1 Chronicles 29:30 (KJV)

What does 1 Chronicles 29:30 mean?

1 Chronicles 29:30 describes how the acts, power, and experiences of King David, along with what happened during his reign over Israel and the surrounding kingdoms, were recorded. The verse points out that these details were written down to preserve the history of David’s rule and the events of his time.

This verse comes at the end of 1 Chronicles, where the writer is summarizing the sources that tell about David’s life and reign. The focus is on David’s strength (“might”), the significant events (“times”) that occurred, and how these affected both Israel and the other nations (“kingdoms of the countries”) around them. The verse highlights that David’s story was considered important enough to be carefully documented.

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 29:30

• “Reign” (מַלְכוּת, malkhut): This word means kingship or royal rule. Its use here emphasizes David’s official authority as king, not just his personal story.
• “Might” (גְּבוּרָה, gevurah): This word refers to strength, power, or heroic deeds. It points to David’s notable achievements and the strength he showed as a leader.
• “Times” (עֵת, et): This word often means specific periods or significant events. Here, it refers to the important happenings and circumstances that shaped David’s reign.
• “Over” (עָבַר, avar): This verb means to pass over or come upon. In this context, it describes the events and situations that “came over” David and Israel, highlighting the challenges and changes they faced.
• “Kingdoms” (מַמְלָכָה, mamlakhah) and “countries” (אֶרֶץ, erets): These words point to the broader political scene, showing that David’s story involved not just Israel but also the other nations around them.

Why 1 Chronicles 29:30 matters

• This verse clarifies that the biblical account of David’s life draws from detailed records, not just oral tradition or legend, giving weight to its historical value.
• By mentioning both Israel and the surrounding kingdoms, the verse shows that David’s reign had wide-reaching effects, not limited to his own people.
• The focus on “might” and “times” reminds the reader that a king’s legacy is shaped by both his actions and the events he faces, not just by holding a title.