1 Chronicles 16:35 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 16:35 mean?

1 Chronicles 16:35 is a call for the people to ask God to save them, gather them together, and rescue them from other nations, so that they can thank God’s holy name and celebrate His praise. The verse expresses a desire for deliverance that leads to public gratitude and worship.

This verse is part of a song of thanks led by King David after the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. David is speaking to the people of Israel, encouraging them to pray for God’s help and to remember that their rescue is meant to result in honoring God. The verse ties the people’s safety and unity directly to their ability to give thanks and glory to God.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 16:35

• “Save” (יָשַׁע, yashaʿ): This word means to rescue or deliver. Here, it highlights a plea for God’s active intervention, not just spiritual salvation but real help in trouble.
• “Together” (קָבַץ, qavats): This word means to gather or assemble. It points to the hope that God will bring His people back from being scattered among other nations, restoring their unity.
• “Heathen” (גּוֹי, goy): This word means nations or peoples, often used for non-Israelite groups. The request is for deliverance from foreign powers, not just generic “pagans.”
• “Thanks” (יָדָה, yadah): This word means to give thanks or praise, often with the sense of acknowledging God openly. The verse connects rescue with a public response of gratitude.

Why 1 Chronicles 16:35 matters

• This verse clarifies that the people’s deliverance is not just for their own benefit but so they can honor God together, showing the link between rescue and worship.
• The verse connects Israel’s national experience—being scattered and oppressed—with their spiritual calling to thank and praise God, tying history and faith together.
• In the wider passage, this prayer is part of a larger celebration and dedication, showing that remembering God’s help is central to Israel’s identity and worship.