1 Chronicles 14:5

KJV

And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ibhar {H2984}, and Elishua {H474}, and Elpalet {H467},

Complete Jewish Bible

Yivchar, Elishua, Elpelet,

Berean Standard Bible

Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet,

American Standard Version

and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpelet,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 14:5 continues the detailed enumeration of sons born to King David in Jerusalem, specifically naming Ibhar, Elishua, and Elpalet. This verse, part of a broader list, serves not merely as a genealogical record but underscores God's abundant blessing upon David's reign, the establishment of his royal house, and the meticulous preservation of the lineage through which the promised Messiah would ultimately come. It highlights the Chronicler's emphasis on the legitimacy and continuity of the Davidic dynasty, a central theme in his theological narrative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Chronicles 14:5 is nestled within a crucial section of the Chronicler's account of David's reign, specifically detailing the consolidation of his power and family in Jerusalem. The preceding verses establish David's anointing as king over all Israel ([1 Chronicles 11:1-3](/1_chronicles/11-1 "1 Chronicles 11:1-3 - David Anointed King")), his capture of Jerusalem and establishment of it as his capital ([1 Chronicles 11:4-9](/1_chronicles/11-4 "1 Chronicles 11:4-9 - David Captures Jerusalem")), and his growing prosperity and recognition from Hiram, king of Tyre ([1 Chronicles 14:1-2](/1_chronicles/14-1 "1 Chronicles 14:1-2 - Hiram's Alliance with David")). Immediately before this verse, [1 Chronicles 14:3](/1_chronicles/14-3 "1 Chronicles 14:3 - David's Wives and Concubines") notes David's taking of more wives and concubines in Jerusalem, leading directly into the list of sons born to him there, which extends through [1 Chronicles 14:7](/1_chronicles/14-7 "1 Chronicles 14:7 - Conclusion of David's Sons List"). This detailed genealogy serves to legitimize David's expanding royal household and to affirm the divine blessing upon his reign, setting the stage for the subsequent accounts of his military victories and the bringing of the ark to Jerusalem. The list has a parallel in [2 Samuel 5:14-16](/2_samuel/5-14 "2 Samuel 5:14-16 - Parallel Account of David's Sons"), with minor variations in spelling, a common occurrence in ancient texts.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the number of a king's sons was a direct indicator of divine favor, royal strength, and the stability of his dynasty. A large male progeny ensured the continuity of the royal line and provided a pool of potential heirs, reducing the likelihood of succession crises. David's establishment in Jerusalem marked a significant turning point, as it became the political and religious capital of the united monarchy. His taking of multiple wives and concubines, though later problematic, was a common practice for kings in that era, aimed at securing alliances and producing numerous heirs to solidify the kingdom. The meticulous listing of these sons in the Chronicler's account reflects the cultural importance placed on genealogy for establishing identity, inheritance, and legitimacy within Israelite society. These names, born in Jerusalem, signify the new phase of David's reign, marked by consolidation and divine blessing in the heart of his kingdom.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, as part of the list of David's sons, contributes significantly to several key themes within 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Blessing and Fruitfulness**, as the numerous sons born to David in Jerusalem are presented as a clear sign of God's favor and prosperity upon his reign and house. This aligns with the Chronicler's overarching emphasis on the blessings that follow obedience to God, as seen in David's initial successes after seeking God's will (e.g., [1 Chronicles 14:10](/1_chronicles/14-10 "1 Chronicles 14:10 - David Inquires of God")). Secondly, the detailed record of David's children underscores the **Historical Record and Legitimacy of the Davidic Dynasty**. The Chronicler, writing for a post-exilic audience, meticulously traces the lineage to affirm the unbroken continuity and divine appointment of the royal house, which was crucial for maintaining hope in God's covenant promises. This genealogical precision provides the foundation for the enduring **Covenant with David**, where God promises an eternal kingdom through his seed ([1 Chronicles 17:11-14](/1_chronicles/17-11 "1 Chronicles 17:11-14 - God's Covenant with David")). Finally, and most profoundly, each son listed, including Ibhar, Elishua, and Elpalet, contributes to the **Foundation for the Messianic Promise**, as the Davidic line is the very channel through which the ultimate King, the Messiah, would eventually come, fulfilling God's ancient promises.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ibhar (Hebrew, _Yibhār'_):** This name means "He chooses" or "choice." While seemingly a simple name, in the context of David's reign, it subtly resonates with God's active choice of David as king ([1 Samuel 16:1-13](/1_samuel/16-1 "1 Samuel 16:1-13 - Samuel Anoints David")) and the establishment of his chosen dynasty. It might also reflect David's own "choice" or preference, but the theological undertone of divine election is prominent throughout the Chronicler's narrative.
* **Elishua (Hebrew, _'Ĕlîšûa'_):** A theophoric name, meaning "My God is salvation" or "God is salvation." This name powerfully encapsulates a central theme of the Chronicler: God's delivering and saving power. It serves as a reminder that David's successes and the security of his kingdom were ultimately rooted in God's provision and salvation, a truth frequently highlighted in David's psalms and prayers (e.g., [Psalm 18:2](/psalm/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is My Rock and My Fortress")).
* **Elpalet (Hebrew, _'Elpāleṭ'_):** Another theophoric name, meaning "God of deliverance" or "God of escape." Similar to Elishua, this name reinforces the theme of divine protection and rescue. It speaks to God's active involvement in David's life, preserving him from his enemies and establishing his house securely. The repetition of "El" (God) in these names emphasizes the divine hand at work in David's family and kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ibhar":** This introduces the first of the three sons named in this specific verse. As part of a longer list, his inclusion signifies his birth during David's reign in Jerusalem, contributing to the growing number of David's legitimate heirs. The Chronicler's purpose in listing him is to meticulously record the royal lineage.
* **"and Elishua":** The second son mentioned, whose name, "My God is salvation," carries significant theological weight. His inclusion highlights the Chronicler's subtle theological messaging through seemingly simple genealogical records, reminding the reader of God's saving work in David's life and dynasty.
* **"and Elpalet":** The third son in this verse, whose name, "God of deliverance," further reinforces the theme of divine protection and rescue. The cumulative effect of these names, particularly Elishua and Elpalet, embeds a quiet testimony to God's faithfulness and active presence within the very fabric of David's family tree. The listing of these sons collectively demonstrates the fruitfulness and expansion of David's house under God's blessing.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 14:5 and its surrounding verses is **Genealogy**. The Chronicler meticulously records the lineage of David's sons, not merely for historical accuracy but for theological purpose. This detailed **Enumeration** serves to establish the legitimacy and divine sanction of the Davidic dynasty, which is central to the Chronicler's post-exilic message of hope and restoration. The **Repetition** of these lists (as seen by comparing with 2 Samuel) underscores their importance and authenticity. Furthermore, the selection of names like Elishua and Elpalet, which are **Theophoric** (containing a divine element, "El"), subtly functions as a form of **Symbolism** or **Allusion**. These names are not accidental; they serve as miniature theological statements, quietly testifying to God's character as "salvation" and "deliverance," thereby embedding divine attributes within the very fabric of the royal lineage. This careful construction reinforces the Chronicler's overarching theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises through the Davidic line.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 14:5, though a simple list of names, is deeply significant for its contribution to the broader theological narrative of God's covenant faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. The meticulous recording of David's sons underscores the divine blessing upon his house and the importance of lineage in God's dealings with Israel. It reinforces the concept that God works through specific individuals and their descendants to bring about His purposes, particularly the promise of an enduring kingdom. This verse is a small but vital thread in the grand tapestry of biblical history, demonstrating God's attention to detail and His sovereign hand in orchestrating the human story towards a climactic fulfillment. The very existence of these sons, whose names often echo divine attributes, serves as a testament to God's active presence and protective care over His chosen king and his burgeoning dynasty.

* [2 Samuel 5:14-16](/2_samuel/5-14 "2 Samuel 5:14-16 - Parallel List of David's Sons Born in Jerusalem")
* [1 Chronicles 17:11-14](/1_chronicles/17-11 "1 Chronicles 17:11-14 - God's Covenant Promise to David's Seed")
* [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly dry lists of names in Scripture, such as those found in 1 Chronicles 14:5, are far from incidental; they are carefully preserved records that speak volumes about God's character and His meticulous plan. This verse reminds us that God is deeply invested in the details of history, orchestrating events and preserving lineages to fulfill His promises. It invites us to consider the profound significance of every individual within God's grand narrative, recognizing that even those who appear in a mere list contribute to a larger divine purpose. For believers today, this passage serves as an encouragement that God's faithfulness extends to every generation and every detail of our lives, just as He was faithful to establish and expand David's house. It calls us to trust in His sovereign oversight, even when our lives feel like a series of ordinary events, knowing that He is weaving them into a beautiful tapestry of His redemptive work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do seemingly minor details, like lists of names, in Scripture reveal God's meticulous planning and faithfulness?**
* **What does the emphasis on lineage in David's family teach us about God's commitment to His covenants and promises?**
* **How can understanding God's blessing on David's fruitfulness encourage our trust in His desire to bless and establish our own lives and families?**

### FAQ

**Why are there slight variations in the names of David's sons between 1 Chronicles and 2 Samuel?**

Answer: The variations in the lists of David's sons (e.g., Elishua in 1 Chronicles 14:5 vs. Elishama in [2 Samuel 5:16](/2_samuel/5-16 "2 Samuel 5:16 - David's Sons List")) are common phenomena in ancient texts and can be attributed to several factors. These include scribal variations or errors in copying over centuries, different spellings of the same name (similar to "John" vs. "Jon"), or the possibility of individuals having multiple names or nicknames. It's also possible that some lists were compiled at different points in David's life, reflecting changes in his household or the inclusion/exclusion of certain sons for specific purposes. For the biblical authors, the overall accuracy of the lineage and its theological significance were paramount, rather than absolute phonetic consistency across all records. These variations do not undermine the historical veracity or theological message but rather reflect the nature of ancient textual transmission.

**What is the theological significance of listing these specific names in 1 Chronicles?**

Answer: The listing of these specific names, including Ibhar, Elishua, and Elpalet, holds significant theological weight for the Chronicler. Firstly, it underscores God's abundant blessing and fruitfulness upon David's reign, indicating divine favor and the establishment of a strong royal house in Jerusalem. Secondly, it meticulously records the legitimate lineage of the Davidic dynasty, which was crucial for the Chronicler's post-exilic audience to maintain hope in God's covenant promises concerning an enduring kingdom. The names themselves, particularly Elishua ("My God is salvation") and Elpalet ("God of deliverance"), also subtly embed theological truths, reminding the reader of God's active involvement, saving power, and protective care over David and his descendants. This detailed genealogy ultimately serves as the historical framework through which God's promise of a Messiah from David's line would be fulfilled, pointing forward to the ultimate King.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly simple listing of David's sons in 1 Chronicles 14:5, including Ibhar, Elishua, and Elpalet, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. This verse is a crucial thread in the meticulously woven tapestry of biblical genealogy that culminates in the birth of the Messiah. God's covenant with David promised an eternal kingdom through his "seed" ([1 Chronicles 17:11-14](/1_chronicles/17-11 "1 Chronicles 17:11-14 - God's Covenant Promise to David's Seed")), and the Chronicler's careful record of David's sons demonstrates God's faithfulness in preserving this lineage. Each name, even those not directly in the Messianic line, contributes to the historical context of a flourishing Davidic house, from which the promised King would emerge. The New Testament explicitly identifies Jesus as the "Son of David" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus, Son of David, King Forever")), emphasizing His direct descent from this royal family. The very names Elishua ("My God is salvation") and Elpalet ("God of deliverance") resonate deeply with the person and work of Jesus, who is God's ultimate salvation and deliverance for humanity ([John 3:16-17](/john/3-16 "John 3:16-17 - God So Loved the World")). Thus, 1 Chronicles 14:5, far from being a mere historical footnote, is a testament to God's precise and unwavering plan, faithfully executed through generations, to bring forth the Lamb of God, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root and Offspring of David, Jesus Christ ([Revelation 22:16](/revelation/22-16 "Revelation 22:16 - Jesus, Root and Offspring of David")), who reigns eternally.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 3:6

Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet,

2 Samuel 5:15

Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia,