1 Chronicles 29:30

KJV

With all his reign and his might, and the times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries.

KJV (with Strong's)

With all his reign {H4438} and his might {H1369}, and the times {H6256} that went over {H5674} him, and over Israel {H3478}, and over all the kingdoms {H4467} of the countries {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

with all his reign and his power, and the events that he, Isra'el and the kingdoms of other countries experienced.

Berean Standard Bible

together with all the details of his reign, his might, and the circumstances that came upon him and Israel and all the kingdoms of the lands.

American Standard Version

with all his reign and his might, and the times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 29:30 serves as the Chronicler's definitive and comprehensive concluding statement on King David's illustrious reign, encapsulating its immense breadth and profound impact. This verse highlights the totality of David's kingship, characterized by his inherent strength and authority, and underscores the vast historical scope of his influence, which extended not only over himself and the nation of Israel but also significantly over the surrounding kingdoms and geopolitical landscape of his era, all under the sovereign hand of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the absolute conclusion of the Chronicler's extensive account of King David's life and reign, immediately preceding the detailed narrative of King Solomon's ascension to the throne and the establishment of his kingdom (cf. [1 Chronicles 29:28](/1_chronicles/29-28 "1 Chronicles 29:28 - David's Good End")). It follows a summary of David's death and the mention of the historical sources from which the Chronicler drew his information (specifically, the "book of Samuel the seer," "book of Nathan the prophet," and "book of Gad the seer" in [1 Chronicles 29:29](/1_chronicles/29-29 "1 Chronicles 29:29 - Sources for David's Reign")). As the final word on David, it functions as a comprehensive summary, emphasizing the divine blessing and the enduring legacy of a king who faithfully prepared the way for the Temple and the future of God's people.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The books of Chronicles were composed in the post-exilic period, likely for the community of Israelites who had returned from Babylonian captivity. For this audience, grappling with questions of national identity, continuity, and their relationship with God, the Chronicler presented a curated history focusing on the Davidic dynasty, the Temple, and the priesthood. David's reign represented a golden age of unity, power, and divine favor, a benchmark against which later kings were measured. Culturally, David's "might" (גְּבוּרָתוֹ, *gevurato*) would have been understood in terms of military prowess, administrative effectiveness, and the ability to establish and maintain a stable kingdom in a volatile ancient Near Eastern environment. The reference to "all the kingdoms of the countries" reflects the geopolitical realities of the time, where regional powers constantly interacted through diplomacy, trade, and warfare, and David's kingdom had achieved significant regional hegemony.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several overarching themes found throughout the books of Chronicles. Firstly, it emphasizes **The Comprehensive Nature of David's Rule**, highlighting that his kingship was not merely symbolic but active, powerful, and far-reaching, encompassing every facet of governance and influence. The phrase "With all his reign and his might" speaks to the totality of his political, military, and spiritual authority, demonstrating a divinely ordained and empowered leadership that consolidated Israel's position among nations. Secondly, the verse underscores **Divine Sovereignty Over History**, particularly in the phrase "and the times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries." This points to God's active hand in shaping not only individual destinies but also the grand sweep of national and international events. The Chronicler consistently portrays history as unfolding according to God's plan, with human actions and geopolitical shifts ultimately serving His purposes (cf. [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules in the Kingdom of Men")). Finally, it highlights **David's Broad Influence**, indicating that his impact extended far beyond the geographical borders of Israel. His "might" and the "times" he lived through profoundly affected "all the kingdoms of the countries," demonstrating Israel's regional dominance and the extensive diplomatic and military interactions that characterized David's era. This sets the stage for the even wider dominion and peace experienced during [Solomon's reign](/1_kings/4 "1 Kings 4 - Solomon's Wisdom and Prosperity"), which was a direct result of David's foundational work and God's covenant with him (cf. [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - The Enduring Davidic Covenant")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **מַלְכוּתוֹ (Hebrew, _malkhuto'_):** This word, meaning "his reign" or "his kingdom," refers to David's kingship in its fullest sense—his royal office, the period of his rule, and the territory over which he exercised dominion. It encompasses his administrative authority, the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, and the consolidation of the Israelite tribes into a unified nation. The Chronicler uses this term to convey the legitimacy and divine sanction of David's rule.
* **גְּבוּרָתוֹ (Hebrew, _gevurato'_):** Translated as "his might" or "his strength," this term denotes David's power, valor, and effectiveness as a leader and warrior. It speaks to his military victories, his ability to expand Israel's borders, and his success in maintaining internal order. For the Chronicler, this "might" is not merely human strength but an indication of God's empowering presence with David (cf. [1 Chronicles 11:9](/1_chronicles/11-9 "1 Chronicles 11:9 - David's Growing Might")).
* **הָעִתִּים (Hebrew, _ha'ittim'_):** Meaning "the times" or "the seasons," this plural noun refers to the specific periods and significant events that unfolded during David's reign. It implies the full chronological span of his rule, encompassing both triumphs and challenges, prosperity and adversity. By mentioning "the times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries," the Chronicler emphasizes the historical sweep and the providential unfolding of events under God's sovereign oversight, affecting all entities involved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"With all his reign and his might":** This opening phrase functions as a comprehensive summary of David's kingship. "His reign" (מַלְכוּתוֹ) speaks to the duration and scope of his royal authority, encompassing all administrative, judicial, and political aspects. "His might" (גְּבוּרָתוֹ) refers to his inherent strength, military prowess, and the impactful effectiveness of his leadership. Together, they convey the totality and power of David's rule, emphasizing that no aspect of his kingship was insignificant or lacking in divine empowerment.
* **"and the times that went over him":** This clause refers to the entirety of David's personal experiences and the historical epochs that he lived through. It acknowledges the full spectrum of events, both personal and public, that shaped his life and rule—from his anointing as a youth, through his trials and triumphs, to his peaceful death. It suggests a divine orchestration of his life's journey.
* **"and over Israel":** This expands the scope of influence from David personally to the entire nation. It signifies that David's reign and the historical "times" he experienced profoundly impacted the people of Israel. This includes the unification of the tribes, the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, the expansion of national borders, and the spiritual reforms related to the Ark of the Covenant and Temple preparations. The Chronicler highlights the direct and comprehensive effect of David's leadership on the destiny of God's chosen people.
* **"and over all the kingdoms of the countries":** This final phrase broadens the scope even further, demonstrating David's far-reaching geopolitical influence. It indicates that his "reign and might" and the "times" of his rule had significant consequences for the surrounding nations. This would have included military victories, tribute from subjugated peoples, diplomatic relations, and the establishment of Israel as a dominant regional power, all of which contributed to the stability and prosperity of David's kingdom and set the stage for Solomon's golden age.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler employs several literary devices in 1 Chronicles 29:30 to achieve his purpose. The most prominent is **Summary Statement**, as the verse functions as a concise yet comprehensive wrap-up of David's entire reign, providing a definitive conclusion to his narrative. This summary is amplified by **Merism**, particularly in the phrase "all his reign and his might," which combines two distinct but related aspects to convey the totality and completeness of David's rule. This rhetorical device emphasizes that every dimension of his kingship, from its political structure to its military strength, was fully accounted for. Furthermore, the repetitive structure of "and over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries" creates a sense of **Climax** and **Expansion**, progressively broadening the scope of David's influence from the personal to the national and then to the international, underscoring the vastness of his impact. This expansive language also carries elements of **Grandeur** and **Hyperbole**, fitting for the Chronicler's portrayal of David as an idealized king whose reign was uniquely blessed by God and whose legacy was foundational for Israel's identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Chronicles 29:30 is a powerful theological statement about God's sovereign control over history, human leaders, and the destinies of nations. The Chronicler, writing for a post-exilic community, sought to reassure his audience that despite their current diminished state, God's covenant promises, particularly to the Davidic line, remained steadfast. This verse affirms that David's comprehensive reign, his strength, and the historical periods he navigated were all part of God's overarching plan. It underscores the belief that no king, no nation, and no "time" operates outside of divine providence. David's influence over "all the kingdoms of the countries" is not merely a testament to his military prowess but to God's faithfulness in establishing His chosen king and extending His dominion through Israel. This perspective encourages believers to see God's hand in the grand sweep of history, recognizing that even in tumultuous times, His purposes are being accomplished.

* [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - The Enduring Davidic Covenant")
* [Psalm 72:8](/psalms/72-8 "Psalm 72:8 - Universal Dominion of the King")
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This concluding verse on David's reign offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is not merely concerned with individual lives but actively orchestrates the "times" and "kingdoms" of the entire world. Just as David's "reign and might" were used by God to shape Israel and its neighbors, so too are the events of our present day, the rise and fall of nations, and the actions of leaders, all subject to God's ultimate sovereignty. This perspective fosters a deep trust in divine providence, encouraging us to look beyond immediate circumstances and discern God's larger, unfolding plan. It also challenges us to consider the lasting impact of our own lives and leadership, however small our sphere of influence may seem. Like David, who diligently prepared for the Temple and faithfully served his generation, we are called to steward our "reign and might"—our gifts, resources, and positions—for God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom, knowing that our efforts, when aligned with His will, contribute to His eternal purposes and leave a legacy that transcends our earthly existence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty over "times" and "kingdoms" (1 Chronicles 29:30) impact your view of current global events and political landscapes?**
* **In what ways can we, like David, seek to have our "reign and might" (our influence, talents, and resources) be fully consecrated and used for God's purposes in our families, communities, and workplaces?**
* **Considering the comprehensive nature of David's legacy, what kind of lasting impact or spiritual heritage do you aspire to leave for future generations?**

### FAQ
**What does "the times that went over him" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "the times that went over him" (הָעִתִּים אֲשֶׁר עָבְרוּ עָלָיו) refers to the entire span of David's life and reign, encompassing all the significant historical periods, events, and experiences he lived through. This includes his anointing as a youth, his flight from Saul, his ascension to the throne, his military conquests, the establishment of Jerusalem, the bringing of the Ark, his personal failings (like the Bathsheba incident), and his meticulous preparations for the Temple. It signifies that the Chronicler is providing a holistic summary, acknowledging that every moment, both triumphant and challenging, was part of God's providential oversight for David, for Israel, and for the surrounding nations. It emphasizes that David's life was not a series of random occurrences but an unfolding narrative under divine guidance (cf. [Ecclesiastes 3:1](/ecclesiastes/3-1 "Ecclesiastes 3:1 - A Time for Everything")).

**Why does the Chronicler emphasize David's influence over "all the kingdoms of the countries"?**

Answer: The Chronicler's emphasis on David's influence over "all the kingdoms of the countries" serves several key purposes for his post-exilic audience. Firstly, it highlights the **divine blessing and power** that rested upon David, demonstrating that God had indeed made Israel a formidable force in the ancient Near East under his leadership. This would have been a source of encouragement and hope for a people who had lost their sovereignty. Secondly, it underscores the **fulfillment of covenant promises** regarding Israel's dominion and blessing to the nations (cf. [Genesis 12:2-3](/genesis/12-2 "Genesis 12:2-3 - Abrahamic Covenant")). David's regional hegemony was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness. Thirdly, it sets the stage for the even greater peace and prosperity of Solomon's reign, which directly benefited from David's military and diplomatic successes (cf. [1 Kings 4:21](/1_kings/4-21 "1 Kings 4:21 - Solomon's Dominion")). By emphasizing David's broad impact, the Chronicler reinforces the idea of a glorious past and a hopeful future rooted in God's continuing covenant with the Davidic line.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 29:30, in its grand summation of David's comprehensive reign, his might, and his influence over "all the kingdoms of the countries," serves as a profound foreshadowing of the ultimate, eternal, and universal reign of Jesus Christ. David, the "man after God's own heart," established an earthly kingdom whose boundaries and power were significant, yet ultimately limited by time and geography. Jesus, the true Son of David, inherits a kingdom that is "an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away" ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Everlasting Dominion of the Son of Man")). His "reign" is not merely political but spiritual, cosmic, and redemptive, extending over all creation, "far above all rule and authority and power and dominion" ([Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Supremacy Over All Things")). The "might" of Christ is not just military strength but divine power over sin, death, and the grave, demonstrated in His resurrection and ascension ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")). Furthermore, the "times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all the kingdoms of the countries" find their ultimate meaning in Christ, who is Lord of all history—from creation to consummation. His influence truly extends over "all the kingdoms of the countries," for at the sound of the seventh trumpet, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever" ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Thus, David's earthly dominion, though glorious, points to the infinitely greater and eternal reign of the Messiah, in whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to 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

Daniel 4:23

And whereas the king saw a watcher and an holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and [let] his portion [be] with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him;

Daniel 4:25

That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.

Daniel 2:21

And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:

2 Kings 14:28

Now the rest of the acts of Jeroboam, and all that he did, and his might, how he warred, and how he recovered Damascus, and Hamath, [which belonged] to Judah, for Israel, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

2 Kings 10:34

Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, and all that he did, and all his might, [are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?