1 Chronicles 15:1

¶ And [David] made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.

And David made {H6213} him houses {H1004} in the city {H5892} of David {H1732}, and prepared {H3559} a place {H4725} for the ark {H727} of God {H430}, and pitched {H5186} for it a tent {H168}.

David erected buildings for himself in the City of David, prepared a place for the ark of God, and set up a tent for it.

David constructed buildings for himself in the City of David, and he prepared a place for the ark of God and pitched a tent for it.

AndDavidmade him houses in the city of David; and he prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 15:1 marks a pivotal moment in King David's reign, highlighting his commitment to God's presence in Israel's capital. After establishing his own royal residence, David's immediate focus shifts to properly bringing the Ark of God to Jerusalem.

Context

This verse sets the stage for a significant spiritual event in Israel's history. Following his successful consolidation of power and the building of his own "houses in the city of David" (Jerusalem), King David turns his attention to the Ark of the Covenant. This was not his first attempt; a previous, ill-fated endeavor resulted in the death of Uzzah because the Ark was not transported according to God's specific instructions (1 Chronicles 13:9-10, 2 Samuel 6:6-7). This time, David ensures careful preparation, including "preparing a place for the ark of God" and pitching a dedicated "tent" for it, distinct from the tabernacle that remained in Gibeon.

Key Themes and Messages

  • David's Priorities: The verse reveals David's heart for God. Even after securing his political capital and personal comfort, his primary concern is to bring God's presence—symbolized by the Ark—to the heart of his kingdom. This demonstrates that true leadership prioritizes divine matters over personal gain.
  • Reverence and Intentionality: The phrase "prepared a place" signifies careful planning and a deep sense of reverence, contrasting sharply with the previous hasty and irreverent attempt. David learned from past mistakes, emphasizing the importance of approaching sacred things with proper respect and according to God's prescribed ways.
  • Centrality of Worship: By creating a dedicated space for the Ark in the City of David, David aimed to make Jerusalem not just a political capital but also the spiritual center of Israel, where God's presence would be honored and accessible. This tent would serve as the Ark's dwelling until Solomon built the Temple.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers to examine their own priorities. Just as David ensured God's presence was central to his kingdom, we are called to prioritize God in our lives, homes, and communities. It also serves as a reminder to approach spiritual matters with intentionality, reverence, and careful adherence to God's principles, learning from past errors and seeking to honor Him in all we do. What "tent" or dedicated space are we preparing for God's presence in our daily lives?

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 16:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ So they brought the ark of God, and set it in the midst of the tent that David had pitched for it: and they offered burnt sacrifices and peace offerings before God.

  • 1 Chronicles 17:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Now it came to pass, as David sat in his house, that David said to Nathan the prophet, Lo, I dwell in an house of cedars, but the ark of the covenant of the LORD [remaineth] under curtains.

  • 1 Chronicles 17:5 (3 votes)

    For I have not dwelt in an house since the day that I brought up Israel unto this day; but have gone from tent to tent, and from [one] tabernacle [to another].

  • Psalms 132:5 (3 votes)

    Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty [God] of Jacob.

  • 1 Chronicles 15:3 (3 votes)

    And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it.

  • Acts 7:46 (2 votes)

    Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.

  • 2 Samuel 13:7 (2 votes)

    Then David sent home to Tamar, saying, Go now to thy brother Amnon's house, and dress him meat.