◄ 1 Chronicles 14 ►
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David’s Family Grows (2 Samuel 5:12–16) 1Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters, to build a palace for him. 2And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and had highly exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel. 3And David took more wives in Jerusalem and became the father of more sons and daughters. 4These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua,a Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 5Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, 6Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, 7Elishama, Beeliada,b and Eliphelet. Two Victories over the Philistines (2 Samuel 5:17–25) 8When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went out to face them. 9Now the Philistines had come and raided the Valley of Rephaim. 10So David inquired of God, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will deliver them into your hand.” 11So David and his men went up to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, God has burst out against my enemies by my hand.” So they called that place Baal-perazim.c 12There the Philistines abandoned their gods, and David ordered that they be burned in the fire. 13Once again the Philistines raided the valley. 14So David again inquired of God, who answered him, “Do not march up after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the balsam trees.d 15As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle, because this will mean that God has gone out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines.” 16So David did as God had commanded him, and they struck down the army of the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer. 17And David’s fame went out into every land, and the LORD caused all nations to fear him. Footnotes: 4 a Shammua is a variant of Shimea; see 1 Chronicles 3:5. 7 b Beeliada is a variant of Eliada; see 2 Samuel 5:16. 11 c Baal-perazim means The Lord Bursts Out. 14 d Or aspen trees or poplar trees; also in verse 15 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Chronicles 14 Summary David's Family Grows Verses 1–2 – Royal Support and Divine Elevation King Hiram of Tyre sends cedar, stonemasons, and carpenters to build David a palace, and David recognizes that the LORD has established him for the sake of Israel. Verses 3–7 – Growing Household in Jerusalem David takes additional wives, and sons are born to him in Jerusalem, including notable heirs such as Solomon’s full brother Nathan. Verses 8–12 – Philistines Defeated at Baal-perazim When the Philistines march up to challenge the newly anointed king, David asks God for guidance, receives permission to attack, strikes them down, and burns their abandoned idols. Verses 13–16 – A Second Clash and a Sound in the Mulberry Trees The Philistines return, but this time the LORD directs David to circle behind them and wait for the sound of marching in the treetops—an audible sign that God has gone ahead. David obeys and wins another sweeping victory. Verse 17 – David’s Renown David’s fame spreads everywhere, and the surrounding nations are awed by the LORD’s protection over him. Chapter 14 of 1 Chronicles in the Berean Standard Bible follows the journey of King David as he establishes his reign in Jerusalem. With the blessing and help of King Hiram of Tyre, David constructs his palace and solidifies his power. This chapter portrays David's trust in divine guidance, his victories over the Philistines, and the establishment of his family in Jerusalem. Historical Setting and Flow of Events • 1 Chronicles 14 sits between David’s first, failed attempt to move the ark (ch. 13) and his successful, reverent transport (ch. 15). The compiler shows how God’s favor upon David’s kingship grows even while David is still learning holy reverence. • Two quick Philistine invasions occur soon after David captures Jerusalem (cf. 2 Samuel 5:17–25). The valleys named here lie just southwest of the capital, placing the threat on David’s doorstep. • The strengthening of David’s house through a palace and offspring underscores the permanency of the Davidic line (anticipated in 1 Chronicles 17, the covenant chapter). Archaeological and Geographical Notes • Hiram of Tyre: Phoenician trade records show Tyre’s cedar and craftsmen were prized across the eastern Mediterranean. Archaeological layers in ancient Jerusalem reveal Phoenician-style ashlar masonry, consistent with the kind of royal construction described. • Cedar from Lebanon: Light yet strong, cedar resisted rot and insects—ideal for a palace in Jerusalem’s climate. • Valley of Rephaim: A broad plain south-west of Jerusalem, later called “Elah” in some periods. Its open terrain allowed chariots and large infantry movements, matching the Philistine tactics implied here. • Baal-perazim: Literally “Master of Breakthroughs.” Though the exact site is debated, several ridges west of Jerusalem show water-scoured gullies that could inspire David’s comparison to a flood bursting through banks. David’s Dependence on Divine Guidance (1) Inquiry before action—twice. “David inquired of God” (v. 10); “again David inquired” (v. 14). He treats every new battle as unique, refusing to rely on yesterday’s instruction. (2) Waiting for the LORD’s sign. Verse 15: “As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out for battle, for God will have gone out before you…”. The victory is credited to God going first, not to David’s army. (3) Destruction of idols. David burns the Philistines’ images (v. 12), mirroring Deuteronomy 7:5’s command to destroy foreign gods and echoing 1 Samuel 5 where the ark humbled Dagon. Connections to Other Scriptures • 2 Samuel 5: The parallel narrative confirms the same battle sequence and divine strategy. Chronicles omits some civil-war material (e.g., Ish-bosheth) to highlight covenant promises. • Psalm 18: “He parted the heavens and came down… He delivered me from my strong enemy.” Many view this psalm as David’s personal reflection on God’s “breakthrough” victories such as Baal-perazim. • 1 Kings 5: Solomon later benefits from his father’s alliance with Hiram, importing cedar for the temple, showing God can use Gentile allies to fulfill His plans. • James 1:5,17: Seeking wisdom from God and recognizing Him as the giver of every good gift reflects David’s pattern of inquiry and gratitude. Names and Meanings • Hiram (Huram): “My brother is exalted,” hinting at a friendly ruler lifted up in cooperation. • Baal-perazim: “Lord of Breakthroughs,” memorializing God’s flooding force against enemies. • David (Dawid): “Beloved,” fitting his favored status with God and people. Family List in Verses 3–7 Chronicles supplies the fullest record of David’s Jerusalem-born sons, anticipating later genealogies of Jesus (Luke 3:31 traces through Nathan; Matthew 1:6 through Solomon). The mention of Bath-shua (Bathsheba) quietly precedes her later story. Practical Observations • Rely on God daily. Yesterday’s victory does not remove the need to ask again. • Wait for God’s timing. Moving too soon—before the treetop signal—would have forfeited the divine advantage. • Remove stumbling blocks. David’s burning of idols teaches prompt action against anything that might sap devotion. • Recognize God’s larger plan. Hiram’s cedars not only bless David’s house but set the stage for the temple, showing how present obedience builds the future. The Spread of David’s Fame (v. 17) God magnifies David so that “the nations were in awe of him”. The Chronicler uses this to reassure post-exilic readers that God can still raise His people’s reputation when they honor Him and seek His guidance. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Psalm 37:23 The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. Teaching Points David's Favor with God and Man Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build a palace for him (1 Chronicles 14:1). David's favor with Hiram signifies God's blessing and the importance of godly alliances. Recognition of God's Establishment And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel (1 Chronicles 14:2). David acknowledges that his kingship is for the benefit of God's people, not personal gain. David's Family Growth Verses 3-7 detail David's growing family in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of family and legacy in God's plan. Seeking God's Guidance in Battle So David inquired of God, 'Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?' The LORD replied, 'Go, for I will deliver them into your hand' (1 Chronicles 14:10). David's inquiry shows his dependence on God for strategic decisions. Obedience and Victory So David did as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army from Gibeon to Gezer (1 Chronicles 14:16). Obedience to God's instructions leads to victory. God's Fame and Fear Among Nations And the fame of David went out into all the lands, and the LORD caused all nations to fear him (1 Chronicles 14:17). God's work through David brings reverence and recognition among the nations. Practical Applications Seek God’s Guidance Like David, we should seek God's direction in our decisions, trusting His wisdom over our own understanding. Acknowledge God's Role in Success Recognize that our achievements are established by God for His purposes, not merely for personal advancement. Value Godly Relationships Cultivate relationships that honor God and contribute to His work, as seen in David's alliance with Hiram. Obey God's Commands Follow God's instructions faithfully, knowing that obedience leads to His blessings and victories. People 1. David David is the central figure in this chapter. He is the king of Israel, known for his leadership and military prowess. The chapter describes his establishment in Jerusalem and his victories over the Philistines. The Hebrew root for David is "דָּוִד" (Dawid), meaning "beloved." 2. Hiram Hiram is the king of Tyre who sends envoys to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build a palace for him. This indicates a diplomatic relationship between Tyre and Israel. The Hebrew name "חִירָם" (Chiram) can mean "my brother is exalted." 3. Philistines The Philistines are mentioned as the adversaries of Israel. They come up against David in the Valley of Rephaim, but David defeats them with God's guidance. The term "Philistines" comes from the Hebrew "פְּלִשְׁתִּים" (P'lishtim), meaning "immigrants" or "invaders." 4. Baal-perazim While not a person, Baal-perazim is the name given by David to the place where he defeated the Philistines, meaning "Lord of Breakthroughs." It reflects David's acknowledgment of God's intervention in his victory. 5. God God is a central figure in the narrative, providing guidance and victory to David. The Hebrew name for God used in this context is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a plural form often used to denote the majesty and power of the one true God. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the city where David established his reign as king over all Israel. It is often referred to as the City of David. In Hebrew, it is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), a significant city in biblical history and theology. 2. Tyre Tyre is a city whose king, Hiram, sent envoys to David with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build a palace for him. Tyre, in Hebrew "צֹר" (Tzor), was a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. 3. Baal-perazim This is the place where David defeated the Philistines. The name means "Lord of Breakthroughs" in Hebrew, "בַּעַל פְּרָצִים" (Baal Peratzim), signifying God's intervention in David's victory. 4. Valley of Rephaim The Valley of Rephaim is where the Philistines spread out in battle against David. In Hebrew, it is "עֵמֶק רְפָאִים" (Emek Rephaim), a valley southwest of Jerusalem known for its strategic military importance. Events 1. Hiram's Alliance with David Hiram, king of Tyre, sends envoys to David along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build a palace for him. This event signifies the recognition of David's kingship by neighboring nations. The Hebrew word for "envoys" (מַלְאָכִים, mal'akhim) can also mean "messengers," indicating the diplomatic nature of this interaction. 2. David's Realization of His Kingship David perceives that the LORD has established him as king over Israel and that his kingdom is highly exalted for the sake of His people Israel. The Hebrew root for "established" (כּוּן, kun) implies a firm and secure foundation, emphasizing the divine approval and support for David's reign. 3. David's Family in Jerusalem David takes more wives in Jerusalem and fathers more sons and daughters. The passage lists the names of his children born there, highlighting the expansion of his family and the continuation of his lineage. The Hebrew term for "wives" (נָשִׁים, nashim) reflects the cultural practices of polygamy during that period. 4. Philistine Invasion and David's Inquiry of God The Philistines come up to search for David, and he inquires of God whether he should go up against them. The LORD responds affirmatively, promising victory. The Hebrew verb for "inquire" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) indicates seeking divine guidance, a recurring theme in David's leadership. 5. David's Victory at Baal-perazim David defeats the Philistines at Baal-perazim, declaring, "God has broken out against my enemies by my hand like a bursting flood." The name "Baal-perazim" means "Lord of Breakthroughs," reflecting the decisive nature of the victory. The Hebrew root for "broken out" (פָּרַץ, paratz) conveys a forceful and sudden action. 6. Philistines Abandon Their Idols The Philistines leave their idols behind, and David orders them to be burned. This act demonstrates the rejection of foreign gods and the reaffirmation of Israel's commitment to the LORD. The Hebrew word for "idols" (עֲצַבִּים, atzabim) often denotes objects of worship that are powerless compared to the God of Israel. 7. Second Philistine Invasion and Divine Strategy The Philistines raid the valley again, and David once more seeks God's counsel. This time, God instructs him to circle around and attack them in front of the balsam trees. The Hebrew term for "balsam trees" (בְּכָאִים, bekha'im) is associated with weeping, possibly due to the sound the trees make, which plays a role in the divine strategy. 8. Sound of Marching in the Trees God tells David to wait for the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees as a sign to attack, indicating that the LORD has gone out before him to strike the Philistine army. The imagery of divine movement is captured in the Hebrew phrase "קוֹל צְעָדָה" (qol tze'adah), meaning "sound of marching." 9. David's Fame and Fear of the LORD David's fame spreads throughout the lands, and the LORD brings the fear of him upon all nations. The Hebrew word for "fame" (שֵׁם, shem) also means "name," signifying reputation and renown. The fear of the LORD (יִרְאַת יְהוָה, yirat Yahweh) reflects the awe and respect inspired by God's actions through David. Lessons from 1 Chronicles 14 1. Seek Divine Guidance in All Decisions In 1 Chronicles 14, we see David consistently seeking God's guidance before making major decisions. "So David inquired of God, 'Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?' The LORD replied, 'Go, for I will deliver them into your hand'" (1 Chronicles 14:10). This teaches us the importance of turning to God in prayer and seeking His wisdom in our daily lives. When we align our plans with His will, we can move forward with confidence and assurance. 2. Recognize God's Hand in Your Success David's victories over the Philistines were not just a result of his military prowess but a testament to God's favor. "So David did as God commanded him, and they struck down the army of the Philistines from Gibeon to Gezer" (1 Chronicles 14:16). Acknowledging God's role in our achievements keeps us humble and reminds us to give Him the glory for our successes. 3. Embrace the Power of Obedience David's obedience to God's instructions led to his triumph. "David did as God commanded him" (1 Chronicles 14:16). This highlights the power of obedience in our spiritual journey. When we follow God's commands, we position ourselves to receive His blessings and experience His faithfulness in our lives. 4. Understand the Importance of Reputation David's reputation grew as a result of his victories, and "the fame of David went out into all lands, and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations" (1 Chronicles 14:17). Our actions and character can influence how others perceive us and, more importantly, how they perceive God through us. Strive to live in a way that reflects His love and truth. 5. Value the Role of Community David's success was not achieved in isolation. He had a strong community of warriors and advisors. This reminds us of the importance of surrounding ourselves with a supportive community of believers who can encourage, challenge, and uplift us in our walk with God. 6. Be Prepared for Spiritual Warfare The Philistines repeatedly attacked David, but he was always ready to defend his people. "Once again the Philistines raided the valley" (1 Chronicles 14:13). We, too, must be prepared for spiritual battles, equipped with the armor of God, and ready to stand firm in our faith. 7. Celebrate God's Faithfulness David's victories were celebrated as a testament to God's faithfulness. "And David said, 'God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like a breakthrough of water'" (1 Chronicles 14:11). Celebrating God's faithfulness in our lives strengthens our faith and encourages others to trust in His promises. 8. Be a Leader Who Seeks God's Heart David was a leader who sought after God's own heart, and this was evident in his actions and decisions. As leaders in our families, workplaces, or communities, we should strive to reflect God's heart in all we do, leading with integrity, compassion, and humility. 9. Trust in God's Timing David waited for God's signal before attacking the Philistines, demonstrating his trust in God's perfect timing. "When you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move out to battle" (1 Chronicles 14:15). Trusting in God's timing requires patience and faith, knowing that His plans are always for our good. 10. Let Your Life Be a Testimony David's life and victories were a testimony to God's power and faithfulness. Our lives, too, can be a powerful testimony to those around us. By living in a way that honors God, we can inspire others to seek Him and experience His love and grace. Topics 1. David's Alliance with Hiram In 1 Chronicles 14:1-2, King Hiram of Tyre sends envoys to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build a palace for him. This alliance signifies the recognition of David's kingship by neighboring nations. The Hebrew word for "cedar" (אֶרֶז, 'erez) emphasizes the quality and durability of the materials provided, symbolizing the strength of David's reign. 2. David's Growing Family Verses 3-7 detail David's family expansion in Jerusalem, listing the names of his sons born there. This section highlights the establishment of David's dynasty. The Hebrew term for "sons" (בָּנִים, banim) underscores the continuation of David's lineage and God's promise to establish his house. 3. David Defeats the Philistines In verses 8-12, the Philistines seek to challenge David's rule, but David inquires of God and receives divine guidance for victory. The Hebrew root דָּרַשׁ (darash), meaning "to inquire," reflects David's dependence on God's direction. The defeat of the Philistines demonstrates God's favor and support for David. 4. The Breakthrough at Baal-perazim Verses 11-12 describe the battle at Baal-perazim, where David attributes the victory to God, saying, "God has broken out against my enemies by my hand, like a breakthrough of water." The name "Baal-perazim" (בַּעַל פְּרָצִים) means "Lord of Breakthroughs," signifying God's intervention and power in battle. 5. Philistines Defeated Again In verses 13-17, the Philistines regroup and attack once more, but David again seeks God's counsel. God instructs him to circle around and attack from the rear, leading to another victory. The repeated inquiry and obedience to God's strategy highlight the importance of divine guidance in achieving success. The chapter concludes with David's fame spreading, and the Lord bringing fear upon all nations, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to David. Themes 1. Divine Favor and Kingship In 1 Chronicles 14, we see the theme of divine favor upon David as king. The chapter begins with Hiram, king of Tyre, sending materials and craftsmen to build David a palace, signifying international recognition and God's blessing on David's reign. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), meaning loving-kindness or favor, which is often associated with God's covenantal faithfulness. 2. God's Guidance in Battle The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in warfare. David inquires of God before engaging the Philistines, and God provides specific strategies for victory. This theme underscores the Hebrew idea of "darash" (דָּרַשׁ), meaning to seek or inquire, emphasizing the necessity of divine direction in the life of a believer. 3. Victory through Obedience David's victories over the Philistines are attributed to his obedience to God's instructions. The narrative demonstrates that success comes from following God's commands, a principle rooted in the Hebrew word "shama" (שָׁמַע), meaning to hear or obey. This theme reinforces the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will. 4. God's Presence and Power The chapter illustrates God's presence and power in David's life, particularly through the defeat of the Philistines. The breaking through of God "like a bursting flood" (1 Chronicles 14:11) symbolizes His overwhelming power. The Hebrew term "perets" (פֶּרֶץ), meaning breach or breakthrough, is used to describe this divine intervention, highlighting God's ability to overcome obstacles. 5. Establishment of David's Kingdom The narrative emphasizes the establishment and expansion of David's kingdom, which is seen as a fulfillment of God's promises. This theme is connected to the Hebrew word "kun" (כּוּן), meaning to establish or make firm, reflecting the stability and growth of David's rule as ordained by God. 6. Recognition of God's Sovereignty The chapter concludes with the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over Israel and the nations. David's success and the fear of him among the nations are attributed to God's hand upon him. This theme is linked to the Hebrew concept of "malkuth" (מַלְכוּת), meaning kingdom or sovereignty, underscoring God's ultimate authority over earthly rulers. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment to seek God's guidance in all areas of life. Ask for a heart that acknowledges God's role in our successes and remains humble. Pray for the courage to obey God's commands, even when they challenge our understanding. Seek God's favor in building relationships that honor Him and further His kingdom. Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 Chronicles 14:1 – Is there historical evidence for King Hiram of Tyre supplying David with materials and builders for his palace? 2. 1 Chronicles 14:2 – Why would God’s favor be linked to David’s increasing power and multiple wives, despite biblical warnings against polygamy elsewhere? 3. 1 Chronicles 14:5–7 – Does the large number of children born to David in Jerusalem suggest an exaggerated account or a cultural practice at odds with later moral teachings? 4. 1 Chronicles 14:15 – Are there natural or archaeological explanations for the sound “in the tops of the balsam trees” that signaled God’s assistance in battle? 5. 1 Chronicles 14:8–17 – How do we reconcile any discrepancies between this account of David’s battles with the Philistines and the parallel text in 2 Samuel 5? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How did the support of Hiram impact David's reign? 2. How did David's actions, after being anointed King, portray his faith in God? 3. In what ways did David's consultation with God before each battle showcase his trust and dependence on God? 4. Discuss the role of divine guidance in David's victories. How does this relate to your own personal experiences? 5. What was unique about the strategies God provided for each battle against the Philistines, and what does it suggest about God's approach to problem-solving? 6. How did David's victories over the Philistines solidify his position as a leader? 7. Why do you think David's fame caused fear among all nations, as described in verse 17? 8. What does the narrative of David's growing family signify in the context of his reign and God's blessings? 9. How do David's actions reflect the theme of 'Establishment of Power'? 10. What do the two different battle strategies against the Philistines tell you about God's guidance? 11. How does the text portray the theme of 'Victory over Enemies'? Can this be applied in our personal battles today? 12. How might David's approach to facing the Philistines inform our approach to challenges in our lives? 13. What role does seeking divine guidance play in your decision-making process? 14. What lessons can we learn from David's approach to expanding his family and kingdom? 15. How does David's strategy change in the second battle against the Philistines reflect the need for adaptability in life's challenges? 16. What can we learn from David's recognition of God's hand in his victory at Baal Perazim? 17. How does David's reliance on God's command in his battles challenge or encourage you in your personal faith walk? 18. How might our personal, professional, or spiritual lives change if we sought divine guidance as David did? 19. How can the themes of divine guidance and trust in God's promises be applied to the challenges you're facing today? 20. Reflect on a situation where you felt divine guidance. How did it shape the outcome? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions