1 Chronicles 29:23

¶ Then Solomon sat on the throne of the LORD as king instead of David his father, and prospered; and all Israel obeyed him.

Then Solomon {H8010} sat on {H3427} the throne {H3678} of the LORD {H3068} as king {H4428} instead of David {H1732} his father {H1}, and prospered {H6743}; and all Israel {H3478} obeyed {H8085} him.

Shlomo sat on the throne of ADONAI as king in place of David his father and prospered, and all Isra'el obeyed him.

So Solomon sat on the throne of the LORD as king in place of his father David. He prospered, and all Israel obeyed him.

Then Solomon sat on the throne of Jehovah as king instead of David his father, and prospered; and all Israel obeyed him.

Commentary

Context

First Chronicles 29:23 concludes a significant section detailing the transfer of power from King David to his son, Solomon. The preceding verses highlight David's elaborate preparations for the building of the Temple in Jerusalem, his fervent prayer of thanksgiving and blessing (1 Chronicles 29:10-19), and the people's generous contributions. This verse marks the formal and divinely sanctioned enthronement of Solomon, not merely as a political successor, but as the one chosen by God to continue David's legacy and oversee the construction of the Temple.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment and Sovereignty: The phrase "sat on the throne of the LORD" is crucial. It signifies that Solomon's kingship was not merely a human political transfer but a divine appointment. God Himself established the king over Israel, making the earthly throne a representation of God's own rule. This concept reinforces God's ultimate authority over all earthly leadership.
  • Succession and Continuity: This verse marks the peaceful and blessed transition from David, a beloved king, to his son Solomon. It emphasizes the continuity of God's plan for Israel and the Davidic dynasty, fulfilling the promise made to David in 2 Samuel 7:12-16 regarding his offspring ruling after him.
  • Prosperity and Obedience: Solomon's reign begins with immediate success and widespread acceptance: "and prospered; and all Israel obeyed him." This initial prosperity and unity are presented as a clear sign of God's favor and blessing upon His chosen king, setting the stage for the glorious early years of Solomon's reign, particularly the building of the Temple.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "throne of the LORD" (Hebrew: kisseh Yahweh) is highly significant. It elevates the earthly kingship in Israel beyond mere human governance, indicating that the king ruled as God's representative. This concept underscores the theocratic nature of Israel's government, where God was the true King, and the human monarch served under His authority. Solomon's prosperity (Hebrew: yatslach) indicates success, good fortune, and progress, often implying divine blessing for obedience and right actions.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse offers several insights:

  • God's Hand in Leadership: It reminds us that God is sovereign over all earthly leaders and transitions of power. Even in secular contexts, His ultimate plan unfolds. We are encouraged to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
  • Spiritual Legacy: David meticulously prepared for Solomon's reign and the Temple building, demonstrating the importance of passing on a spiritual legacy to the next generation. Parents and spiritual mentors have a vital role in equipping others for service.
  • Obedience and Blessing: Solomon's initial prosperity was directly linked to the obedience of Israel and, implicitly, his own initial walk with God. While not a guarantee of material wealth, faithfulness to God often brings spiritual and sometimes tangible blessings, fostering unity and progress in God's work.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 2:12

    ¶ Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly.

  • 1 Chronicles 28:5

    And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel.

  • Psalms 132:11

    ¶ The LORD hath sworn [in] truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.

  • Romans 13:1

    ¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

  • Isaiah 9:6

    For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

  • Isaiah 9:7

    Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

  • 1 Chronicles 22:11

    Now, my son, the LORD be with thee; and prosper thou, and build the house of the LORD thy God, as he hath said of thee.
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