Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the LORD charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed.

1 CHRONICLES 22:13KJV
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1 Chronicles 22:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 22:13 mean?

1 Chronicles 22:13 says that Solomon will succeed if he carefully follows the laws and decisions God gave to Moses for Israel, and encourages him to be strong, courageous, and not afraid or discouraged. The verse ties Solomon’s future prosperity to his obedience and his attitude in facing the task ahead.

David is speaking to his son Solomon as he prepares him to build the temple in Jerusalem. David reminds Solomon that following God’s commands—specifically the "statutes and judgments" given through Moses—is essential for success. David also urges Solomon to have strength and courage, echoing words spoken to Joshua in earlier times, because the work ahead is significant and challenging.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 22:13

  • "Prosper" (‏הִצְלִיחַ‎, hitsliakh): This word often means to succeed or to have things go well, especially as a result of God’s help. Here, it emphasizes that Solomon’s success depends on his faithfulness to God’s instructions.
  • "Heed" (‏שָׁמַר‎, shamar): This word means to keep, guard, or pay careful attention. David is telling Solomon not just to know the laws, but to watch over them and make sure he lives by them.
  • "Statutes" (‏חֹק‎, choq) and "Judgments" (‏מִשְׁפָּט‎, mishpat): "Statutes" refers to established rules or decrees, while "judgments" points to decisions or ordinances. Together, they cover the full range of God’s instructions given through Moses.
  • "Be strong" (‏חָזַק‎, chazaq) and "of good courage" (‏אָמַץ‎, amats): These words are often paired in the Old Testament to encourage someone facing a daunting task. They stress the need for inner resolve and determination, not just physical strength.

Why 1 Chronicles 22:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Solomon’s success as king and temple builder is not automatic; it is directly linked to his obedience to God’s law and his personal courage.
  • The language connects Solomon’s mission to earlier leaders like Moses and Joshua, showing continuity in God’s expectations for Israel’s leaders.
  • The verse highlights that true prosperity in Israel’s history is seen as a result of faithfulness to God, not just political skill or wealth.