1 Chronicles 17:9

KJV

Also I will ordain a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, and they shall dwell in their place, and shall be moved no more; neither shall the children of wickedness waste them any more, as at the beginning,

KJV (with Strong's)

Also I will ordain {H7760} a place {H4725} for my people {H5971} Israel {H3478}, and will plant {H5193} them, and they shall dwell {H7931} in their place, and shall be moved {H7264} no more; neither shall the children {H1121} of wickedness {H5766} waste {H1086} them any more {H3254}, as at the beginning {H7223},

Complete Jewish Bible

I will assign a place to my people Isra'el; I will plant them there, so that they can live in their own place without being disturbed any more. The wicked will no longer devastate them, as they did at the beginning,

Berean Standard Bible

And I will provide a place for My people Israel and will plant them so that they may dwell in a place of their own and be disturbed no more. No longer will the sons of wickedness oppress them as they did at the beginning

American Standard Version

And I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in their own place, and be moved no more; neither shall the children of wickedness waste them any more, as at the first,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 17:9 encapsulates a profound divine promise from God to His people Israel, delivered through the prophet Nathan to King David. It declares God's sovereign intention to establish a permanent and secure dwelling place for Israel, ensuring their stability and protection from hostile forces. This verse highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, signifying an end to their historical displacement and oppression, and setting the stage for an era of peace and settled existence under David's reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within God's comprehensive response to King David's heartfelt desire to build a magnificent temple for the Lord, as recorded in [1 Chronicles 17](/1_chronicles/17 "1 Chronicles 17 - God's Covenant with David"). David's noble intention, expressed in [1 Chronicles 17:1-2](/1_chronicles/17-1 "1 Chronicles 17:1-2 - David's Desire to Build a Temple"), is met not with a simple affirmation, but with a divine counter-proposal delivered by the prophet Nathan. God clarifies that He does not need a house built by human hands, but rather, He will build a "house" (a lasting dynasty) for David, establishing his kingdom and throne forever ([1 Chronicles 17:10-14](/1_chronicles/17-10 "1 Chronicles 17:10-14 - God's Promise of a Lasting Dynasty to David")). Before unveiling this monumental dynastic covenant, God first reiterates His enduring commitment to the nation of Israel itself, underscoring their secure status as His chosen people. Verse 9 specifically serves as a foundational assurance of national stability and protection, preparing the ground for the subsequent promise of a stable, eternal Davidic rule. It emphasizes that the security of the people is a prerequisite for the enduring reign of their king.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this divine declaration is the zenith of King David's reign, a period characterized by significant national consolidation, military victories, and the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual capital. Prior to this era, Israel's history was largely marked by periods of wandering, conquest, and oppression. From their sojourn in Egypt, through the wilderness wanderings, the tumultuous era of the Judges, and the early, unstable monarchy under Saul, the people had rarely experienced prolonged, secure settlement. The promise in [1 Chronicles 17:9](/1_chronicles/17-9 "1 Chronicles 17:9 - God's Promise of a Secure Place for Israel") directly addresses this historical instability, offering a vision of permanent dwelling in the land God had promised to Abraham centuries earlier ([Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - The Abrahamic Covenant of Land")). Culturally, the imagery of "planting" evokes an agricultural society's understanding of deep roots, stability, and flourishing, contrasting sharply with the precarious existence of a nomadic or constantly threatened people. The "children of wickedness" refer to the long line of hostile nations—such as the Egyptians, Canaanites, Philistines, and other regional adversaries—who had historically afflicted, enslaved, or attempted to dislodge Israel from their inheritance.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Chronicles 17:9](/1_chronicles/17-9 "1 Chronicles 17:9 - God's Promise of a Secure Place for Israel") powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Chronicles and biblical theology as a whole. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Faithfulness**, demonstrating God's active and unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, particularly the land promise made to Abraham. God is the initiator and sustainer of Israel's existence and security. Secondly, the verse highlights **Security and Permanence**, promising an end to the displacement and instability that had plagued Israel for centuries. The idea that "they shall dwell in their place, and shall be moved no more" speaks to a longed-for state of settled existence, a true homeland. Thirdly, it emphasizes **Protection from Oppression**, assuring Israel of divine deliverance from external enemies. The phrase "neither shall the children of wickedness waste them any more" points to God's role as Israel's shield and defender, promising an era of peace and freedom from the destructive forces that had historically threatened their well-being. These themes collectively reinforce the Chronicler's overarching message of hope and the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people, even in the face of past failures and future challenges.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ordain (Hebrew, _kûn_):** This verb signifies to establish, prepare, make firm, or confirm. When God states, "I will ordain a place," it emphasizes His sovereign initiative and deliberate act in setting up Israel's dwelling. It implies a divine decree that is unchangeable and brings about a state of permanence and stability. The action is fully God's, not dependent on human effort.
* **Plant (Hebrew, _nāṭaʿ_):** This word is rich in agricultural imagery, referring to the act of setting a plant firmly into the ground so it can take root and grow. Applied to a people, it vividly portrays Israel as being deeply and securely rooted in their land, not merely temporarily settled. This metaphor suggests organic growth, stability, and the inability to be easily uprooted or displaced, contrasting sharply with their earlier nomadic or transient existence.
* **Moved no more (Hebrew, _nûaʿ_):** The verb _nûaʿ_ means to wander, shake, totter, or be unsettled. The negation "no more" emphatically declares an end to Israel's historical instability, displacement, and vulnerability to external forces. It promises a final, secure, and permanent dwelling, free from the constant threat of being uprooted or driven from their land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Also I will ordain a place for my people Israel":** This opening clause immediately establishes God as the active agent and the source of Israel's security. The phrase "ordain a place" signifies God's deliberate, sovereign act of preparing and establishing a secure, designated homeland for His chosen people. It highlights His covenant faithfulness and His commitment to fulfilling the land promise made to Abraham.
* **"and will plant them, and they shall dwell in their place, and shall be moved no more":** This segment expands on the theme of permanence and stability. "Will plant them" uses vivid agricultural imagery to convey the idea of deep, secure rooting, ensuring Israel's firm establishment in their land. The subsequent phrase, "they shall dwell in their place," emphasizes a settled, unthreatened habitation. The powerful declaration "and shall be moved no more" serves as a climactic assurance, signifying the definitive end of their historical wandering, displacement, and vulnerability to external forces.
* **"neither shall the children of wickedness waste them any more, as at the beginning":** This final clause provides the crucial element of divine protection. "Children of wickedness" is an idiom referring to hostile, oppressive nations or peoples who act with malice and injustice towards Israel. The promise that they will "waste them any more" means these enemies will no longer devastate, destroy, or oppress Israel. The phrase "as at the beginning" explicitly recalls the long history of affliction Israel endured, from Egyptian bondage to Canaanite and Philistine incursions, highlighting that this new era will be fundamentally different—one of enduring peace and security under God's watchful care.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message of divine promise and security. **Metaphor** is prominently featured in the phrase "will plant them," likening the nation of Israel to a tree or crop that is securely rooted in the ground, implying stability, growth, and permanence. This contrasts sharply with the previous imagery of wandering or being uprooted. **Repetition** and **Emphasis** are achieved through the accumulation of clauses that reinforce the theme of enduring settlement: "ordain a place," "plant them," "dwell in their place," and "moved no more." This cumulative effect underscores the certainty and finality of God's promise. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between the past and the future: "moved no more" and "waste them any more" stand in stark opposition to "as at the beginning," highlighting a decisive shift from historical instability and oppression to future security and peace. Finally, the phrase "children of wickedness" serves as an **Idiom** or **Personification**, giving a collective, almost familial identity to the hostile forces that threatened Israel, making the promise of protection more vivid and comprehensive.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 17:9 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering covenant faithfulness and His active involvement in the destiny of His people. This promise of a secure dwelling and protection from enemies is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God pledged land and blessing to Abraham's descendants. It underscores the theological truth that God is not merely an observer but a sovereign orchestrator of history, actively working to fulfill His promises despite human failings or external threats. The stability and security offered here are not earned by Israel but are a gracious gift from God, demonstrating His character as a faithful provider and protector. This divine initiative lays the groundwork for the establishment of the Davidic kingdom, showing that the security of the nation is foundational to the enduring reign of its king. Ultimately, this verse points to the divine desire for His people to dwell in peace and security, a theme that resonates throughout redemptive history, culminating in the ultimate rest and secure dwelling found in Christ.

* [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land")
* [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")
* [Isaiah 60:18](/isaiah/60-18 "Isaiah 60:18 - No More Violence or Devastation in Zion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Chronicles 17:9 offers profound spiritual comfort and practical guidance for believers today. While the immediate context is the physical land and security of ancient Israel, the underlying principles of God's enduring faithfulness, His provision of a secure "place," and His protection from adversaries resonate deeply with our spiritual journey. In a world often characterized by instability, uncertainty, and spiritual opposition, this verse reminds us that our ultimate security rests in God's sovereign hand. Just as God promised to "plant" Israel firmly in their land, He promises to establish us securely in Christ, our true spiritual dwelling. This means finding our identity, belonging, and rest not in fleeting circumstances or earthly possessions, but in our relationship with Him. We are called to trust in His providence, knowing that He is our ultimate refuge and strength, capable of protecting us from the "children of wickedness"—whether they manifest as spiritual attacks, worldly pressures, or the destructive forces of sin. This promise encourages us to live with confidence, anchored in the unshakeable truth of God's covenant love and His unwavering commitment to His people, both then and now.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's promise of a secure "place" for Israel speak to our longing for stability and belonging in a turbulent world?**
* **In what ways do you experience God "planting" you and providing a secure dwelling, spiritually speaking, in your life today?**
* **How does the assurance of protection from "children of wickedness" encourage you in facing spiritual or worldly opposition and challenges?**
* **What specific actions can you take to more fully trust in God's sovereign plan for your life and for the world, knowing He is faithful to fulfill all His promises?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of God "planting" Israel in this verse?**

Answer: The imagery of God "planting" Israel is highly significant. It signifies a profound act of divine establishment and permanence. In an agricultural society, a planted tree or crop is deeply rooted, stable, and intended for long-term growth and flourishing. For Israel, this metaphor contrasts sharply with their long history of wandering, displacement, and temporary settlements, from their time in Egypt to their wilderness journey and the early struggles for land. God's act of "planting" them means He is actively and securely establishing them in their promised land, ensuring they are not easily uprooted or moved again. It speaks to a divinely ordained stability and an end to their transient existence, promising a secure and lasting inheritance.

**Who are the "children of wickedness" mentioned in 1 Chronicles 17:9?**

Answer: The "children of wickedness" (Hebrew: _bene 'awel_) refer to the hostile nations and oppressive forces that had historically afflicted and sought to "waste" or destroy Israel. This phrase is an idiom for those who act with iniquity, injustice, or malice against God's people. Historically, this would include nations like the Egyptians who enslaved them, the various Canaanite tribes they contended with for the land, and the Philistines who were a constant threat during the period of the Judges and early monarchy. The promise is that these destructive, unrighteous forces will no longer be able to devastate Israel as they had "at the beginning" of their history.

**How does this promise relate to David's desire to build a temple for God?**

Answer: This promise of national stability and security for Israel, found in [1 Chronicles 17:9](/1_chronicles/17-9 "1 Chronicles 17:9 - God's Promise of a Secure Place for Israel"), serves as a foundational context for God's subsequent promise to David regarding his dynasty. David wanted to build a "house" (temple) for God, but God responded by saying He would build a "house" (dynasty) for David, establishing his throne forever ([1 Chronicles 17:10-14](/1_chronicles/17-10 "1 Chronicles 17:10-14 - God's Promise of a Lasting Dynasty to David")). Before God outlines the glorious future of David's lineage, He first ensures the secure and stable environment for the people themselves. The stability of the nation of Israel is a prerequisite for the stability and enduring nature of the Davidic kingdom and, by extension, the eventual building of the temple by Solomon. God ensures the security of His people before establishing the enduring reign of their king and the place of His dwelling among them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Chronicles 17:9 speaks directly to God's promise of a physical dwelling and protection for ancient Israel, its deepest and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ. The longing for a secure, unmovable "place" and freedom from "children of wickedness" ultimately points to the spiritual and eternal security offered through the New Covenant. Christ is the true "place" where God's people are permanently "planted" and find their rest; He is our ultimate refuge and dwelling, a spiritual home that cannot be moved or wasted by any adversary ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). Through His atoning sacrifice and victorious resurrection, Jesus has triumphed over all "children of wickedness"—sin, death, and the powers of darkness—delivering us from the domain of spiritual oppression ([Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from the Domain of Darkness")). The church, as the body of Christ, becomes God's spiritual dwelling place, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints and Members of God's Household")). Ultimately, the promise of a secure, unmolested dwelling finds its eschatological climax in the New Heavens and New Earth, where God's dwelling place will be with humanity, and there will be no more sorrow, crying, or pain, for the old order of things will have passed away ([Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God's Dwelling Place is with Man")). Jesus, the true Davidic King, establishes an eternal kingdom where His people dwell in perfect peace and security forever.

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

Exodus 1:13

And the Egyptians made the children of Israel to serve with rigour:

Exodus 1:14

And they made their lives bitter with hard bondage, in morter, and in brick, and in all manner of service in the field: all their service, wherein they made them serve, [was] with rigour.

Ephesians 5:6

Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Exodus 2:23

¶ And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.

Ezekiel 36:14

Therefore thou shalt devour men no more, neither bereave thy nations any more, saith the Lord GOD.

Ezekiel 36:15

Neither will I cause [men] to hear in thee the shame of the heathen any more, neither shalt thou bear the reproach of the people any more, neither shalt thou cause thy nations to fall any more, saith the Lord GOD.

Revelation 21:4

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.