Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 14:3 mean?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 14:3

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 14:3 matters

Accepted Answer

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.

1 Chronicles 14:3 (KJV)