1 Chronicles 22:19

KJV

Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the LORD God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now set {H5414} your heart {H3824} and your soul {H5315} to seek {H1875} the LORD {H3068} your God {H430}; arise {H6965} therefore, and build {H1129} ye the sanctuary {H4720} of the LORD {H3068} God {H430}, to bring {H935} the ark {H727} of the covenant {H1285} of the LORD {H3068}, and the holy {H6944} vessels {H3627} of God {H430}, into the house {H1004} that is to be built {H1129} to the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now set your heart and being on seeking ADONAI your God. Get up, and build the sanctuary for ADONAI, God. Then you can bring the ark for the covenant of ADONAI and the holy articles of God into the house that will be built for the name of ADONAI."

Berean Standard Bible

Now set your heart and soul to seek the LORD your God. Get started building the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the holy articles of God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD.”

American Standard Version

Now set your heart and your soul to seek after Jehovah your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of Jehovah God, to bring the ark of the covenant of Jehovah, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 22:19 captures King David's fervent charge to the leaders and people of Israel, urging them to embark upon the monumental task of constructing the Temple. Recognizing that the spiritual foundation must precede any physical endeavor, David calls for a holistic, internal commitment to seeking the Lord, which is then to be translated into diligent, collective action to build the sanctuary. The ultimate purpose of this grand undertaking is clearly articulated: to provide a permanent, fitting dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and the holy vessels, thereby establishing a central hub for God's manifest presence and the nation's worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a pivotal chapter where David, nearing the end of his reign, prepares for the construction of the Temple, a project God had forbidden him from undertaking due to his history as a man of war ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Instruction to David Regarding the Temple")). Having received divine instruction and gathered immense resources (materials, skilled craftsmen, and financial provisions), David now formally charges his son Solomon to build the Temple ([1 Chronicles 22:6](/1_chronicles/22-6 "1 Chronicles 22:6-16 - David's Charge to Solomon")). Crucially, David extends this mandate beyond Solomon, addressing "all the princes of Israel" (1 Chronicles 22:17) and, by extension, the entire nation. Verse 19, therefore, serves as a direct appeal to the community, emphasizing that the success of this sacred enterprise hinges not only on Solomon's leadership but on the unified spiritual and practical commitment of all Israel. It marks the transition from David's preparation to the nation's participation in fulfilling God's will.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the united monarchy under David marked a significant phase in Israel's history, transitioning from a tribal confederacy to a centralized kingdom with Jerusalem as its capital. For centuries, the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence, had resided in a portable tabernacle or temporary dwellings, reflecting Israel's nomadic origins. The desire to build a permanent, magnificent Temple was a natural progression for a settled nation, signifying stability, national identity, and a fixed center for worship. Such grand construction projects in the ancient Near East often required extensive national mobilization, including skilled labor, resource management, and significant financial investment, often involving royal decrees and communal effort. The Temple would not merely be a building; it would be the spiritual and political heart of the nation, a visible testament to God's dwelling among His people and the focal point for their covenant relationship with Him.
* **Key Themes:** The verse profoundly contributes to several key themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Initiative and Human Responsibility**. While God had promised a "house" for David's name and a permanent dwelling for His own presence, the actual construction required diligent human effort and obedience. Secondly, the imperative to "set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God" highlights **Wholehearted Devotion** as the indispensable prerequisite for any sacred work. This resonates deeply with the foundational command to love God with all one's being, as articulated in [Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - The Shema: Love God with All Your Being"). Thirdly, the ultimate goal of bringing the Ark into the sanctuary emphasizes the **Centrality of God's Presence and Worship**. The Temple was not an end in itself but a means to facilitate communion with God, making His dwelling among His people tangible. This theme of God desiring to dwell with humanity is foundational, stretching from the Tabernacle in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Tabernacle") to the New Covenant reality. Finally, David's role in preparing for a project he would not complete showcases the theme of **Legacy and Continuity**, where one generation faithfully lays the groundwork for the next to fulfill God's purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heart (Hebrew, _levav_):** In biblical thought, "heart" is far more than just the seat of emotions; it is the center of one's being, encompassing the intellect, will, conscience, and moral character. To "set one's heart" implies a deliberate, conscious decision and a focused intention, engaging one's entire inner self in the pursuit of God's will.
* **Soul (Hebrew, _nefesh_):** This term refers to the totality of the person—one's life-force, vitality, desires, and personality. When paired with "heart," it forms a merism, emphasizing a complete, unreserved, and holistic commitment. To "set one's soul" means to dedicate one's very existence and life energy to the task.
* **Sanctuary (Hebrew, _miqdash_):** Derived from the root _qadash_ (to be holy, set apart), a "sanctuary" is a sacred space consecrated exclusively for God's presence and worship. It signifies a place distinct from the common, dedicated to divine purposes, highlighting the holiness and reverence required for the Temple.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God;"**: This opening clause is a profound spiritual injunction. It demands an internal, holistic, and unwavering commitment to God as the foundational prerequisite for any external action. The "seeking" implies not just intellectual curiosity but an active pursuit of God's will, presence, and favor, engaging every faculty of one's being. This internal disposition is paramount.
* **"arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the LORD God,"**: Following the spiritual directive, this clause issues a direct, urgent call to action. The "therefore" establishes a logical consequence: because one has set their heart and soul to seek God, they must now translate that internal devotion into tangible, diligent effort. "Arise" suggests moving from a state of passivity to active engagement, emphasizing collective responsibility in constructing God's holy dwelling.
* **"to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and the holy vessels of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the LORD."**: This final clause articulates the ultimate purpose of the entire endeavor. The Temple was not merely a grand architectural feat but a sacred space designed to house the Ark of the Covenant (symbolizing God's presence and covenant fidelity) and the instruments of worship. Building "to the name of the LORD" signifies that the entire project was for God's glory, honor, and the establishment of His manifest presence among His people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its message with force and clarity. The predominant use of the **Imperative Mood** ("set," "arise," "build," "bring") creates a sense of urgency, authority, and direct command, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of David's charge. The phrase "heart and soul" functions as a **Merism**, a rhetorical device where two contrasting or complementary parts are used to represent a whole. Here, it emphasizes the totality of a person's being—intellect, will, emotion, and vitality—demanding complete devotion. Furthermore, the structure of the verse demonstrates a clear **Logical Progression** or **Cause and Effect**: the spiritual commitment ("set your heart and soul to seek the LORD") is presented as the necessary precursor and motivation for the physical action ("arise therefore, and build"). This highlights the biblical principle that true, effective work for God flows from an internal, consecrated disposition. Finally, the "sanctuary," "Ark of the Covenant," and "holy vessels" are rich **Symbols** of God's presence, covenant relationship, and the means by which His people draw near to Him in worship, imbuing the physical construction with profound spiritual significance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse encapsulates a profound theological truth: genuine service to God must always flow from a place of deep, internal devotion. The call to "set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD" establishes spiritual readiness as the indispensable foundation for any meaningful action in God's kingdom. This principle transcends the specific context of Temple building, emphasizing that outward acts of piety or service are hollow without an accompanying wholehearted commitment to God Himself. The purpose of the Temple, to house the Ark of the Covenant, reinforces the overarching biblical theme of God's desire to dwell among His people, providing a tangible space for communion, worship, and the manifestation of His glory. This physical dwelling foreshadows a more profound spiritual reality where God's presence is not confined to a building but indwells His people.

* [Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - The Great Commandment to Love God")
* [Jeremiah 29:13](/jeremiah/29-13 "Jeremiah 29:13 - Seeking God Wholeheartedly")
* [Psalm 27:4](/psalm/27-4 "Psalm 27:4 - Desiring to Dwell in God's House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's charge in 1 Chronicles 22:19 offers timeless principles for believers today, transcending the literal act of building a physical temple. The initial imperative to "set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God" reminds us that all true spiritual endeavor must begin with an internal posture of wholehearted devotion and diligent pursuit of God's will. Before we "build" anything—whether it's a ministry, a family, a career, or personal character—our primary focus must be on cultivating an intimate, unreserved relationship with God. This internal readiness then naturally propels us to "arise therefore, and build." Our faith is not passive; it demands active participation, diligent work, and the deployment of our gifts and resources in service to God's kingdom. Just as the Temple was built to house God's presence, our lives, our homes, and our churches should be consecrated spaces where God's presence is welcomed, honored, and made manifest. We are called to be "temples" of the Holy Spirit, ensuring that our actions are not merely self-serving but are ultimately for "the name of the LORD," bringing His glory and presence into a world that desperately needs Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life am I being called to "set my heart and soul to seek the LORD" more wholeheartedly?**
* **What tangible "building" projects, whether spiritual or practical, is God calling me to "arise and build" in my current season?**
* **How can I ensure that my efforts and endeavors are truly centered on God's presence and glory, rather than on personal recognition or external achievement?**

### FAQ
**Why was David not allowed to build the Temple, but Solomon was?**

Answer: God explicitly told David that he was a man of war and had shed much blood, making him unsuitable to build a house for God's name ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Prohibition to David")). Instead, God chose Solomon, David's son, who would be a man of peace, to undertake this sacred task ([1 Chronicles 22:9](/1_chronicles/22-9 "1 Chronicles 22:9-10 - God's Promise to Solomon")). This decision highlights God's sovereignty, His specific purposes for individuals, and the symbolic significance of the Temple as a place of peace and rest.

**What is the significance of the "Ark of the Covenant" in this verse?**

Answer: The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's holy presence, His throne, and His covenant relationship with His people ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God's Presence Above the Ark")). Its placement within the Temple was the ultimate purpose of the building, signifying that the Temple was primarily a dwelling place for God among His people. It underscored that the Temple's grandeur was not for human glory, but for the glory and manifest presence of the LORD.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The charge to "set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD" and "build ye the sanctuary" finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament Temple was a physical structure designed to house God's presence, it was always a shadow pointing to a greater reality. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of the temple of His body ([John 2:19](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus, the True Temple")). Christ is the true and ultimate sanctuary, the very embodiment of God's presence dwelling among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Through His atoning sacrifice, the veil separating humanity from God's holy presence was torn, granting direct access to the Father ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Torn Veil") and [Hebrews 10:19](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ")). Furthermore, in Christ, believers are transformed into living stones, becoming a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, built upon the cornerstone, Jesus Christ Himself ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones") and [Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ, the Cornerstone")). The call to "seek the LORD" is now fully realized in seeking Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). Our "building" today is the edification of His church, the body of Christ, and the cultivation of our lives as temples of the Holy Spirit, where God's presence truly dwells ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Your Body, a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the ultimate purpose of bringing the Ark (God's presence) into the "house" is fulfilled by the indwelling of the Spirit in every believer and the corporate presence of Christ in His gathered people.

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 28:9

And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.

Deuteronomy 4:29

But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find [him], if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.

1 Chronicles 16:11

Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.

Psalms 27:4

One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.

1 Chronicles 22:7

And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God:

1 Kings 8:6

And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, into the oracle of the house, to the most holy [place, even] under the wings of the cherubims.

2 Chronicles 5:7

And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, to the oracle of the house, into the most holy [place, even] under the wings of the cherubims: