1 Chronicles 21:13

And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let me fall now into the hand of the LORD; for very great [are] his mercies: but let me not fall into the hand of man.

And David {H1732} said {H559} unto Gad {H1410}, I am in a great {H3966} strait {H6887}: let me fall {H5307} now into the hand {H3027} of the LORD {H3068}; for very {H3966} great {H7227} are his mercies {H7356}: but let me not fall {H5307} into the hand {H3027} of man {H120}.

David said to Gad, "This is very hard for me. Let me fall into the hand of ADONAI, because his mercies are very great, rather than have me fall into the hand of man."

David answered Gad, β€œI am deeply distressed. Please, let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are very great; but do not let me fall into the hands of men.”

And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let me fall, I pray, into the hand of Jehovah; for very great are his mercies: and let me not fall into the hand of man.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 21:13 captures a pivotal moment in King David's life, revealing his profound understanding of God's character amidst severe consequences for his sin.

Context of 1 Chronicles 21:13

This verse immediately follows David's sinful decision to number Israel, an act driven by pride and a lack of trust in God (1 Chronicles 21:1). The prophet Gad, acting as God's messenger, presents David with three choices for divine judgment: three years of famine, three months of being swept away by enemies, or three days of pestilence. David is in a "great strait," a term indicating extreme distress and a desperate predicament. His response here demonstrates his immediate repentance and his unique perspective on God's nature, preferring to face God's direct hand rather than human adversaries.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Mercy in Judgment: David's choice to "fall into the hand of the LORD" rather than the hand of man highlights his conviction that God's judgment, though severe, is always tempered with immense mercy. He understood that even in wrath, God remembers compassion.
  • God's Superior Character: The verse implicitly contrasts God's perfect justice and boundless compassion with the cruelty, unpredictability, and often unforgiving nature of human judgment or vengeance. David knows that God's hand, even when punishing, is ultimately more benevolent than any human hand.
  • Repentance and Trust: David's decision is an act of profound humility and trust. He acknowledges his sin and places himself entirely at the mercy of God, believing in the "very great" nature of divine mercies. This willingness to submit to God's will, even for punishment, is a hallmark of true repentance.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "great strait" translates the Hebrew word tsar (Χ¦Χ¨), meaning narrowness, distress, or anguish, perfectly describing David's impossible situation. More significantly, David's confidence rests on God's "mercies." The Hebrew word here is rachamim (Χ¨Χ—ΧžΧ™Χ), which conveys a deep, compassionate, and tender affection, often likened to a mother's love for her child. It emphasizes God's inherent kindness and willingness to show pity, even when justice demands punishment. This insight underscores why David preferred God's hand over man's.

Strategic Cross-References

The parallel account of this event can be found in 2 Samuel 24:14, confirming David's choice. David's confidence in God's mercy is echoed throughout the Psalms, such as in Psalm 103:8, which declares, "The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy." This passage speaks to the enduring character of God, who desires not the death of the wicked but that they turn from their way and live (Ezekiel 33:11).

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Chronicles 21:13 offers powerful lessons. When we face the consequences of our sins or find ourselves in difficult circumstances, this verse encourages us to turn directly to God. It reminds us that His discipline is always corrective, not destructive, and is ultimately motivated by His love and compassion (Hebrews 12:6). We can trust that even in our "great strait," God's mercies are indeed "very great," far surpassing any human capacity for understanding or forgiveness. It calls us to humble ourselves, confess our failings, and seek His hand for guidance and grace, knowing His ultimate desire is for our good and restoration.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 130:7 (5 votes)

    Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD [there is] mercy, and with him [is] plenteous redemption.

  • Hebrews 10:31 (4 votes)

    [It is] a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

  • Philippians 1:23 (4 votes)

    For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

  • Isaiah 55:7 (4 votes)

    Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

  • John 12:27 (3 votes)

    ΒΆ Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.

  • Psalms 69:16 (2 votes)

    Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness [is] good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies.

  • Psalms 130:4 (2 votes)

    But [there is] forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.