1 Chronicles 29:22

KJV

And did eat and drink before the LORD on that day with great gladness. And they made Solomon the son of David king the second time, and anointed [him] unto the LORD [to be] the chief governor, and Zadok [to be] priest.

KJV (with Strong's)

And did eat {H398} and drink {H8354} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068} on that day {H3117} with great {H1419} gladness {H8057}. And they made Solomon {H8010} the son {H1121} of David {H1732} king {H4427} the second time {H8145}, and anointed {H4886} him unto the LORD {H3068} to be the chief governor {H5057}, and Zadok {H6659} to be priest {H3548}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They ate and drank before ADONAI that day with great joy. Then, for the second time, they made Shlomo the son of David king, anointing him before ADONAI to be king, and Tzadok to be cohen.

Berean Standard Bible

That day they ate and drank with great joy in the presence of the LORD. Then, for a second time, they designated David’s son Solomon as king, anointing him before the LORD as ruler, and Zadok as the priest.

American Standard Version

and did eat and drink before Jehovah on that day with great gladness. And they made Solomon the son of David king the second time, and anointed him unto Jehovah to be prince, and Zadok to be priest.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Chronicles 29:22 culminates a momentous period in Israel's history, depicting the joyful and solemn transition of power from King David to his son, Solomon. This verse captures the communal celebration where the people of Israel ate and drank with profound gladness in the presence of the LORD, formally affirming Solomon's kingship for the second time and anointing him as chief governor. Concurrently, Zadok was consecrated as priest, solidifying the divine order for both the civil and spiritual leadership of the nation as it prepared for the monumental task of building the Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the grand finale to a chapter rich in significant events. [1 Chronicles 29](/1_chronicles/29 "1 Chronicles 29 - David's Final Instructions and Offerings") opens with David's passionate appeal for contributions towards the Temple, followed by the people's overwhelmingly generous response (vv. 6-9). David then offers a magnificent prayer of thanksgiving and blessing, acknowledging God's sovereignty and provision (vv. 10-19). The people's worship, sacrifices, and feasting "before the LORD" immediately precede this verse (vv. 20-21), setting the stage for the formal, public affirmation of Solomon's reign. This second anointing contrasts with the first, more urgent one described in [1 Kings 1:39](/1_kings/1-39 "1 Kings 1:39 - Solomon's First Anointing"), which was a swift response to Adonijah's attempted usurpation. Here, the anointing is a public, national endorsement, solidifying the succession in the presence of God and all Israel, thereby ensuring stability and divine blessing for the future of the kingdom and the Temple project.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The act of anointing was a crucial ritual in the ancient Near East, symbolizing divine appointment and the endowment of authority. Kings and priests were typically anointed with oil, signifying their consecration for a sacred office and often implying the presence of God's Spirit empowering them for their duties. The communal eating and drinking "before the LORD" was a common practice in covenant renewal ceremonies and festive occasions, signifying fellowship with God and one another, as seen in [Exodus 24:9-11](/exodus/24-9-11 "Exodus 24:9-11 - Moses and the Elders Eat Before God"). This public feast served to legitimize Solomon's rule in the eyes of the people and before God. The anointing of Zadok as priest was equally significant. Zadok, a descendant of Eleazar, was of the legitimate Aaronic line, and his confirmation as chief priest alongside Solomon ensured the proper functioning of the sacrificial system and the spiritual leadership of the nation, especially in light of Abiathar's eventual removal from the high priesthood due to his support of Adonijah ([1 Kings 2:26-27](/1_kings/2-26-27 "1 Kings 2:26-27 - Abiathar's Dismissal")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several major themes central to the books of Chronicles. First, it highlights **Unified Celebration and Worship**, demonstrating the nation's corporate joy and devotion as they acknowledged God's hand in their leadership transition. The "great gladness" underscores the spiritual unity and acceptance of God's chosen leader. Second, it emphasizes **Solomon's Confirmed Kingship**, establishing his reign with both divine and popular consent as "chief governor" under God's ultimate sovereignty, thereby fulfilling God's promise to David concerning his dynasty ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")). Third, the **Established Priesthood** through Zadok's anointing signifies the divine order for both spiritual and governmental leadership, ensuring the continuity of proper worship and adherence to the Mosaic Law. Finally, the verse underscores **Divine Order and Succession**, illustrating God's meticulous plan for the leadership of His people and the stability of the kingdom, which was crucial for the impending construction of the Temple, the central place of worship for Israel ([1 Chronicles 28:10](/1_chronicles/28-10 "1 Chronicles 28:10 - David's Charge to Solomon Regarding the Temple")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _mashach'_):** This verb (H4886) means "to rub with oil, i.e., to anoint; by implication, to consecrate." In biblical contexts, anointing symbolized divine selection, setting apart for a sacred office (king, priest, prophet), and the impartation of divine authority and enablement. Solomon was anointed "unto the LORD," emphasizing that his authority and commission were ultimately derived from God, not merely from human choice.
* **Chief Governor (Hebrew, _nagid'_):** The term (H5057) refers to "a commander (as occupying the front), civil, military or religious; generally (abstractly, plural), honorable themes." While "king" (מֶלֶךְ, _melek_) is also used for Solomon, _nagid_ often carries the nuance of a divinely appointed leader who serves under God's ultimate sovereignty. It highlights that even the king is God's servant, leading the people on God's behalf, emphasizing the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy.
* **Gladness (Hebrew, _simchâh'_):** This noun (H8057) denotes "blithesomeness or glee, (religious or festival)." In this context, it describes a profound, communal, and spiritual joy experienced by the entire assembly. This was not merely human celebration but a gladness rooted in God's faithfulness, His provision of a new king, and the continuity of His covenant promises.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And did eat and drink before the LORD on that day with great gladness":** This clause describes a communal feast, a significant act of corporate worship and celebration. Eating and drinking "before the LORD" signifies participation in a sacred meal, often associated with covenant affirmation or thanksgiving. The "great gladness" underscores the overwhelming joy and unity of the people, celebrating God's provision and the peaceful transition of power.
* **"And they made Solomon the son of David king the second time":** This highlights the formal and public nature of Solomon's enthronement. His first anointing was a swift, necessary action to thwart Adonijah's rebellion, as described in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - Adonijah's Rebellion and Solomon's First Anointing"). This "second time" signifies a national, unanimous affirmation by the entire assembly, solidifying his legitimacy and ensuring broad support for his reign.
* **"and anointed [him] unto the LORD [to be] the chief governor":** This phrase details the spiritual act of consecration. Solomon was not merely appointed by men but "anointed unto the LORD," indicating that his authority was divinely sanctioned and that he was set apart for God's service. The title "chief governor" ( _nagid_ ) emphasizes his role as God's chosen leader for the nation, guiding them under divine authority.
* **"and Zadok [to be] priest":** This final clause confirms the appointment of Zadok as the legitimate high priest. His anointing alongside Solomon underscores the essential partnership between the civil and spiritual leadership in Israel. Zadok's lineage and faithfulness ensured the continuity of proper worship and adherence to God's covenant, establishing the priestly order for the Temple era.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound significance. **Repetition** is subtly used through the phrase "the second time" Solomon was made king, emphasizing the deliberate and public nature of this coronation, distinguishing it from the earlier, more urgent anointing. **Symbolism** is rich in the actions described: the "eating and drinking before the LORD" symbolizes communal fellowship, covenant participation, and divine blessing; the act of "anointing" symbolizes divine selection, consecration, and the impartation of authority and the Holy Spirit. The entire scene functions as a powerful **Climax** to David's reign and the preparations for the Temple, marking a definitive transition. Furthermore, the harmonious establishment of both king and priest creates a sense of **Balance** and divine order, essential for the stability and spiritual health of the nation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, human responsibility in leadership, and the nature of corporate worship. It demonstrates God's faithfulness in establishing David's dynasty and providing for the spiritual and governmental needs of His people. The communal gladness underscores the importance of joy in worship and the unity that comes from acknowledging God's hand in all things. The anointing of both king and priest highlights the dual leadership structure God ordained for Israel, ensuring that both civil governance and spiritual guidance operated under divine authority. This orderly transition, marked by public affirmation and spiritual consecration, speaks to God's desire for stability and proper order within His covenant community, setting the stage for the building of the Temple and the flourishing of the nation under God's rule.

* [Psalm 2:6](/psalm/2-6 "Psalm 2:6 - God's Anointed King")
* [Exodus 24:9-11](/exodus/24-9-11 "Exodus 24:9-11 - Moses and Elders Eat Before God")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 1 Chronicles 29:22 offers timeless principles for believers today. The "great gladness" of the people reminds us of the profound joy found in corporate worship and celebrating God's faithfulness and provision together. Like ancient Israel, we are called to approach God with joyful hearts, recognizing His sovereignty in all aspects of life, including leadership transitions and communal endeavors. The careful establishment of Solomon's and Zadok's roles underscores God's concern for legitimate, godly, and Spirit-empowered leadership in both the church and society. It challenges us to pray for our leaders, to submit to righteous authority, and to seek out those who are "anointed unto the LORD" for service. The orderly and public transition of power serves as a model for healthy succession and leadership within any organization, emphasizing preparation, prayer, and public affirmation, ensuring continuity and stability for God's work. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to trust in God's overarching plan, knowing that He faithfully provides leaders and establishes order for His people, guiding them toward His ultimate purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the "great gladness" of the people in this verse challenge or affirm your own experience of corporate worship and celebration of God's work?**
* **What can we learn from the orderly transition of power from David to Solomon about leadership succession in the church or other organizations today?**
* **In what ways does the anointing of both king and priest in this verse speak to the importance of both spiritual and civil leadership in society?**

### FAQ
**Why was Solomon anointed "the second time"?**

Answer: Solomon's first anointing, recounted in [1 Kings 1:39](/1_kings/1-39 "1 Kings 1:39 - Solomon's First Anointing"), was a swift and necessary response to the attempted usurpation of the throne by his half-brother Adonijah. It was primarily a private, urgent act orchestrated by David, Nathan the prophet, and Zadok the priest to secure the succession. The "second time" anointing in [1 Chronicles 29:22](/1_chronicles/29-22 "1 Chronicles 29:22 - Solomon's Second Anointing") was a public, national, and formal affirmation by the entire assembly of Israel, following David's final instructions and the people's generous contributions for the Temple. This public ceremony served to legitimize Solomon's rule in the eyes of all Israel, ensuring broad popular and divine consent, and marking a peaceful, unified transition of power.

**What is the significance of Zadok's anointing as priest alongside Solomon's kingship?**

Answer: The anointing of Zadok as priest alongside Solomon's kingship signifies the divine order for both the civil and spiritual leadership of Israel. Zadok was a descendant of Aaron through Eleazar, representing the legitimate priestly line. His anointing confirmed his position as the chief priest, ensuring the proper functioning of the sacrificial system and adherence to the Mosaic Law. This was particularly significant because Abiathar, the other high priest at the time, had sided with Adonijah in the attempted coup. Zadok's loyalty to David and Solomon, and his legitimate lineage, secured his place as the primary high priest, a role confirmed later in [1 Kings 2:35](/1_kings/2-35 "1 Kings 2:35 - Zadok Confirmed as High Priest"), establishing a stable and divinely sanctioned spiritual authority alongside the monarchy.

**What does the title "chief governor" imply for Solomon's reign?**

Answer: The title "chief governor" (Hebrew: _nagid_) for Solomon emphasizes his role as a divinely appointed leader who serves under God's ultimate sovereignty. While Solomon was indeed a "king" (_melek_), the term _nagid_ often highlights that the human ruler is God's chosen instrument, leading the nation on God's behalf. It underscores the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy, where the king was not an absolute monarch but a steward of God's kingdom. This title reinforces the idea that Solomon's authority was derived from God and that he was accountable to God for his rule, setting the stage for his responsibility to build the Temple and administer justice according to God's laws.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The events of 1 Chronicles 29:22, particularly the anointing of Solomon as king and Zadok as priest, find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Solomon, the son of David, anointed as "chief governor," serves as a type of the greater Son of David, Jesus, who is the true and eternal King. Unlike Solomon, whose reign eventually saw division and decline, Jesus' kingdom "is not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")) and will have no end ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - The Eternal Reign of Jesus")). He is the one of whom it is said, "Something greater than Solomon is here" ([Matthew 12:42](/matthew/12-42 "Matthew 12:42 - Something Greater Than Solomon")). Furthermore, just as Solomon was chosen to build the physical Temple, Jesus builds the true spiritual Temple, His Church, composed of living stones ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones of the Spiritual House")). Similarly, Zadok's anointing as priest foreshadows Jesus' perfect and eternal priesthood. While Zadok was part of the Levitical system, which required continuous sacrifices and a succession of priests, Jesus is our High Priest "after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Jesus, a Priest Forever After the Order of Melchizedek")), offering a single, perfect sacrifice for sins once for all ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Single Sacrifice")). He is both our King and our High Priest, reigning eternally and interceding for us, establishing a new covenant where believers themselves become "a royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), participating in the "great gladness" of His eternal reign.

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 23:1

¶ So when David was old and full of days, he made Solomon his son king over Israel.

1 Kings 2:35

¶ And the king put Benaiah the son of Jehoiada in his room over the host: and Zadok the priest did the king put in the room of Abiathar.

1 Kings 1:34

And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel: and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save king Solomon.

1 Kings 1:39

And Zadok the priest took an horn of oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon. And they blew the trumpet; and all the people said, God save king Solomon.

Exodus 24:11

And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he laid not his hand: also they saw God, and did eat and drink.

Ecclesiastes 8:15

Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.

1 Kings 1:31

Then Bathsheba bowed with [her] face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever.