1 Chronicles 22:7

KJV

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:

KJV (with Strong's)

And David {H1732} said {H559} to Solomon {H8010}, My son {H1121}, as for me, it was in my mind {H3824} to build {H1129} an house {H1004} unto the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068} my God {H430}:

Complete Jewish Bible

"My son,"said David to Shlomo, "my heart was set on building a house for the name of ADONAI my God.

Berean Standard Bible

“My son,” said David to Solomon, “it was in my heart to build a house for the Name of the LORD my God,

American Standard Version

And David said to Solomon his son, As for me, it was in my heart to build a house unto the name of Jehovah my God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 22:7 presents a deeply personal declaration from King David to his son Solomon, revealing David's profound and long-cherished aspiration to construct a magnificent temple dedicated to the worship of the LORD his God. This pivotal moment not only underscores David's fervent devotion and his vision for a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, but also serves as a crucial transfer of divine mandate, implicitly commissioning Solomon for the monumental sacred task that God had ordained for him, thereby setting the stage for the Temple's eventual construction and the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a significant transitional phase in 1 Chronicles, immediately following David's extensive preparations for the Temple's construction, which include gathering immense quantities of materials and organizing the skilled laborers (as detailed in [1 Chronicles 22:1-5](/1_chronicles/22-1-5 "1 Chronicles 22:1-5 - David's Preparations for the Temple")). It directly precedes David's formal charge to Solomon and the assembled leaders of Israel, urging them to assist his son in this divine undertaking (found in [1 Chronicles 22:6-19](/1_chronicles/22-6-19 "1 Chronicles 22:6-19 - David's Charge to Solomon and Israel")). The passage echoes the foundational divine revelation given to David through the prophet Nathan in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), where God, while acknowledging David's pious desire, explicitly decreed that David himself would not build the Temple due to his involvement in warfare, but rather his son, a man of peace, would undertake the task. Here, David faithfully transmits this divine decree, along with the vast accumulated resources and detailed architectural plans, ensuring the seamless continuation of God's work through the next generation. The verse powerfully illustrates David's humble acceptance of God's sovereign will, despite his own fervent personal desire.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** David's reign marked a golden age for Israel, as he successfully united the tribes and established Jerusalem as both the political and spiritual capital. Prior to this, the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's tangible presence among His people, had been housed in the temporary Tabernacle, a portable tent-sanctuary since the Exodus. For a powerful and prosperous king like David, residing in a grand palace of cedar while God's dwelling remained a tent was perceived as an incongruity, deeply fueling his desire to construct a permanent, glorious temple. In the broader ancient Near East, it was a common practice for kings to build magnificent temples to their deities, thereby signifying their piety, demonstrating their power, and reinforcing the stability and divine favor of their kingdom. David's intention, however, was uniquely focused on honoring the one true God, Yahweh, distinct from the polytheistic practices of surrounding nations. The concept of building "unto the name of the LORD" was profoundly significant, indicating a dedication not to contain God (who is omnipresent and transcendent) but to establish a designated, consecrated place where His character, authority, and manifest presence would be invoked and honored, serving as the central hub for Israelite worship, pilgrimage, and national identity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse intricately weaves together several profound theological and narrative themes. Foremost is **Devotion and Desire**, as David's heartfelt intention to build for God is clearly articulated, showcasing his deep piety and the sincerity of his worship. It also highlights the crucial tension between **Divine Sovereignty versus Human Intention**; while David's desire was noble and divinely inspired, God's ultimate plan dictated that Solomon, not David, would be the builder, demonstrating that God's purposes prevail and are executed according to His perfect timing and through His chosen instruments (as further elaborated in [1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Reason for David Not Building the Temple")). Furthermore, the verse encapsulates the vital themes of **Preparation and Succession**, with David actively preparing his son Solomon—not just materially through gathering resources, but also spiritually through instruction and commissioning—for this monumental task. This act of passing on a divine commission and a spiritual legacy is a powerful biblical example of intergenerational stewardship. The phrase "unto the name of the LORD my God" also brings forth the overarching theme of **God's Presence and Character**, emphasizing that the Temple was to be a sacred space where God's essence, glory, and covenant faithfulness would be manifested, revered, and encountered by His people, rather than being merely a physical edifice.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **mind (Hebrew, _lêbâb'_):** The Hebrew word `lêbâb` (H3824), often translated as "heart," encompasses the entirety of the inner person—intellect, will, emotions, and conscience. When David states, "it was in my mind," it signifies not a fleeting thought but a deep-seated, earnest desire, a profound intention originating from his innermost being. It speaks to his sincere devotion, the purity of his motive, and the long-standing nature of this aspiration.
* **build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** The Hebrew term `bânâh` (H1129) is a primitive root meaning "to build," used both literally and figuratively. In this context, it refers to the physical construction of the Temple, a permanent and magnificent structure. However, the root can also imply establishing or obtaining children, linking the idea of physical construction to the broader concept of establishing a legacy or a "house" in the dynastic sense, though here the focus is clearly on the physical edifice.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** The Hebrew term `bayith` (H1004) primarily denotes a physical dwelling or building, and here it unequivocally refers to the Temple, a grand sanctuary intended as a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and the central place of worship for Israel. While `bayith` can also refer to a dynasty or lineage (as in God's promise to build David a "house" in [2 Samuel 7:11](/2_samuel/7-11 "2 Samuel 7:11 - God's Promise of a House for David")), in 1 Chronicles 22:7, the immediate context points to the physical structure. The broader concept of God establishing His presence through a physical dwelling is intertwined with the establishment of David's royal line.
* **name (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** The Hebrew word `shêm` (H8034) is far more than a mere label; it encapsulates the essence, character, reputation, and authority of a person or, in this case, God. To build a house "unto the name of the LORD" means to dedicate it entirely to Yahweh's glory, to be a place where His character is proclaimed, His authority acknowledged, and His manifest presence is honored. It signifies that the Temple was not meant to contain God (who is omnipresent) but to be the focal point where His people could encounter Him and worship Him according to His revealed nature.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And David said to Solomon, My son":** This opening phrase establishes the setting as a direct, intimate, and authoritative communication from a father to his son, and from a reigning king to his designated successor. The tender address "My son" underscores the paternal affection and the solemnity of the moment, imbuing the subsequent words with both familial love and royal authority, highlighting the intergenerational transfer of a sacred, divine mandate.
* **"as for me, it was in my mind":** This clause reveals David's personal, deeply cherished desire and long-held intention. The phrase "it was in my mind" (literally, "it was upon my heart" or "in my heart," using `lêbâb`) conveys the earnestness and long-standing nature of his aspiration. It emphasizes that the initiative to build a house for God originated from David's own sincere devotion and not initially from a direct divine command, though God later affirmed and redirected this noble desire. This sets up the crucial contrast with God's subsequent revelation that David would not be the one to build the Temple.
* **"to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God":** This final clause specifies the object and profound purpose of David's desire. The "house" is unequivocally the Temple, a permanent and magnificent dwelling intended as the central place for God's presence and worship. The crucial qualifier "unto the name of the LORD my God" clarifies the profound theological purpose: the Temple was to be a place where God's character, glory, and authority would be honored, invoked, and manifested, rather than a literal dwelling that could contain an omnipresent deity. The possessive "my God" further emphasizes David's deeply personal covenant relationship with Yahweh, grounding his desire in a fervent and intimate faith.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Direct Discourse**, presenting David's solemn words verbatim to Solomon. This technique lends immediacy and authenticity to the narrative, allowing the reader to directly apprehend David's personal confession and the gravity of his charge. The use of the vocative "My son" at the outset of the direct address immediately establishes a tone of paternal instruction, deep affection, and the formal context of succession. There is also a significant use of **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** in the phrase "house unto the name of the LORD," where "name" stands in for God's entire being, His revealed character, His reputation, and His manifest presence. Similarly, "house" is a specific reference to the Temple, the physical structure where that presence would be honored. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful instance of **Foreshadowing**, setting the narrative stage for the monumental task of Temple construction that will define much of Solomon's early reign, as meticulously detailed in subsequent chapters of both Chronicles and Kings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 22:7 profoundly illustrates the tension between human desire and divine sovereignty, a recurring and central theme throughout biblical narrative. David's noble intention to build a house for God stemmed from a pure heart of devotion, reflecting a deep understanding of God's holiness and His worthiness of a permanent, glorious dwelling. Yet, God, in His infinite wisdom and according to His perfect plan, had a different instrument for the builder, choosing Solomon, a man of peace, to construct the Temple. This highlights that while God values the sincere desires and pure intentions of His people, His ultimate purposes are accomplished according to His perfect timing and through His chosen instruments, often in ways that transcend or redirect human plans. The verse also underscores the vital importance of intergenerational faithfulness and stewardship, as David, despite his personal disappointment, diligently prepared his son and the entire nation for the fulfillment of God's will. It teaches us that true service to God involves aligning our aspirations with His revealed will, even if it means humbly relinquishing our own cherished plans for the greater glory of His name and the advancement of His kingdom.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-13](/2_samuel/7-12-13 "God's Promise to David Regarding His Son Building the Temple")
* [1 Kings 8:27](/1_kings/8-27 "Solomon's Prayer Acknowledging God's Omnipresence")
* [Isaiah 66:1-2](/isaiah/66-1-2 "Isaiah 66:1-2 - God's True Dwelling Place and His Regard for the Humble")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
David's poignant confession in 1 Chronicles 22:7 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It teaches us that God deeply values our intentions and the earnest desires of our hearts to serve Him, even if the specific outcomes or the means of accomplishment differ from our initial vision. David's fervent desire to build for God was commendable and born of genuine devotion, and though God chose another to complete the physical structure, David's heart for worship and his extensive preparations were clearly honored and blessed. This narrative encourages us to pursue noble endeavors for God's glory with wholehearted devotion, trusting that He sees and affirms our pure motives. Furthermore, the account emphasizes the crucial need for humility and complete submission to God's sovereign plan. David's willingness to relinquish his personal ambition and instead diligently prepare his son for the task demonstrates a mature and exemplary faith that prioritizes God's ultimate will above personal fulfillment or recognition. It challenges us to honestly ask ourselves: Are we willing to step aside, to prepare the way for others, or to wholeheartedly support a vision that God has given to someone else, even if we initially felt called to it ourselves? Finally, this verse is a powerful call to intergenerational stewardship. David didn't just passively accept God's decision; he actively equipped Solomon, ensuring the spiritual legacy and the continuity of God's work. We are likewise called to intentionally invest in the next generation, mentoring, discipling, and empowering them to carry forward the mission of God, passing on not just material resources but, more importantly, a fervent love for the Lord and His eternal purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What noble desires or plans do I currently have for serving God, and how willing am I to submit them fully to His sovereign will and perfect timing?**
* **In what specific areas of my life or ministry might God be calling me to prepare the way for others, rather than to be the primary executor or recipient of recognition?**
* **How am I actively investing in and equipping the next generation of believers or leaders within my family, church, or community, passing on a spiritual legacy?**
* **How does David's profound focus on building "unto the name of the LORD" inform and shape my understanding of true worship and service to God today?**

### FAQ
**Why was David not allowed to build the Temple, despite his strong desire?**

Answer: God revealed through the prophet Nathan that David, though a man after God's own heart, had shed much blood in warfare (as explicitly stated in [1 Chronicles 22:8](/1_chronicles/22-8 "1 Chronicles 22:8 - God's Reason for David Not Building the Temple")). God desired the Temple, which was to be a symbol of peace, holiness, and His abiding presence, to be built by a man of peace. This sacred task was therefore reserved for David's son, Solomon, whose very name means "peace" (derived from the Hebrew word _shalom_). This divine decision underscores God's meticulous care for the symbolism, purity, and spiritual significance associated with His dwelling place and the instruments He chooses for His work.

**What does "to build an house unto the name of the LORD" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase carries profound theological significance. It does not imply that God, who is omnipresent and cannot be contained by any physical structure ([1 Kings 8:27](/1_kings/8-27 "1 Kings 8:27 - Solomon's Prayer Acknowledging God's Omnipresence")), would literally dwell within the Temple walls as if confined. Instead, "the name of the LORD" refers to God's revealed character, His essence, His authority, His reputation, and His manifest presence. Building "unto His name" meant dedicating the Temple entirely to His glory, establishing it as the central place where His people would worship Him, invoke His name, experience His unique covenantal presence, and encounter Him according to His revealed nature. It was to be a consecrated space where God would meet with His people, receive their worship, and reveal more of His divine attributes.

**Did God still value David's desire to build the Temple, even though he wasn't allowed to do it?**

Answer: Absolutely. The biblical text implicitly and explicitly affirms that God highly valued David's sincere desire and pure intentions. In [2 Samuel 7:3](/2_samuel/7-3 "2 Samuel 7:3 - Nathan's Initial Approval of David's Desire"), the prophet Nathan initially encouraged David's intention, and even when God revealed His alternative plan, He did so with a magnificent promise to build David a lasting "house" (dynasty), indicating His favor and deep appreciation for David's heart of devotion. God consistently looks at the heart and values genuine devotion and good intentions, even when His sovereign plan directs the execution through different means or individuals. David's extensive preparations for the Temple, including gathering vast materials and organizing the Levites, were clearly blessed and honored by God, demonstrating His approval of David's underlying desire.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
David's earnest desire to build a "house unto the name of the LORD" finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The physical Temple, though glorious and divinely ordained, was always a shadow, a type pointing to a greater spiritual reality: God's desire to dwell truly, intimately, and permanently among His people. This divine desire is perfectly realized in Christ, who is the true and ultimate Temple of God. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") powerfully declares, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us," the Greek word for "dwelling" (σκηνόω, _skēnoō_) intentionally evokes the Tabernacle, God's mobile dwelling place among Israel. In Jesus, the fullness of God's character, essence, and manifest presence—His very "name"—dwelt bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - The Fullness of God in Christ")). He is the unique place where God truly meets humanity, the very embodiment of God's presence on earth, the ultimate revelation of God's name. Furthermore, Jesus, the quintessential "man of peace" ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), is the one who builds God's spiritual house—His Church—composed of all believers, who are now living stones built into a spiritual temple where God dwells by His Holy Spirit ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House") and [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as God's Dwelling")). David's unfulfilled desire for a physical dwelling is thus superseded by the reality of Christ, who not only is the Temple but also enables all who believe in Him to become part of God's eternal dwelling, culminating in the New Jerusalem where there is no need for a temple, "for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple" ([Revelation 21:22-23](/revelation/21-22-23 "Revelation 21:22-23 - No Temple in New Jerusalem")).

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

Psalms 132:5

Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty [God] of Jacob.

Deuteronomy 12:5

¶ But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, [even] unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

Deuteronomy 12:11

Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD:

2 Chronicles 6:7

Now it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.

2 Chronicles 6:9

Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house; but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins, he shall build the house for my name.

1 Kings 8:16

Since the day that I brought forth my people Israel out of Egypt, I chose no city out of all the tribes of Israel to build an house, that my name might be therein; but I chose David to be over my people Israel.

1 Kings 8:20

And the LORD hath performed his word that he spake, and I am risen up in the room of David my father, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the LORD promised, and have built an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel.