1 Chronicles 16:29

KJV

Give unto the LORD the glory [due] unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.

KJV (with Strong's)

Give {H3051} unto the LORD {H3068} the glory {H3519} due unto his name {H8034}: bring {H5375} an offering {H4503}, and come {H935} before {H6440} him: worship {H7812} the LORD {H3068} in the beauty {H1927} of holiness {H6944}.

Complete Jewish Bible

give ADONAI the glory due to his name; bring an offering, and come into his presence. Worship ADONAI in splendid, holy attire.

Berean Standard Bible

Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness;

American Standard Version

Ascribe unto Jehovah the glory due unto his name: Bring an offering, and come before him; Worship Jehovah in holy array.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 16:29 stands as a profound summons to worship, embedded within King David's magnificent psalm of thanksgiving and praise. This psalm was sung as the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's tangible presence, was brought to Jerusalem. The verse serves as a concise yet comprehensive instruction on the proper posture and practice of worship, emphasizing the supreme honor due to God's name, the active engagement required of His people, and the inner purity that must characterize their approach to the Holy One. It encapsulates the essence of true devotion: acknowledging God's inherent worth, bringing one's best, and drawing near with a heart set apart.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of a lengthy psalm (found in [1 Chronicles 16:8-36](/1_chronicles/16-8 "1 Chronicles 16:8-36 - David's Psalm of Thanksgiving")) that King David appointed Asaph and his brethren to sing before the Ark of the Covenant, which had just been settled in a tent David pitched for it in Jerusalem. The broader psalm is a jubilant declaration of God's greatness, His mighty acts of salvation, and His unwavering covenant faithfulness from creation through the Exodus and the establishment of Israel. Within this grand narrative of praise and remembrance, [1 Chronicles 16:29](/1_chronicles/16-29 "1 Chronicles 16:29 - Call to Worship") shifts from recounting God's deeds to a direct imperative for His people: how they are to respond to such a magnificent God. It acts as a climactic call to worship, transitioning from a celebration of who God is and what He has done to an instruction on how His people should approach Him in reverence and awe. The surrounding verses encourage all the earth to sing to the Lord and declare His salvation, making [verse 29](/1_chronicles/16-29 "1 Chronicles 16:29 - Call to Worship") a specific directive within this universal call to adoration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this psalm is a pivotal moment in Israelite history: the long-awaited return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, the newly established capital. For decades, the Ark had been separated from the central worship life of Israel, first captured by the Philistines and then residing in various private homes ([1 Samuel 7:1-2](/1_samuel/7-1 "1 Samuel 7:1-2 - Ark at Kirjath-jearim")). David's bringing the Ark to Jerusalem symbolized the re-establishment of God's central presence among His people and the unification of the nation under divine kingship. This event was not merely political but deeply religious, marking a new era of worship. In ancient Israel, worship often involved prescribed rituals, sacrifices, and communal gatherings at designated holy places. "Offerings" (like the _minchah_ mentioned in the linguistic analysis) were a common means of expressing devotion, gratitude, and atonement. The concept of "holiness" was central to Israelite understanding of God, signifying His absolute purity, separateness, and moral perfection, which demanded a corresponding purity from those who approached Him ([Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")).
* **Key Themes:** [1 Chronicles 16:29](/1_chronicles/16-29 "1 Chronicles 16:29 - Call to Worship") powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Chronicles and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty and absolute worthiness of God**, emphasizing that all glory belongs inherently to Him, not as something we bestow but as something we acknowledge and attribute. Secondly, it highlights the **active and intentional nature of worship**. Worship is not passive observation but a purposeful engagement, requiring the bringing of "an offering" and a conscious "coming before Him." This theme resonates with the broader biblical call for a wholehearted response to God's covenant love ([Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - Love the Lord with All Your Heart")). Thirdly, the verse profoundly addresses the theme of **holiness**—both God's intrinsic holiness and the required holiness of His worshippers. To "worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness" points to the splendor of God's own character and the imperative for His people to reflect that purity in their lives and worship, moving beyond mere ritual to spiritual and moral integrity ([Psalm 24:3-4](/psalms/24-3 "Psalm 24:3-4 - Who May Ascend the Hill of the Lord?")). These themes collectively portray worship as a comprehensive life response to God's majesty and grace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glory (Hebrew, _kavod'_):** The Hebrew word כָּבוֹד (_kavod_) literally means "weight," "heaviness," or "substance." In a theological context, it refers to God's manifest presence, His inherent worth, honor, majesty, and splendor. To "give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name" is not to add something to God, but to recognize, acknowledge, and declare His intrinsic, weighty significance and supreme value. It is an act of attributing ultimate importance and praise to Him as the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
* **Offering (Hebrew, _minchah'_):** The term מִנְחָה (_minchah_) typically refers to a "gift," "tribute," or specifically a "grain offering" in the Mosaic Law. However, in this broader context, it signifies any act of homage or devotion brought to God. It encompasses not just material sacrifices but also the giving of oneself, one's time, talents, and resources as an expression of worship and submission. It implies an active, intentional act of presenting something of value to God.
* **Beauty of Holiness (Hebrew, _hadrat-qodesh'_):** This rich phrase, הַדְרַת־קֹדֶשׁ (_hadrat-qodesh_), combines _hadrat_ (splendor, majesty, adornment) with _qodesh_ (holiness, sacredness). It does not refer to outward aesthetic beauty but to the inherent splendor and awe-inspiring nature of God's own holiness. When applied to worshippers, it means approaching God with reverence, moral purity, and spiritual integrity. It suggests that true worship is characterized by a reflection of God's sacred purity, where the worshipper's inner consecration manifests as a beautiful and acceptable offering to God. It is the splendor that emanates from a life set apart for God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Give unto the LORD the glory [due] unto his name":** This opening imperative establishes the foundational principle of worship: God is inherently worthy of all praise, honor, and adoration. To "give glory" means to acknowledge His supreme value, to declare His majesty, and to attribute to Him the honor that is rightfully His because of His character, power, and deeds. The phrase "unto his name" emphasizes that it is God's very being, His revealed character and identity, that is the object of this glory.
* **"bring an offering, and come before him":** These two commands highlight the active and intentional nature of worship. "Bring an offering" signifies a tangible act of devotion, whether a material sacrifice in the Old Covenant or, more broadly, the giving of one's best—time, talents, resources, and self—as an act of homage. "Come before him" emphasizes the necessity of drawing near to God's presence, not casually, but with purpose, reverence, and expectation. It implies a conscious, personal encounter.
* **"worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness":** This culminating phrase describes the *manner* and *quality* of true worship. It is not merely ritualistic but must stem from an inner state of purity and reverence. "The beauty of holiness" refers to the splendor and awe-inspiring nature of God's own sacredness, which should be reflected in the lives and attitudes of those who worship Him. It calls for worship that is characterized by moral integrity, spiritual purity, and a heart set apart for God, recognizing that true beauty in worship is found in genuine consecration and devotion.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in the series of direct commands: "Give," "bring," "come," and "worship." This creates a sense of urgency and directness, emphasizing that worship is not optional but a mandatory and active response. There is also a strong element of **Cumulative Structure**, where each clause builds upon the previous one, progressively defining the nature of true worship. It moves from the foundational principle of attributing glory to God, to the active steps of bringing an offering and drawing near, culminating in the essential quality of worship—"in the beauty of holiness." This creates a comprehensive picture of what God desires from His worshippers. Furthermore, the phrase "beauty of holiness" functions as a rich **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. It is a metaphor for the splendor and attractiveness of a life consecrated to God, suggesting that spiritual purity and devotion are inherently beautiful and pleasing to Him. It symbolizes the awe-inspiring nature of God's own holiness, which should be mirrored in the reverent and pure approach of His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 16:29 provides a timeless theological framework for understanding worship, connecting the Old Testament's emphasis on God's transcendent holiness with the New Testament's call for spiritual devotion. It underscores the unchanging truth that God alone is worthy of all glory and that our worship must be a fitting response to His inherent majesty. The call to "bring an offering" foreshadows the ultimate offering of Christ, but also reminds believers that worship is an active, sacrificial engagement of our whole selves. The profound concept of "worship in the beauty of holiness" transcends mere ritual, demanding an inner purity and moral integrity that aligns with God's character. This aligns with the prophetic call for justice and righteousness as integral to true worship, and it anticipates the New Covenant emphasis on worship "in spirit and truth," where the condition of the heart is paramount. Ultimately, this verse teaches that genuine worship is a holistic, heart-felt, and holy response to the God who is supremely glorious.

* [Psalm 29:2](/psalms/29-2 "Psalm 29:2 - Ascribe to the Lord Glory") - "Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness." (Direct parallel)
* [Psalm 96:9](/psalms/96-9 "Psalm 96:9 - Worship the Lord in Holy Attire") - "O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth." (Another direct parallel, emphasizing reverence)
* [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices") - "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." (New Testament parallel to "bring an offering" and "beauty of holiness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, 1 Chronicles 16:29 remains a foundational guide for authentic worship, extending beyond formal church gatherings into every sphere of life. It challenges us to examine the posture of our hearts and the intention behind our actions when we approach God. Are we truly giving Him the "glory due unto his name," acknowledging His supreme worth and allowing that recognition to shape our priorities and perspectives? This means living a God-centered life where His honor is paramount, not just in our words but in our deeds, our finances, our relationships, and our time. The command to "bring an offering, and come before him" calls us to active, intentional participation in worship. This isn't about mere attendance but about bringing our best—our attention, our praise, our resources, and our very selves as a living sacrifice. It's an invitation to draw near to God with purpose, expectation, and a willingness to be transformed by His presence. Most profoundly, "worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness" reminds us that true worship is not about outward performance or aesthetic perfection, but about inner purity, moral integrity, and a consecrated life. It's about aligning our character with God's, striving for holiness because He is holy. This means cultivating a heart that is set apart for Him, seeking to live in obedience and truth, recognizing that the most beautiful worship flows from a pure heart dedicated to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I "give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name" in my daily life, beyond formal worship times?**
* **What "offering" am I truly bringing to God—not just materially, but of my time, talents, and attention—when I "come before Him"?**
* **What does "worship in the beauty of holiness" look like for me personally, and how can I cultivate a heart that reflects this spiritual purity?**
* **How does my understanding of God's holiness impact the way I approach Him in prayer, study, and service?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "give unto the LORD the glory [due] unto his name"?**

Answer: To "give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name" means to acknowledge, recognize, and declare God's inherent worth, majesty, and supreme value. It's not about adding to God's glory, as He is already infinitely glorious, but about attributing to Him the honor that is rightfully His. This involves praising Him for His character, His mighty acts, and His faithfulness. It means living a life that reflects His greatness, making His name known, and prioritizing His honor above all else. It's a fundamental act of worship that positions God as the ultimate authority and source of all good.

**What kind of "offering" are believers today expected to bring, as the Old Testament sacrificial system is no longer in place?**

Answer: While the Old Testament sacrificial system, including grain offerings (_minchah_), has been fulfilled in Christ's ultimate sacrifice, the principle of bringing an "offering" remains vital for believers today. In the New Covenant, this offering is primarily spiritual and personal. It includes presenting our bodies as a "living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God" ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")), offering the "sacrifice of praise" from our lips ([Hebrews 13:15](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - The Sacrifice of Praise")), sharing our resources with those in need ([Hebrews 13:16](/hebrews/13-16 "Hebrews 13:16 - Doing Good and Sharing")), and dedicating our time, talents, and service to God's kingdom. It's about giving our best, not out of obligation, but out of love and devotion, as an expression of our gratitude and worship.

**What is meant by "worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness"?**

Answer: "Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness" refers to approaching God with an inner state of purity, reverence, and moral integrity. It is not about outward aesthetic beauty or ritualistic perfection, but about the splendor and attractiveness of a heart and life consecrated to God. God's holiness is His absolute purity, separateness, and moral perfection. To worship Him "in the beauty of holiness" means that our worship should reflect His character—it should be sincere, truthful, and accompanied by a life that strives for righteousness. It implies that true worship flows from a pure conscience and a spirit set apart for God, making our devotion beautiful and acceptable in His sight ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 16:29, with its call to "give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name" and "worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of God's glory, the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Radiance of God's Glory")). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus perfectly glorified the Father, demonstrating the full "beauty of holiness" in His sinless life and sacrificial obedience. As the ultimate "offering," Christ presented Himself as the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice for sin ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - The Perfect Sacrifice")), thereby opening a new and living way for us to "come before Him" with confidence ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God through Christ")). Now, through faith in Him, believers are made holy and righteous in God's sight, enabling us to truly "worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness" not by our own merit, but by His imputed righteousness and the indwelling Spirit ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Righteousness")). Our worship, therefore, is a Christ-centered response, offering ourselves as living sacrifices ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")) and declaring the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")). In Christ, the ancient call to worship is transformed into a vibrant, spiritual reality, enabling us to approach a holy God with pure hearts, all glory redounding to His name through the Son.

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.