1 Chronicles 21:21

David came to Ornan, and when Ornan looked out and saw David, he left the threshing floor and bowed facedown before David.

Study Bible

When David came to Araunah
This phrase marks a significant moment in the narrative, as David approaches Araunah, a Jebusite. The name "David" in Hebrew means "beloved," reflecting his status as a man after God's own heart. Araunah, also known as Ornan, is a figure of interest because he is a Jebusite, a remnant of the original inhabitants of Jerusalem. This encounter underscores the peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between David, the king of Israel, and the Jebusites, highlighting the unifying power of God's plan.

Araunah looked down and saw the king
The act of "looking down" suggests a position of humility and respect. Araunah's recognition of David as "the king" is significant, as it acknowledges David's God-given authority. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were seen as representatives of divine authority on earth. Araunah's recognition of David's kingship reflects the broader acceptance of David's rule, even among non-Israelites, which is a testament to God's favor upon David.

and his servants coming toward him
The presence of "his servants" with David emphasizes the king's status and the respect he commands. In the biblical context, servants often accompanied kings to signify their authority and the execution of their will. This entourage signifies the importance of the meeting and the respect due to both David and Araunah. It also reflects the communal nature of leadership in ancient Israel, where the king's actions were supported by his loyal followers.

so he went out and bowed facedown before the king
Araunah's action of bowing "facedown" is a profound gesture of respect and submission. In the Hebrew culture, bowing was a common way to show honor and deference, especially to someone of higher status. This act of humility by Araunah not only acknowledges David's authority but also sets the stage for the subsequent negotiation for the threshing floor. It is a reminder of the importance of humility and respect in relationships, especially when dealing with those whom God has placed in positions of authority.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, known for his heart after God, but also for his human failings. In this chapter, David is dealing with the consequences of his sin of conducting a census of Israel.

2. Araunah
A Jebusite who owned the threshing floor where David intended to build an altar to the Lord. His interaction with David is significant in the account of repentance and sacrifice.

3. Threshing Floor
A place where grain is separated from chaff, symbolically a place of separation and purification. It becomes the site for David's altar and later the location for Solomon's Temple.

4. Jerusalem
The city where these events take place, central to Israel's history and God's covenant with His people.

5. The Plague
A divine judgment sent upon Israel as a consequence of David's sin, which is halted at the threshing floor of Araunah.

Teaching Points

Repentance and Restoration
David's approach to Araunah's threshing floor is a step towards repentance. True repentance involves acknowledging sin and taking steps to make things right with God.

The Cost of Sacrifice
David insists on paying for the threshing floor, teaching us that genuine worship and repentance often require personal sacrifice.

God's Mercy
Despite David's sin, God provides a way to stop the plague, demonstrating His mercy and willingness to forgive when we turn back to Him.

The Significance of Place
The threshing floor becomes a sacred site, reminding us that God can transform places of judgment into places of worship and blessing.

Leadership and Accountability
As a leader, David's actions had consequences for the entire nation, highlighting the importance of responsible and godly leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does David's interaction with Araunah teach us about the nature of true repentance and worship?

2. How does the concept of sacrifice in this passage connect to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of personal sacrifice in our own worship and relationship with God?

4. How does the transformation of the threshing floor into a place of worship encourage us in our own spiritual journeys?

5. What lessons can we learn from David's leadership, both in his failures and his steps towards restoration, that apply to our roles in our communities and families?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 24
This parallel account provides additional details about David's sin, the resulting plague, and the purchase of Araunah's threshing floor.

Genesis 22
The concept of sacrifice and obedience is echoed in the account of Abraham and Isaac, highlighting themes of faith and God's provision.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrifices to the New Covenant.