1 Chronicles 22:5

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.

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}.

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.

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.

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

Context of 1 Chronicles 22:5

This verse is part of King David's final instructions and preparations for the building of the first Temple in Jerusalem. Although David passionately desired to build a permanent dwelling place for the Lord's presence, God forbade him because he was a man of war (1 Chronicles 22:8). Instead, God designated David's son, Solomon, to undertake this monumental task (1 Chronicles 17:12). Understanding Solomon's youth and inexperience, David recognized the immense scale and sacredness of the Temple project. Therefore, he took it upon himself to gather vast resources and materials, ensuring his successor had everything needed to complete the divine assignment before David's death.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Preparation and Foresight: David's meticulous preparation exemplifies wise leadership and stewardship. Even though he could not personally build the Temple, he dedicated his remaining years to ensuring its success, demonstrating a selfless commitment to God's work beyond his own lifetime. This forethought ensured a smooth transition for Solomon.
  • Magnificence for God's Glory: David envisioned a Temple that would be "exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries." This wasn't for human pride, but to reflect the immense greatness and sovereignty of the God of Israel, serving as a beacon of His presence and power to all nations.
  • Mentorship and Legacy: David's concern that "Solomon my son [is] young and tender" highlights the crucial importance of experienced leaders mentoring and equipping the next generation. He didn't leave Solomon to start from scratch but provided a substantial foundation for his future endeavors, ensuring the continuity of God's sacred work.
  • Divine Purpose: The building of the Temple was central to God's plan for Israel, providing a permanent, central place for worship, sacrifice, and the symbolic dwelling of God among His people. David's abundant preparations were an act of obedience to this overarching divine purpose.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "young and tender" (Hebrew: נַעַר וָרָךְ, na'ar varakh) emphasizes Solomon's relative inexperience and perhaps his vulnerability at the time of assuming the throne and this monumental task. It underscores David's paternal concern and his recognition that the project's success depended on more than just Solomon's youthful vigor—it required extensive foundational work and mature guidance.

The description of the Temple as "exceeding magnifical" (Hebrew: לְמַעְלָה לְמַעְלָה לְגֶדֶל, l'ma'lah l'ma'lah l'gedel) conveys a sense of extraordinary greatness, surpassing all expectations. It suggests a structure that would be beyond ordinary grandeur, emphasizing its unique status as the dwelling place of the Almighty, worthy of "fame and of glory throughout all countries." This was not merely about size, but about unparalleled splendor befitting the Creator.

Practical Application

1 Chronicles 22:5 offers valuable lessons for believers today:

  • Investing in the Future: Like David, we are called to prepare for the future, whether in our families, communities, or spiritual endeavors. This involves thoughtful planning, gathering necessary resources, and laying groundwork for those who will follow us in ministry or leadership.
  • Excellence in God's Service: Our efforts for God's kingdom should always reflect His character—excellent, glorious, and worthy of honor. This doesn't necessarily mean expensive, but rather done with utmost care, dedication, and a heart focused purely on His praise and purpose.
  • Mentoring the Next Generation: Experienced believers have a crucial role in equipping and empowering younger leaders and members of the faith. Providing guidance, resources, and unwavering support helps ensure the continuation and flourishing of God's work across generations.
  • Humility and Collaboration: David, a mighty king, humbly accepted God's directive that he would not build the Temple. Instead, he channeled his energy into supporting his son, illustrating the importance of collaboration and stepping aside when God calls others to lead. This echoes the broader biblical principle of humility and putting others first for the greater good of God's kingdom.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 29:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ 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 (4 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

    ¶ 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 (3 votes)

    He must increase, but I [must] decrease.

  • 2 Peter 1:13 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Ezra 3:12 (2 votes)

    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: