Question 1

What does 1 Kings 14:29 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Kings 14:29 states that the rest of King Rehoboam’s actions and accomplishments are recorded in another historical source called “the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah.” This verse signals to the reader that more details about Rehoboam’s reign exist outside the current narrative. The verse is part of a summary section at the end of Rehoboam’s story. The writer is addressing the reader, noting that not everything about Rehoboam’s rule is included here, but can be found in another official record. This was a common way ancient writers pointed to other sources for those interested in more information.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 14:29

Accepted Answer

“rest” (יֶתֶר, yether): This word means “remainder” or “what is left.” Here, it refers to everything about Rehoboam that hasn’t been described in the current account. “acts” (דָּבָר, davar): While often translated “acts” or “deeds,” this word more broadly means “words” or “matters.” It can include both what someone did and what was said or decided. “book” (סֵפֶר, sefer): This is the general Hebrew word for a written document or scroll. In this context, it refers to an official record or chronicle. “chronicles” (דָּבָר, davar; יָמִים, yamim): The phrase “book of the chronicles” uses “davar” (matters) and “yamim” (days), which together mean “the record of the events of the days.” This points to an official annal or royal record, not the later biblical books called Chronicles.

Question 3

Why 1 Kings 14:29 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective and that official records existed with more detail about each king’s reign. The mention of “the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah” shows that Judah and Israel kept separate historical records, highlighting the divided nature of the kingdom at this time. It helps readers understand that the biblical narrative is shaped by the author’s focus and purpose, not by an attempt to record every possible detail.

1 Kings 14:29 (KJV)