1 Chronicles 14:17

And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.

And the fame {H8034} of David {H1732} went out {H3318} into all lands {H776}; and the LORD {H3068} brought {H5414} the fear {H6343} of him upon all nations {H1471}.

So David's reputation spread to all countries, and ADONAI brought the fear of him on all nations.

And David’s fame went out into every land, and the LORD caused all nations to fear him.

And the fame of David went out into all lands; and Jehovah brought the fear of him upon all nations.

Commentary

Context

1 Chronicles 14:17 concludes a significant section detailing King David's early reign in Jerusalem after being anointed king over all Israel. Specifically, it follows David's decisive victories over the Philistines at Baal-perazim and Gibeon (1 Chronicles 14:8-16). These victories were not achieved by David's might alone, but came as a direct result of his diligent inquiry of the Lord before battle (1 Chronicles 14:10, 1 Chronicles 14:14). The Chronicler emphasizes God's active involvement in establishing David's kingdom and ensuring his success, setting the stage for Israel's prominence under David's leadership. This verse highlights the immediate and widespread impact of God's blessing on David.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Empowerment: The verse explicitly states that "the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations." This underscores that David's fame and the respect (or dread) he commanded were not merely due to his military prowess or political skill, but were divinely ordained. God was actively working to elevate David and secure his kingdom.
  • Widespread Influence of God's Chosen Leader: David's "fame" (Hebrew: shem, meaning reputation or renown) extended "into all lands." This speaks to the far-reaching impact of a leader blessed by God, demonstrating God's power through His chosen vessel.
  • Fear as Respect and Awe: The "fear" (Hebrew: pachad) brought upon nations signifies not just terror, but also a profound respect and awe for David and, by extension, for the God who fought for Israel. It served as a deterrent to potential enemies and solidified Israel's position among surrounding nations.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "fame" is shem (שֵׁם), which literally means "name" but often denotes reputation, character, or renown. Thus, David's "name" or reputation became great. The word for "fear" is pachad (פַּחַד), which carries a strong connotation of dread or terror. While it could imply a healthy respect, in this context, it suggests that neighboring nations were apprehensive of David's power, knowing that the God of Israel was with him.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless insights for believers today. It reminds us that:

  1. God is the Source of True Influence: Our standing, influence, and success in life, especially in service to God, ultimately come from His hand, not solely our own efforts. When we walk in obedience and seek His counsel, He can amplify our impact far beyond what we could achieve on our own.
  2. Obedience Leads to Blessing: David's consistent seeking of God's will before engaging in battle was met with divine blessing and widespread recognition. This encourages us to prioritize seeking God's guidance in our decisions.
  3. God Defends His People: Just as the Lord brought fear upon David's enemies, He continues to be a protector and defender of His people. We can trust in His power to establish and uphold us.
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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 2:25 (7 votes)

    This day will I begin to put the dread of thee and the fear of thee upon the nations [that are] under the whole heaven, who shall hear report of thee, and shall tremble, and be in anguish because of thee.

  • Joshua 6:27 (4 votes)

    So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was [noised] throughout all the country.

  • Exodus 15:14 (4 votes)

    The people shall hear, [and] be afraid: sorrow shall take hold on the inhabitants of Palestina.

  • Exodus 15:16 (4 votes)

    Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be [as] still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.

  • 2 Chronicles 26:8 (3 votes)

    And the Ammonites gave gifts to Uzziah: and his name spread abroad [even] to the entering in of Egypt; for he strengthened [himself] exceedingly.

  • Psalms 18:44 (3 votes)

    As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me.

  • Joshua 2:9 (2 votes)

    And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.