1 Chronicles 16:3 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 16:3 mean?

1 Chronicles 16:3 describes how David gave every man and woman in Israel a loaf of bread, a good piece of meat, and a flagon of wine. This verse shows David sharing food and drink with all the people as part of a joyful celebration.

David is the one acting here, and this happens after the Ark of the Covenant is brought into Jerusalem. The verse highlights a moment of national unity and generosity, where David makes sure every person, regardless of gender, receives the same gifts. This sharing of food marks the occasion as a communal feast, emphasizing both celebration and inclusion.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 16:3

• "dealt" (חָלַק, ḥālaq): This word means to divide or distribute. Here, it shows David personally ensuring everyone receives a share, not just a select group.
• "one" (אִישׁ, ʾish): Used for both "man" and "one," this word emphasizes that each individual, not just heads of households, received a portion.
• "loaf" (כִּכָּר, kikkar): This term refers to a round loaf or cake, a common way bread was shaped and shared in ancient Israel.
• "flesh" (בָּשָׂר, basar): This word means meat or flesh, highlighting that the feast included more than just bread—there was also a valuable portion of meat.
• "flagon" (אֲשִׁישָׁה, ʾashishah): Often understood as a cake of pressed raisins or sometimes a jug of wine. The word can mean either, but here it likely points to a festive food or drink item, adding to the sense of abundance.

Why 1 Chronicles 16:3 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that only men or leaders received gifts; it specifically says both men and women, showing inclusiveness.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by marking the Ark’s arrival with a public celebration, reinforcing the communal joy and unity of Israel.
• The detailed mention of bread, meat, and wine (or raisin cakes) shows the generosity and completeness of the celebration, not just a token gesture but a full, festive meal for everyone.