1 Chronicles 22:5

KJV

And David said, Solomon my son [is] young and tender, and the house [that is] to be builded for the LORD [must be] exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will [therefore] now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559}, Solomon {H8010} my son {H1121} is young {H5288} and tender {H7390}, and the house {H1004} that is to be builded {H1129} for the LORD {H3068} must be exceeding {H4605} magnifical {H1431}, of fame {H8034} and of glory {H8597} throughout all countries {H776}: I will therefore now make preparation {H3559} for it. So David {H1732} prepared {H3559} abundantly {H7230} before {H6440} his death {H4194}.

Complete Jewish Bible

David said, "Shlomo my son is young and inexperienced, while the house to be built for ADONAI must be so magnificent and splendid that its fame and glory will be known in every country; so I will make preparations for him." Therefore David made extensive preparations before his death.

Berean Standard Bible

And David said, “My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent—famous and glorious throughout all lands. Therefore I must make preparations for it.” So David made lavish preparations before his death.

American Standard Version

And David said, Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be builded for Jehovah must be exceeding magnificent, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will therefore make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 22:5 reveals King David's profound foresight and selfless dedication to the building of the Temple in Jerusalem. Recognizing his son Solomon's youth and the immense, sacred nature of the task—a house for the Lord that must be "exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries"—David committed his remaining years to meticulously gathering vast quantities of materials and resources. This verse encapsulates David's strategic preparation, ensuring that the divine project, though not his to complete, would be set up for unparalleled success by his successor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a pivotal section of 1 Chronicles (chapters 21-29) that details David's final acts and preparations for the Temple. Having been forbidden by God to build the Temple himself due to his history as a man of war ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Prohibition to David")), David fully embraces his divinely appointed role as the preparer. Immediately preceding this verse, David has already begun to organize resources, including stonecutters and iron for nails ([1 Chronicles 22:2-4](/1_chronicles/22-2 "1 Chronicles 22:2-4 - David's Initial Preparations for the Temple")). Following this declaration, David formally charges Solomon to build the Temple ([1 Chronicles 22:6-16](/1_chronicles/22-6 "1 Chronicles 22:6-16 - David's Charge to Solomon")) and enlists the support of the leaders of Israel, urging them to assist his son ([1 Chronicles 22:17-19](/1_chronicles/22-17 "1 Chronicles 22:17-19 - David Enlists Support for Solomon")). Thus, 1 Chronicles 22:5 serves as David's explicit rationale and commitment to this extensive preparatory work, bridging his desire to build with Solomon's ultimate responsibility.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of a central sanctuary was a monumental undertaking in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's permanent presence among His people, a concept previously represented by the portable Tabernacle. Kings in the ancient Near East often undertook grand building projects to solidify their legacy and demonstrate their devotion to their deities. David, having established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual capital, understood the immense significance of a permanent Temple. Culturally, the transition of power from an aging king to a young, inexperienced heir was often fraught with instability. David's meticulous preparations for Solomon, including the gathering of resources and the organization of labor, were not just practical but also served to legitimize Solomon's reign and ensure a smooth succession, demonstrating a responsible and faithful transfer of divine mandate.

* **Key Themes:** This verse underscores several significant themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **generational faithfulness and succession**, as David, unable to complete the task himself, diligently prepares the way for his son, Solomon. This demonstrates a selfless commitment to God's long-term plan over personal ambition, echoing God's promise to David regarding his dynasty in [2 Samuel 7:12-13](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-13 - God's Covenant with David"). Secondly, the emphasis on the Temple being "exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries" points to the theme of **God's transcendent glory and universal witness**. The Temple was not merely a local shrine but a testament to the greatness of the God of Israel, intended to draw the attention and respect of surrounding nations, as seen in the later account of the Queen of Sheba's visit in [1 Kings 10](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10 - The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon"). Finally, the verse powerfully illustrates the theme of **diligent preparation and stewardship** in service to God's purposes, showing that even when one cannot directly fulfill a divine calling, supporting and enabling others in that calling is an equally vital act of obedience and worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **young and tender (Hebrew, _na'ar varakh_):** The Hebrew phrase נַעַר וָרָךְ (na'ar varakh) literally means "boy and soft/tender." "Na'ar" typically refers to a youth, often one who is not yet fully mature or independent, while "varakh" denotes softness, weakness, or vulnerability. When combined, these terms emphasize Solomon's relative inexperience, immaturity, and perhaps even his physical youth at the time he was designated to build the Temple. David's assessment is not a criticism but a realistic recognition of the immense challenge facing his son, underscoring the necessity of extensive support and preparation.
* **exceeding magnifical (Hebrew, _l'ma'lah l'ma'lah l'gedel_):** The Hebrew לְמַעְלָה לְמַעְלָה לְגֶדֶל (l'ma'lah l'ma'lah l'gedel) is a powerful double superlative, literally meaning "upward, upward, for greatness" or "exceedingly, exceedingly great." This construction conveys a sense of unparalleled grandeur, splendor, and magnificence that goes beyond ordinary human expectations. It signifies that the Temple was to be a structure of supreme importance and beauty, not merely large, but glorious in a way that truly reflected the majesty and holiness of the God for whom it was built.
* **fame and of glory (Hebrew, _shem v'tif'eret_):** The terms שֵׁם וְתִפְאֶרֶת (shem v'tif'eret) mean "name/reputation and glory/splendor/beauty." "Shem" refers to renown or reputation, indicating that the Temple's magnificence would be widely known and respected. "Tif'eret" speaks to its inherent beauty, splendor, and the honor it would bring. Together, they articulate David's vision for the Temple as a beacon that would not only honor God within Israel but also command respect and awe from surrounding nations, testifying to the greatness of the Lord throughout the world.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said, Solomon my son [is] young and tender":** This opening clause reveals David's paternal concern and pragmatic assessment of his son's capabilities. David acknowledges Solomon's youth and relative inexperience, recognizing that the monumental task of building the Temple would be overwhelming for someone of his age and limited leadership tenure. This candid admission serves as David's primary motivation for his subsequent actions.
* **"and the house [that is] to be builded for the LORD [must be] exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries":** This part of the verse articulates the divine standard and global purpose of the Temple. David understood that the dwelling place for the Almighty God of Israel could not be an ordinary structure; it had to be of unparalleled splendor, reflecting God's infinite greatness and majesty. Furthermore, its magnificence was intended to be a testimony to God's glory that would extend beyond Israel's borders, drawing the attention and respect of all nations.
* **"I will [therefore] now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.":** This concluding section highlights David's selfless commitment and decisive action. Because of Solomon's youth and the Temple's required grandeur, David takes it upon himself to gather vast resources and make all necessary arrangements. The phrase "prepared abundantly before his death" emphasizes the thoroughness and extensiveness of his efforts, demonstrating his dedication to ensuring the success of God's project, even though he would not live to see its completion.

#### Literary Devices
1 Chronicles 22:5 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Juxtaposition** is evident in the contrast between Solomon's "young and tender" state and the Temple's required "exceeding magnifical" nature. This highlights the immense gap that David's preparations are intended to bridge. The phrase "exceeding magnifical" itself is a form of **hyperbole** or **superlative language**, using a double intensifier in the Hebrew to emphasize the extraordinary, unparalleled grandeur envisioned for the Temple, underscoring its divine significance. The entire verse functions as a form of **foreshadowing**, as David's diligent preparations set the stage for the glorious completion of the Temple under Solomon's reign, a fulfillment detailed in subsequent chapters of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Finally, there's an element of **irony** in David, a mighty warrior, being forbidden to build the Temple but dedicating his final years to preparing for it, while his son, a man of peace, is chosen to construct it. This subtly underscores God's sovereign choice and the distinct roles assigned to each leader.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 22:5 offers profound theological insights into God's dwelling among His people, the nature of worship, and the importance of intergenerational faithfulness. David's vision for a "magnifical" Temple underscores the biblical principle that God, though transcendent, desires to dwell among His people, and that worship offered to Him should reflect His supreme worth. The Temple was not merely a building but a tangible symbol of God's covenant presence, a place where His glory would be manifest. David's selfless preparation, despite being denied the privilege of building, exemplifies a profound commitment to God's purposes that transcends personal ambition. It teaches that true service to God often involves laying foundations for future generations, ensuring the continuity of His work and the flourishing of His kingdom. This act of stewardship and foresight ensures that God's glory is upheld and His mission advanced through successive generations.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Tabernacle")
* [Haggai 2:9](/haggai/2-9 "Haggai 2:9 - The Future Glory of the Temple")
* [Psalm 78:70-72](/psalms/78-70 "Psalm 78:70-72 - David's Faithful Shepherd Leadership")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's meticulous preparation for the Temple, as described in 1 Chronicles 22:5, provides a powerful paradigm for believers today. It calls us to cultivate a long-term vision for God's kingdom, understanding that our contributions may not always culminate in immediate, visible results but are often foundational for future generations. Like David, we are called to invest our resources—time, talent, and treasure—with excellence and generosity, not for personal glory, but for the "fame and glory" of God. This involves a selfless spirit, recognizing that God's work is bigger than any single individual or lifetime. It also highlights the critical importance of mentoring and equipping the next generation, providing them with the necessary resources, wisdom, and support to carry forward the divine mandate. Our efforts should always aim for the highest standard, reflecting the magnificence of the God we serve, whether in our personal lives, our families, our churches, or our communities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry are you called to "make preparation" for something you may not personally complete?**
* **How does David's commitment to excellence for God's house challenge your own standards of service and giving?**
* **Who are the "young and tender" individuals in your sphere of influence that you can mentor, equip, and support for future leadership or service?**
* **How can your actions today contribute to the "fame and glory" of God in your community and beyond?**

### FAQ
**Why couldn't David build the Temple himself, despite his desire?**

Answer: While David passionately desired to build a permanent dwelling for the Lord, God specifically forbade him from doing so because he was a man of war who had shed much blood ([1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Reason for David Not Building the Temple")). Instead, God chose David's son, Solomon, a man of peace, to undertake this sacred task. This decision underscored God's sovereignty and the symbolic nature of the Temple as a place of peace and worship, not conquest. David's role was to prepare the way, ensuring all resources and plans were in place for Solomon.

**What does "exceeding magnifical" imply for our service to God today?**

Answer: "Exceeding magnifical" doesn't necessarily demand material opulence, but rather a spirit of excellence, dedication, and utmost reverence in all that we do for God's kingdom. It implies that our efforts should reflect the infinite worth and glory of God, whether in our worship, our service to others, or our personal integrity. As [Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Working for the Lord") states, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." It calls us to give our best, not our leftovers, out of love and honor for Him.

**How does David's preparation for Solomon relate to modern leadership and succession?**

Answer: David's actions in 1 Chronicles 22:5 provide a timeless model for effective leadership and succession planning. It emphasizes the importance of identifying and empowering the next generation of leaders. Rather than clinging to power or leaving a vacuum, David strategically invested in Solomon, providing resources, guidance, and a clear mandate. This selfless approach ensures continuity, stability, and the continued flourishing of the mission beyond one's own tenure. It highlights the wisdom of preparing others for future responsibilities, fostering a culture of mentorship and shared vision, and ultimately prioritizing the long-term success of the cause over individual recognition.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Temple, which David so meticulously prepared for and Solomon built, served as the central dwelling place of God among His people, a tangible symbol of His presence and glory. In the New Testament, this physical structure finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true and greater Temple, the very embodiment of God's presence on earth, for in Him "all the fullness of God dwells bodily" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - The Fullness of Christ")). Just as David prepared abundantly for the Temple, God the Father prepared the way for the coming of His Son, orchestrating history and prophecy to bring about the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity. Jesus himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). Furthermore, through Christ's atoning work, believers are now incorporated into a spiritual temple, the Church, becoming "a dwelling place for God by the Spirit" ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as God's Dwelling")). David's vision for a Temple of "fame and of glory throughout all countries" is fully realized in the global spread of the gospel through the Church, proclaiming the fame and glory of Christ to every nation, fulfilling the Great Commission given by Jesus in [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission").

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 29:1

¶ Furthermore David the king said unto all the congregation, Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, [is yet] young and tender, and the work [is] great: for the palace [is] not for man, but for the LORD God.

1 Kings 3:7

And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I [am but] a little child: I know not [how] to go out or come in.

John 13:1

¶ Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.

John 3:30

He must increase, but I [must] decrease.

2 Peter 1:13

Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting [you] in remembrance;

2 Peter 1:15

Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

Ezra 3:12

But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, [who were] ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: