Understanding 1 Chronicles 14:3
Bible Verse: 1 Chronicles 14:3
“And David took more wives at Jerusalem: and David begat more sons and daughters.”
Overview of the Verse
This verse occurs during a significant phase in King David's reign, highlighting his actions as he establishes Jerusalem as the political and spiritual capital of Israel. The mention of David taking more wives and having children reflects not just a cultural practice of the time, but also serves to underline the prosperity and growth of his kingdom.
Key Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry notes that David's acquisition of wives was part of the ancient Near Eastern royal practice, where marriage alliances were crucial for political stability. He points out that while this might seem permissible in the culture of that time, it also foreshadows the troubles that would arise in David's family due to polygamy.
Albert Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes elaborates on the societal implications of David taking more wives, indicating that the act was common among kings who sought to strengthen their rule. Additionally, he mentions how this could serve as a comprehensive testament to God's blessing on David, given the time of peace he was experiencing, yet warns of the potential moral decline that could result from such practices.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke reflects on the consequences of David's action, suggesting that accumulating multiple wives and children leads to divisions within the family unit. He reinforces the understanding that God's plan often highlights the ideal of one man and one woman and warns against the deviation from this in the context of David's story.
Related Bible Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 17:17: “Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away.”
- 2 Samuel 5:13: “And David took him more concubines and wives out of Jerusalem.”
- 1 Kings 11:3: “And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines.”
- Genesis 30:1-3: The story of Leah and Rachel as they respond to the need for children.
- 1 Timothy 3:2: “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife.”
- Malachi 2:14: “The Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth.”
- Romans 7:2: “For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth.”
Thematic Bible Verse Connections
This verse connects to the overarching theme of familial relationships in Scripture and how they can reflect divine order or lead to issues when not aligned with God's ideal. The narrative of David and his marriages is a precursor to the complexities that arise in later chapters of his life, illustrating the broader biblical principle of the impact of personal choices on family dynamics.
Conclusion
1 Chronicles 14:3 offers a glimpse into the life of King David, showcasing the intricate balance between cultural practices and divine expectations. Understanding this verse in conjunction with cross-referenced scriptures enhances our comprehension of the biblical narrative surrounding family, leadership, and moral conduct.
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