1 Chronicles 29:24

KJV

And all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David, submitted themselves unto Solomon the king.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all the princes {H8269}, and the mighty men {H1368}, and all the sons {H1121} likewise of king {H4428} David {H1732}, submitted themselves {H5414}{H3027}{H8478} unto Solomon {H8010} the king {H4428}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the leaders, the warrior-heroes and likewise the sons of King David submitted themselves to Shlomo the king.

Berean Standard Bible

All the officials and mighty men, as well as all of King David’s sons, pledged their allegiance to King Solomon.

American Standard Version

And all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David, submitted themselves unto Solomon the king.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The definitive and peaceful transfer of power from King David to his son Solomon, solidifying Solomon's divinely appointed kingship in the eyes of all Israel's leadership. This pivotal moment, occurring immediately after Solomon's enthronement on "the throne of the LORD," underscores the widespread acceptance and unified loyalty of the nation's most influential figures—including princes, military commanders, and even David's other royal sons—ensuring stability and continuity for the nascent kingdom and its grand project of building the Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic culmination of [1 Chronicles 29](/1_chronicles/29 "1 Chronicles 29 - David's Final Charge and Solomon's Enthronement"), a chapter that meticulously details David's final acts as king, his profound prayer of thanksgiving, and the people's generous contributions for the Temple. Specifically, it immediately follows [1 Chronicles 29:22-23](/1_chronicles/29-22-23 "1 Chronicles 29:22-23 - Solomon's Second Anointing and Enthronement"), which describes Solomon's second, public anointing and his sitting "on the throne of the LORD as king instead of David his father." Verse 24, therefore, acts as the essential narrative resolution, providing irrefutable evidence of the complete and unified acceptance of Solomon's authority by all key societal echelons. This smooth transition, emphasized by the Chronicler, stands in stark contrast to the turbulent succession attempts recorded elsewhere, such as Adonijah's failed bid for the throne in [1 Kings 1](/1_kings/1 "1 Kings 1 - Adonijah's Attempted Usurpation").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The succession of kings in the ancient Near East was frequently a period of immense instability, often marked by violent power struggles, assassinations, and civil unrest as various factions vied for control. The Chronicler, writing centuries later, intentionally highlights the unique and divinely orchestrated smoothness of Solomon's transition. David's meticulous preparations, including the public anointing and the immense national outpouring of resources for the Temple project, created an atmosphere of unity and divine favor that minimized potential challenges. The act of "submitting themselves" (literally "giving the hand") was a widely recognized ancient Near Eastern gesture of fealty, signifying a solemn pledge of loyalty and allegiance to a new sovereign. This public demonstration by "all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David" was absolutely crucial for establishing the legitimacy and stability of Solomon's rule, effectively preempting any potential challenges from disgruntled factions or rival claimants from within the royal family.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Chronicles 29:24](/1_chronicles/29-24 "1 Chronicles 29:24 - All Submit to Solomon") powerfully reinforces several overarching themes central to the Chronicler's theological narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Legitimate Succession**, emphasizing that Solomon's reign was not merely a human arrangement but a divinely appointed one, a truth echoed in David's earlier declaration in [1 Chronicles 28:5](/1_chronicles/28-5 "1 Chronicles 28:5 - God's Choice of Solomon") that God had chosen Solomon to sit on His throne. Secondly, the verse highlights the critical theme of **Unity and Order**, showcasing a rare and vital consensus among Israel's political, military, and royal elite. This unity was indispensable for the kingdom's stability and the successful execution of the Temple project, standing in stark contrast to the disunity that plagued later periods of Israel's history. Finally, the widespread submission signifies the theme of **Divine Authority and Acceptance**, demonstrating that the people and their leaders recognized God's hand in establishing Solomon's throne, thereby linking the earthly monarchy directly to divine will and purpose, a foundational concept in the Chronicler's theology of kingship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Submitted themselves (Hebrew, _nâthan yâd_):** This phrase, literally "gave the hand" or "extended the hand," is a powerful Hebrew idiom (H5414 for _nâthan_ "to give" and H3027 for _yâd_ "hand") signifying a pledge of loyalty, allegiance, and often an oath of fealty. It denotes an active, willing, and binding commitment, not merely passive acceptance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, extending the hand could represent a covenant, a promise, or an act of surrender and submission to a superior authority. Here, it conveys a proactive and public declaration of support and service to King Solomon, solidifying his position and legitimacy.
* **Princes (Hebrew, _śar_):** This term (H8269) refers to high-ranking officials, leaders, or chiefs, encompassing both civil and military commanders. Their submission was crucial as they represented the various tribes and administrative divisions of Israel, holding significant influence and power. Their allegiance signaled a top-down acceptance of Solomon's rule across the entire national structure.
* **Mighty men (Hebrew, _gibbôwr_):** This term (H1368) refers to David's elite warriors, seasoned military commanders, and heroes who had fought alongside him. Their loyalty was paramount for maintaining military control and preventing any armed rebellion. Their submission ensured the unified support of the armed forces, essential for the security of the kingdom and the peaceful continuation of the Davidic dynasty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all the princes,"**: This clause specifically identifies the highest-ranking civil and military leaders of Israel. Their inclusion emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the submission, demonstrating that the entire administrative and political structure of the kingdom acknowledged Solomon's authority. This was not a partial or reluctant acceptance but a full, public endorsement, vital for national stability.
* **"and the mighty men,"**: This refers to the elite military personnel and seasoned warriors who formed the backbone of David's army. Their allegiance was critical for ensuring national security and preventing any potential military coup or civil unrest. Their submission underscores the fact that Solomon had the full backing of the armed forces, a decisive factor in securing his reign.
* **"and all the sons likewise of king David,"**: This is a particularly significant detail, highlighting the resolution of internal dynastic rivalries. David had many sons (H1121 for _bên_), some of whom (like Adonijah) had previously attempted to usurp the throne. Their submission here signifies the unified acceptance of Solomon (H8010) as the legitimate heir, preventing future challenges from within the royal family itself. This detail underscores the completeness of the transition and the absence of lingering dissent.
* **"submitted themselves unto Solomon the king."**: This culminating phrase encapsulates the central action of the verse. The verb "submitted themselves" (nathan yad) conveys an active, willing, and public act of allegiance. It confirms that the transfer of power was not forced but willingly accepted by all key stakeholders, establishing Solomon's reign on a foundation of national unity and divine sanction, with Solomon (H8010) now recognized as the legitimate king (H4428).

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several **Literary Devices** to underscore the profound significance of this moment. The **Repetition** of "all" ("all the princes," "all the mighty men," "all the sons") creates a powerful sense of universality and completeness, emphasizing that the submission was total and without exception. This use of **Hyperbole** or exaggeration serves to highlight the overwhelming consensus and the divine favor upon Solomon's succession, portraying it as a divinely ordained and universally accepted event. The phrase "submitted themselves" (nathan yad) is a vivid **Idiom**, a culturally specific expression that carries a deeper meaning than its literal translation, conveying a binding pledge of loyalty and active allegiance. Finally, the verse functions as a narrative **Confirmation**, validating the legitimacy of Solomon's enthronement described in the preceding verse and serving as a definitive resolution to the question of succession, assuring the reader of the stability and divine sanction of the Davidic line.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 29:24 is a powerful testament to the divine establishment of leadership and the importance of unity in God's kingdom. The unanimous submission of Israel's most influential figures to Solomon underscores the Chronicler's theological emphasis on order, legitimate authority, and the blessing that flows from obedience to God's chosen leader. This peaceful transition, in stark contrast to the typical turbulent successions of the ancient world, highlights God's sovereign hand in establishing the Davidic dynasty and ensuring its continuity for His purposes, particularly the building of the Temple. It teaches that when God appoints a leader, true faithfulness involves recognizing and supporting that authority for the greater good of the community and the advancement of God's plans.

* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Hebrews 13:17 - Obey Your Leaders")
* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse offers profound insights for believers today, reminding us of the importance of recognizing and honoring legitimate authority, whether in the church, the home, or civil society. The unity displayed by Israel's leaders in submitting to Solomon, despite potential personal ambitions or rivalries, serves as a powerful model for how communities should navigate transitions and support established leadership for the common good and the fulfillment of God's purposes. It challenges us to set aside personal agendas for the sake of corporate harmony and the advancement of God's kingdom. Just as Solomon's reign was divinely ordained for the building of the Temple, so too are leaders today often placed in positions of influence to facilitate God's work. Our willing submission and cooperation with righteous authority contribute to stability, effectiveness, and the flourishing of the community, reflecting a deeper trust in God's sovereign plan and a commitment to the well-being of the collective body.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does recognizing the divine appointment of leaders (even imperfect ones) shape our attitude towards authority in our lives?**
* **In what areas of your life or community might God be calling you to greater unity and submission for a common purpose, even when it requires setting aside personal preferences?**
* **What are the practical implications of "giving the hand" (pledging active loyalty and support) to those in leadership, rather than merely passive acceptance or critical detachment?**

### FAQ
**Why was it so important for "all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David" to submit?**

Answer: This comprehensive submission was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it established the undeniable legitimacy of Solomon's reign. In ancient monarchies, succession was often contested, leading to civil war and instability. The public and unanimous allegiance of all key power-brokers—the political elite ("princes"), the military leadership ("mighty men"), and potential rival claimants from within the royal family ("sons of king David")—demonstrated that Solomon's kingship was not a mere human arrangement but divinely sanctioned and universally accepted. This prevented internal strife, ensured national stability, and allowed the focus to shift entirely to the grand project of building the Temple, as detailed in the surrounding chapters of [1 Chronicles](/1_chronicles/29 "1 Chronicles 29 - David's Final Charge and Solomon's Enthronement").

**Does this verse suggest that all authority is always good and should be blindly obeyed?**

Answer: No, this verse does not advocate for blind obedience to all authority, regardless of its nature. Rather, it highlights the importance of recognizing and submitting to *legitimate* authority, particularly when that authority is clearly established by God's providence and for God's purposes, as Solomon's was (cf. [1 Chronicles 28:5](/1_chronicles/28-5 "1 Chronicles 28:5 - God's Choice of Solomon")). The broader biblical narrative provides examples where God's people resisted unjust or idolatrous rulers (e.g., Daniel refusing to bow to idols in [Daniel 3](/daniel/3 "Daniel 3 - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Fiery Furnace")). The principle here is about supporting divinely appointed order and unity for the good of the community and the advancement of God's kingdom, not unquestioning submission to tyranny.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 29:24, depicting the complete and willing submission to King Solomon, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and universal reign of Jesus Christ. Just as Solomon sat on "the throne of the LORD" ([1 Chronicles 29:23](/1_chronicles/29-23 "1 Chronicles 29:23 - Solomon on the Throne of the LORD")), signifying a divinely appointed earthly king chosen to build God's house, so too does Christ sit at the right hand of God, exercising all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). The willing submission of "all the princes, and the mighty men, and all the sons likewise of king David" to Solomon prefigures the day when "every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")). This verse reminds us that while Solomon's reign brought a temporary peace and unity to Israel and saw the construction of the first Temple, it was but a shadow of the eternal, universal, and perfect peace and submission that will characterize the kingdom of the true Son of David, Jesus, the Messiah, to whom all creation will ultimately render homage and allegiance ([Revelation 5:13](/revelation/5-13 "Revelation 5:13 - All Creation Worships the Lamb")). He is the one who builds the true spiritual Temple, His Church ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")), and His reign will know no end ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Kingdom of Jesus")).

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 28:21

And, behold, the courses of the priests and the Levites, [even they shall be with thee] for all the service of the house of God: and [there shall be] with thee for all manner of workmanship every willing skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people [will be] wholly at thy commandment.

2 Chronicles 30:8

Now be ye not stiffnecked, as your fathers [were, but] yield yourselves unto the LORD, and enter into his sanctuary, which he hath sanctified for ever: and serve the LORD your God, that the fierceness of his wrath may turn away from you.

Ezekiel 17:18

Seeing he despised the oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these [things], he shall not escape.

Genesis 24:2

And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh:

1 Chronicles 22:17

¶ David also commanded all the princes of Israel to help Solomon his son, [saying],

1 Chronicles 2:3

The sons of Judah; Er, and Onan, and Shelah: [which] three were born unto him of the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess. And Er, the firstborn of Judah, was evil in the sight of the LORD; and he slew him.

1 Chronicles 2:9

The sons also of Hezron, that were born unto him; Jerahmeel, and Ram, and Chelubai.