And David said, Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be builded for the LORD must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will therefore now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.

1 CHRONICLES 22:5KJV
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1 Chronicles 22:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 22:5 mean?

1 Chronicles 22:5 describes King David deciding to make extensive preparations for building a great temple for the LORD, because his son Solomon is still young and inexperienced. David wants the temple to be magnificent and famous throughout other nations, so he gathers materials and plans before his own death.

David is speaking about his son Solomon and the future temple in Jerusalem. David recognizes that Solomon (called "young and tender") is not yet ready for such a huge project, but the temple ("house") must be "exceeding magnifical"—meaning it should be grand and bring honor to God everywhere. Because of this, David takes it upon himself to prepare everything needed, showing his deep care for both his son and for worship of the LORD.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 22:5

  • "Young" (נַעַר, naʿar) and "tender" (רַךְ, rakh): These words emphasize Solomon’s inexperience and vulnerability, highlighting why David feels responsible for the preparations.
  • "Exceeding" (לְמַעְלָה, lemaʿlah): This word means "above" or "beyond," stressing that the temple should be more magnificent than anything else.
  • "Magnifical" (גָּדוֹל, gadol): This word means "great" or "important," pointing to the temple’s intended splendor and significance.
  • "Prepared" (כּוּן, kun): This verb means to establish or make ready, showing David’s active role in ensuring everything is set before Solomon begins.

Why 1 Chronicles 22:5 matters

  • This verse clarifies that David, though not allowed to build the temple himself, still played a crucial role by preparing resources and plans for Solomon.
  • The verse highlights the importance of the temple not just for Israel, but as a place of fame and glory "throughout all countries," showing a vision for God’s honor among all nations.
  • It sets the stage for the transition of leadership from David to Solomon, showing David’s care in setting up his son for success in a task he considers sacred and monumental.