1 Chronicles 22:16 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 22:16 mean?

1 Chronicles 22:16 means that there is an unlimited supply of gold, silver, bronze, and iron available for the temple project, so the person being addressed should get up and start working, with the assurance that God will be with them. The verse is a call to action, encouraging confidence because of both abundant resources and divine support.

In this verse, King David is speaking to his son Solomon, preparing him to build the temple in Jerusalem. David emphasizes that all the necessary materials—gold, silver, brass, and iron—are available in abundance, and urges Solomon to begin the work without hesitation. The assurance that "the LORD be with thee" highlights that Solomon is not alone in this huge task; God's presence and help are promised.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 22:16

• The word for "gold" is זָהָב (zahav, H2091), which simply means gold, the most precious metal mentioned, emphasizing the richness of the temple's resources.
• "Silver" is כֶּסֶף (kesef, H3701), another valuable metal, showing that no expense is being spared for the temple.
• "Brass" is נְחֹשֶׁת (nechoshet, H5178), which can also mean bronze or copper, used for various temple furnishings.
• "Iron" is בַּרְזֶל (barzel, H1270), a strong and practical metal, highlighting the variety and sufficiency of materials.
• The word for "number" is מִסְפָּר (mispar, H4557), meaning count or total, stressing that the quantity is beyond calculation.
• "Arise" is קוּם (qum, H6965), which means to get up or stand, used here as a strong encouragement to take action.
• "Doing" comes from עָשָׂה (asah, H6213), meaning to make or do, focusing on the act of beginning the work.
• "LORD" is יְהוָה (YHWH, H3068), the personal name of God, underlining that this is not just a human project but one under God's direction.

Why 1 Chronicles 22:16 matters

• This verse clears up any doubt about whether Solomon would have enough resources to build the temple; David assures him that there is more than enough.
• The emphasis on both abundant materials and God's presence shows that both practical needs and spiritual support are important for the task.
• In the wider passage, this verse marks the transition from David's preparations to Solomon's responsibility, highlighting a moment of encouragement and commissioning.