Then all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.

1 CHRONICLES 11:1KJV
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1 Chronicles 11:1 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 11:1 mean?

1 Chronicles 11:1 describes how all the tribes of Israel came together to meet David at Hebron, telling him, “Behold, we are your bone and your flesh.” This means the people were declaring their close relationship to David, recognizing him as one of their own and expressing unity with him.

The verse takes place after the death of King Saul, when the people of Israel are seeking a new leader. The leaders and representatives of Israel approach David in the city of Hebron, openly acknowledging their shared ancestry and connection. By saying “we are your bone and your flesh,” they are emphasizing that David is not an outsider, but truly belongs to them as family.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 11:1

  • “gathered” (קָבַץ, qavats): This word means to assemble or come together, often for an important purpose. Here, it highlights that the entire nation is united in their approach to David, not just a small group.
  • “bone” (עֶצֶם, etsem) and “flesh” (בָּשָׂר, basar): These words together form a Hebrew expression meaning close kinship or family ties. The people are stressing that David is of the same people and heritage as themselves, not a distant or foreign ruler.
  • “Hebron” (חֶבְרוֹן, Chevron): Hebron is a significant city in Judah, often associated with important events in Israel’s history. Meeting David there underlines the legitimacy and tradition behind their action.

Why 1 Chronicles 11:1 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that David was an outsider or imposed on Israel; instead, it shows the people themselves recognizing him as their own kin and rightful leader.
  • The emphasis on unity and shared identity sets the stage for David’s reign, showing that his kingship begins with the support and agreement of all Israel.
  • The verse connects to the larger story of Israel’s transition from Saul to David, highlighting the importance of community consent and relationship in leadership.

Where else these words appear

“Hebron” Hebrew H2275 · used in 66 verses

  • Genesis 13:18 Then Abram removed his tent, and came and dwelt in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the LORD.
  • Joshua 21:11 And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak, which city is Hebron, in the hill country of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.
  • 2 Samuel 5:5 In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah.

“bone” Hebrew H6106 · used in 108 verses

  • Genesis 2:23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
  • 1 Kings 13:31 And it came to pass, after he had buried him, that he spake to his sons, saying, When I am dead, then bury me in the sepulchre wherein the man of God is buried; lay my bones beside his bones:
  • Proverbs 3:8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

“gathered” Hebrew H6908 · used in 121 verses

  • Genesis 41:35 And let them gather all the food of those good years that come, and lay up corn under the hand of Pharaoh, and let them keep food in the cities.
  • 2 Chronicles 32:6 And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,
  • Jeremiah 31:8 Behold, I will bring them from the north country, and gather them from the coasts of the earth, and with them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: a great company shall return thither.