What number verse is 1 Chronicles 14:5 in the Bible?

1 Chronicles 14:5 is the 10,780th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — 1 Chronicles 14:5 sits at position 10,780.

Translation

King James Version

And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,

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KJV (with Strong's)

And Ibhar ^H2984, and Elishua ^H474, and Elpalet ^H467,

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Complete Jewish Bible

Yivchar, Elishua, Elpelet,

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Berean Standard Bible

Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet,

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American Standard Version

and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpelet,

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World English Bible Messianic

and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpelet,

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,

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Young's Literal Translation

and Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

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

CONTEXT

Literary Context: 1 Chronicles 14:5 is situated within a pivotal section of the Chronicler's narrative concerning the consolidation of David's power and family in Jerusalem. The preceding chapters detail David's anointing as king over all Israel and Judah, his capture of Jerusalem, and its establishment as the political and religious capital of the united monarchy, as seen in 1 Chronicles 11:1-9. Chapter 14 opens with Hiram, king of Tyre, acknowledging David's kingship by providing materials and craftsmen for his palace, a sign of international recognition and divine favor (1 Chronicles 14:1-2). Immediately prior to this verse, 1 Chronicles 14:3 notes David's taking of more wives and concubines in Jerusalem, which directly precedes the comprehensive list of sons born to him there, extending through 1 Chronicles 14:7. This detailed genealogy serves to legitimize David's expanding royal household and to affirm the divine blessing upon his reign, setting the stage for subsequent accounts of his military victories and the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. A parallel account of these sons, with minor variations, is found in 2 Samuel 5:14-16, indicating the importance of this record in both historical and theological traditions.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, the size and health of a king's male progeny were direct indicators of divine favor, royal strength, and the stability of his dynasty. A large number of sons ensured the continuity of the royal line and provided a pool of potential heirs, thereby reducing the likelihood of succession crises and internal strife. David's establishment in Jerusalem marked a significant turning point, as it became the unified political and religious capital of Israel. His practice of taking multiple wives and concubines, though later problematic from a prophetic perspective, was a common custom for kings in that era, often aimed at securing political alliances and producing numerous heirs to solidify the kingdom's future. The meticulous listing of these sons in the Chronicler's account reflects the profound cultural importance placed on genealogy for establishing identity, inheritance rights, and legitimacy within Israelite society. These names, specifically noted as being born in Jerusalem, signify the new phase of David's reign, characterized by consolidation, divine blessing, and the flourishing of his house in the heart of his kingdom.
Key Themes: This verse, as an integral part of the list of David's sons, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of 1 Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Blessing and Fruitfulness, as the numerous sons born to David in Jerusalem are presented as a tangible sign of God's favor and prosperity upon his reign and his royal house. This aligns with the Chronicler's consistent emphasis on the blessings that accompany obedience and faithfulness to God, as seen in David's successes after seeking God's will, such as in 1 Chronicles 14:10. 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 this lineage to affirm the unbroken continuity and divine appointment of the royal house, which was crucial for maintaining hope in God's enduring covenant promises. This genealogical precision provides the foundational framework for the enduring Covenant with David, where God promises an eternal kingdom through his seed, as eloquently articulated in 1 Chronicles 17:11-14. 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 and unwavering promises.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Ibhar (Hebrew, Yibchar', H2984): This name, derived from the Hebrew root meaning "to choose," translates to "He chooses" or "choice." In the context of David's reign, Ibhar's name subtly resonates with God's sovereign choice of David as king over Israel, as recounted in 1 Samuel 16:1-13. It also reflects the establishment of David's chosen dynasty, implying divine election and favor. While it could also refer to David's own preference, the theological undertone of divine selection is prominent throughout the Chronicler's narrative, emphasizing God's active hand in the affairs of His people and their leaders.
Elishua (Hebrew, ʼĔlîyshûwaʻ', H474): A significant theophoric name, meaning "My God is salvation" or "God is salvation." This name powerfully encapsulates a central theme of the Chronicler's work: God's delivering and saving power. It serves as a profound reminder that David's numerous successes, the security of his kingdom, and the very existence of his thriving family were ultimately rooted in God's provision and salvation. This truth is frequently echoed in David's own expressions of faith and praise, such as in Psalm 18:2, where he proclaims the Lord as his deliverer.
Elpalet (Hebrew, ʼĔlîypheleṭ', H467): Another potent theophoric name, meaning "God of deliverance" or "God of escape." Similar to Elishua, this name reinforces the pervasive theme of divine protection, rescue, and intervention. It speaks to God's active involvement in David's life, preserving him from his many enemies and establishing his house securely against all odds. The repetition of "El" (God) in both Elishua and Elpalet emphasizes the divine hand at work, not just in David's public victories, but intimately within the very fabric of his family and the future of his kingdom. These names are miniature theological statements embedded within the royal genealogy.

Verse Breakdown

"And Ibhar": This phrase introduces the first of the three sons specifically named in this verse, continuing the list of David's legitimate heirs born in Jerusalem. His inclusion signifies the ongoing expansion and fruitfulness of David's royal household, meticulously recorded by the Chronicler to underscore the divine blessing upon the king.
"and Elishua": The second son mentioned, whose name, "My God is salvation," carries profound theological weight. His inclusion highlights the Chronicler's subtle yet powerful theological messaging embedded within seemingly straightforward genealogical records, serving as a constant reminder to the reader of God's saving work in David's life and the ongoing security of his dynasty.
"and Elpalet": The third son in this verse, whose name, "God of deliverance," further reinforces the overarching theme of divine protection and rescue that characterizes David's reign. The cumulative effect of these names, particularly the theophoric Elishua and Elpalet, embeds a quiet yet powerful testimony to God's faithfulness and active presence within the very fabric of David's family tree. The listing of these sons collectively serves as concrete evidence of the fruitfulness and expansion of David's house under God's sovereign 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 profound theological purpose. This detailed Enumeration serves to establish the legitimacy, divine sanction, and flourishing of the Davidic dynasty, which is absolutely central to the Chronicler's post-exilic message of hope, restoration, and the enduring nature of God's covenant promises. The Repetition of these lists (as seen by comparing with the parallel account in 2 Samuel) underscores their vital importance and authenticity within the sacred history. Furthermore, the deliberate selection of names like Elishua and Elpalet, which are Theophoric (meaning they contain a divine element, "El," referring to God), subtly functions as a powerful form of Symbolism and 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 and God's active involvement within the very fabric of the royal lineage. This careful literary construction reinforces the Chronicler's overarching theme of God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises through the Davidic line.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

1 Chronicles 14:5, though a simple list of names, holds deep significance 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 profound 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 and a perpetual dynasty. 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, protective care, and unwavering commitment over His chosen king and his burgeoning dynasty, ensuring the continuity of the royal line from which the Messiah would one day come.

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 across generations. 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 a powerful 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 or our contributions seem small, knowing that He is weaving them into a beautiful, purposeful tapestry of His redemptive work, ultimately pointing to Christ.

Questions for Reflection

How do seemingly minor details, like lists of names, in Scripture reveal God's meticulous planning and unwavering faithfulness across generations?
What does the emphasis on lineage in David's family teach us about God's commitment to His covenants and the certainty of His promises?
How can understanding God's blessing on David's fruitfulness and the establishment of his house encourage our trust in His desire to bless and establish our own lives and families in accordance with His will?

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) are common phenomena in ancient texts and can be attributed to several factors. These include scribal variations or errors that occurred during centuries of copying manuscripts, different spellings of the same name (similar to how "John" might be spelled "Jon" or "Jonathan"), or the possibility of individuals having multiple names or nicknames throughout their lives. It is also plausible 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 literary or theological purposes. For the biblical authors, the overall accuracy of the lineage and its profound 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 natural processes 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's overarching message. Firstly, it powerfully underscores God's abundant blessing and fruitfulness upon David's reign, indicating divine favor and the establishment of a strong, legitimate 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 and a perpetual line of kings. The names themselves, particularly Elishua ("My God is salvation") and Elpalet ("God of deliverance"), also subtly embed profound 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, Jesus Christ.

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 the person and work of 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), and the Chronicler's careful record of David's sons demonstrates God's unwavering 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 and Luke 1:32-33), emphasizing His direct descent from this royal family and establishing His rightful claim to the throne. Furthermore, the very names Elishua ("My God is salvation") and Elpalet ("God of deliverance") resonate deeply with the person and redemptive work of Jesus, who is God's ultimate salvation and deliverance for humanity (John 3:16-17). He is the one who delivers us from the domain of darkness and transfers us to the kingdom of His beloved Son (Colossians 1:13-14). Thus, 1 Chronicles 14:5, far from being a mere historical footnote, stands as 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), who reigns eternally over His people.

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Commentary on 1 Chronicles 14 verses 1–7

1 ¶ Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and timber of cedars, with masons and carpenters, to build him an house.

2 And David perceived that the LORD had confirmed him king over Israel, for his kingdom was lifted up on high, because of his people Israel.

3 And David took more wives at Jerusalem: and David begat more sons and daughters.

4 Now these are the names of his children which he had in Jerusalem; Shammua, and Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon,

5 And Ibhar, and Elishua, and Elpalet,

6 And Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia,

7 And Elishama, and Beeliada, and Eliphalet.

We may observe here, 1. There is no man that has such a sufficiency in himself but he has need of his neighbours and has reason to be thankful for their help: David had a very large kingdom, Hiram a very little one; yet David could not build himself a house to his mind unless Hiram furnished him with both workmen and materials, Ch1 14:1. This is a reason why we should despise none, but, as we have opportunity, be obliging to all. 2. It is a great satisfaction to a wise man to be settled, and to a good man to see the special providences of God in his settlement. The people had made David king; but he could not be easy, nor think himself happy, till he perceived that the Lord had confirmed him king over Israel, Ch1 14:2. "Who shall unfix me if God hath fixed me?" 3. We must look upon all our advancements as designed for our usefulness. David's kingdom was lifted up on high, not for his own sake, that he might look great, but because of his people Israel, that he might be a guide and protector to them. We are blessed in order that we may be blessings. See Gen 12:2. We are not born, nor do we live, for ourselves. 4. It is difficult to thrive without growing secure and indulgent to the flesh. It was David's infirmity that when he settled in his kingdom he took more wives (Ch1 14:3), yet the numerous issue he had added to his honour and strength. Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord. We had an account of David's children, not only in Samuel, but in this book (Ch1 3:1, etc.) and now here again; for it was their honour to have such a father.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–7. Public domain.

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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.

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