And he died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour: and Solomon his son reigned in his stead.

1 CHRONICLES 29:28KJV
Know the Bible

1 Chronicles 29:28 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 29:28 mean?

1 Chronicles 29:28 describes the death of King David, saying he died at a good old age, having lived a full life marked by many days, wealth, and honor. After David’s death, his son Solomon became king in his place.

This verse is part of the summary at the end of David’s life, written by the Chronicler to the people of Israel. It highlights David’s long and prosperous reign and the peaceful transfer of power to Solomon, which was significant for Israel’s history and stability.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 29:28

  • "Died" (מָוֶת, mavet): This word is the standard Hebrew term for death, simply marking the end of David’s earthly life without extra drama or tragedy.
  • "Good" (טוֹב, tov) and "age" (שֵׂיבָה, seivah): The phrase "good old age" uses these words to suggest not just advanced years, but a life that was considered blessed and complete in the eyes of the community.
  • "Full" (שָׂבֵעַ, savea) and "days" (יָמִים, yamim): "Full of days" is a Hebrew way of saying someone lived a complete and satisfying life, not just in length but in quality.
  • "Riches" (עֹשֶׁר, osher) and "honour" (כָּבוֹד, kavod): These words emphasize that David’s life was marked by both material wealth and public respect, underlining his success as king.

Why 1 Chronicles 29:28 matters

  • The verse clarifies that David’s reign ended peacefully and honorably, which was not always the case for ancient kings and helps explain the stability of Solomon’s succession.
  • By listing "days, riches, and honour," the Chronicler emphasizes that David’s life was seen as complete and blessed from every angle valued in his culture—longevity, prosperity, and reputation.
  • This verse connects directly to the larger story of Israel’s monarchy, showing a smooth transition from David to Solomon, which sets the stage for the building of the temple and the next chapter in Israel’s history.

Where else these words appear

“full” Hebrew H7649 · used in 10 verses

  • Genesis 25:8 Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.
  • 1 Samuel 2:5 They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.
  • Job 42:17 So Job died, being old and full of days.

“age” Hebrew H7872 · used in 19 verses

  • Genesis 15:15 And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age.
  • Deuteronomy 32:25 The sword without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man and the virgin, the suckling also with the man of gray hairs.
  • Psalms 71:18 Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.

“riches” Hebrew H6239 · used in 36 verses

  • Genesis 31:16 For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children's: now then, whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.
  • 2 Chronicles 32:27 And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;
  • Proverbs 22:1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.