbly seek His counsel. It teaches that God is not a distant deity but one who provides precise, tailored guidance, even in military strategy. This passage challenges the notion of self-sufficiency, even after past successes, calling believers to a continuous posture of dependence. It highlights that God's wisdom often transcends human logic or conventional approaches, requiring faith and obedience to unconventional instructions. The divine strategy, culminating in a supernatural sign, underscores that ultimate victory belongs to the Lord, and His methods are perfect, designed to bring Him glory and secure the welfare of His people. This narrative serves as a powerful testament to the Lord's intimate care and strategic genius on behalf of His covenant people.

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: Encourages complete reliance on God and acknowledging Him in all ways for clear paths.
  • Isaiah 55:8-9: Reinforces that God's thoughts and ways are infinitely superior to human understanding, explaining why His strategies might seem counter-intuitive.
  • Psalm 32:8: Assures believers that God will instruct and teach them in the way they should go, guiding them with His eye.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

David's repeated inquiry in 1 Chronicles 14:14 offers profound and timeless lessons for contemporary believers. It challenges us to cultivate a lifestyle of continuous, humble dependence on God, recognizing that past victories, accumulated wisdom, or even a track record of success do not negate the need for fresh, specific guidance in every new situation. In a world that often prizes self-reliance, strategic planning, and predictable outcomes, David's example reminds us that true success, particularly in spiritual battles and life's complexities, flows from discerning and obeying God's unique instructions, even when they seem unconventional, counter-intuitive, or require a departure from previous methods. We are called to be attentive to God's voice, whether through His inspired Word, the prompting of His Holy Spirit, the wise counsel of others, or even through specific circumstances, and to patiently wait for His timing and His signs. Just as God provided a tailored strategy for David's specific battle, He offers specific wisdom for our personal struggles, family decisions, professional endeavors, and ministry challenges. Our spiritual growth and effectiveness are often tied directly to our willingness to step out in faith on His precise, sometimes surprising, directives, trusting that His plan is always perfect.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what areas of your life are you prone to rely on past successes, established routines, or your own wisdom, rather than seeking God's fresh, specific guidance?
  • Can you recall a time when God's direction for you seemed counter-intuitive, required a change of plans, or differed significantly from what you expected? How did you respond, and what did you learn?
  • What "mulberry trees" or specific signs might God be using to guide you in your current circumstances, and are you actively attentive to them?
  • How can you cultivate a deeper, more consistent habit of "enquiring of God" in your daily life, moving beyond general prayer to seeking specific direction?

FAQ

Why did God give David a different strategy for this battle than the previous one?

Answer: God gave David a different strategy because His wisdom is infinite and His methods are not limited or predictable. The first battle (1 Chronicles 14:8-12) may have required a direct assault, while this second engagement called for a flanking maneuver and a specific divine signal. This teaches us that God tailors His guidance to the unique circumstances of each situation. He doesn't operate by a fixed formula but by perfect, dynamic wisdom. This also served to continually test David's faith and obedience, ensuring he didn't rely on a past "formula" but remained dependent on God's specific, fresh instruction for each new challenge. It underscores that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are His ways our ways.

What is the significance of the "mulberry trees" in God's instruction?

Answer: The "mulberry trees" (or balsam trees, as in the parallel account in 2 Samuel 5:24) were significant for two primary reasons. Firstly, they served as a specific geographical landmark for David's flanking maneuver, providing a clear point of reference for his attack. Secondly, and more importantly, they were the location where God would provide a supernatural signal: "the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees." This auditory sign was God's direct confirmation that He had "gone out before" David to strike the Philistine army. It was a divine indicator for the opportune moment to attack, emphasizing God's direct involvement in the timing and execution of David's strategy, ensuring that the victory was clearly attributed to His power and not to David's military genius.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

David's consistent reliance on God for specific battle strategies in 1 Chronicles 14:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied absolute dependence on the Father. Just as David "enquired again of God," Jesus consistently lived in perfect submission to the Father's will, declaring, "I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge... for I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me." God's specific, often counter-intuitive, strategy for David foreshadows the divine wisdom inherent in Christ, who is "the wisdom of God and the power of God." The "mulberry trees" and the supernatural sound signaling God's presence and timing point to Christ as our ultimate commander, who leads us in spiritual warfare not by human might or predictable strategy, but by the power and precise guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit, like the unseen wind in the trees, works in unseen yet powerful ways, guiding believers into all truth and empowering them for service, as Jesus promised in John 16:13. Ultimately, David's victory over the Philistines, orchestrated by God's unique plan, foreshadows Christ's decisive and complete victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness, a triumph achieved not through conventional human means but through the cross, which to the world seemed foolish but was God's perfect, divine strategy for salvation and the establishment of His eternal kingdom (Colossians 2:15).

Copy as

Commentary on 1 Chronicles 14 verses 8–17

This narrative of David's triumph over the Philistines is much the same with that, Sa2 5:17, etc. 1. Let the attack which the Philistines made upon David forbid us to be secure in any settlement or advancement, and engage us to expect molestation in this world. When we are most easy something or other may come to be a terror or vexation to us. Christ's kingdom will thus be insulted by the serpent's seed, especially when it makes any advances. 2. Let David's enquiry of God, once and again, upon occasion of the Philistines' invading him, direct us in all our ways to acknowledge God - in distress to fly to him, when we are wronged to appeal to him, and, when we know not what to do, to ask counsel at his oracles, to put ourselves under his direction, and to beg of him to show us the right way. 3. Let David's success encourage us to resist our spiritual enemies, in observance of divine directions and dependence on divine strength. Resist the devil, and he shall flee as the Philistines did before David. 4. Let the sound of the going in the tops of the mulberry trees direct us to attend God's motions both in his providence and in the influences of his Spirit. When we perceive God to go before us let us gird up our loins, gird on our armour, and follow him. 5. Let David's burning the gods of the Philistines, when they fell into his hands, teach us a holy indignation against idolatry and all the remains of it. 6. Let David's thankful acknowledgment of the hand of God in his successes direct us to bring all our sacrifices of praise to God's altar. Not unto us, O Lord! not unto us, but to thy name give glory. 7. Let the reputation which David obtained, not only in his kingdom, but among his neighbours, be looked upon as a type and figure of the exalted honour of the Son of David (Ch1 14:17): The fame of David went out into all lands; he was generally talked of, and admired by all people, and the Lord brought the fear of him upon all nations. All looked upon him as a formidable enemy and a desirable ally. Thus has God highly exalted our Redeemer, and given him a name above every name.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 8–17. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as

Continue studying 1 Chronicles 14:14 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.