1 Chronicles 14:3 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 14:3 mean?

1 Chronicles 14:3 states that David, after settling in Jerusalem, took more wives and had additional sons and daughters. The verse simply records a fact about David’s family life during his reign in Jerusalem.

This verse is part of a historical account written to document David’s rule as king over Israel. The writer notes David’s growing family, which was common for kings in the ancient Near East as a sign of status and to form alliances. The verse does not make a judgment about David’s actions but includes this detail as part of his story.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 14:3

• The word for “took” is לָקַח (laqach), which often means to acquire or take for oneself. Here, it refers to David marrying additional wives, highlighting an intentional action.
• “Wives” is נָשִׁים (nashim), the standard Hebrew word for women or wives. The plural form emphasizes that David had multiple wives, which was culturally accepted for kings at the time.
• “Begat” is יָלַד (yalad), meaning to father or bring forth children. This word underscores David’s role in expanding his family line.

Why 1 Chronicles 14:3 matters

• This verse helps clarify that David’s family grew significantly after he established his rule in Jerusalem, which sets the stage for later stories involving his children.
• The mention of multiple wives and many children reflects the customs of ancient royal households and hints at the political and personal complexities that would later shape David’s reign.
• By noting these details, the chronicler connects David’s personal life to the broader narrative of Israel’s history and the lineage of future kings.