And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of the LORD, as did David his father.

1 KINGS 15:11KJV
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1 Kings 15:11 (KJV)

What does 1 Kings 15:11 mean?

1 Kings 15:11 says that Asa, who became king of Judah, acted in a way that was right according to what the LORD considered good, just as David, his ancestor, had done. The verse highlights Asa’s faithfulness and moral character in the eyes of God, comparing him favorably to King David.

This verse is part of a summary about King Asa’s reign, written by the narrator of 1 Kings for the readers of ancient Israel. The statement sets Asa apart from many kings before and after him, emphasizing that he followed the LORD’s standards rather than just the traditions or politics of his time. The comparison to David is significant because David is often held up as the model king in the biblical narrative.

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 15:11

  • “Did” (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This word means “to do” or “to make.” In this context, it points to Asa’s actions, not just his intentions or beliefs. The focus is on what Asa actually did during his reign.
  • “Right” (יָשָׁר, yashar): This word is often understood as “upright,” “straight,” or “right.” It means that Asa’s actions lined up with what was considered morally correct by God’s standards, not just by human opinion.
  • “Eyes” (עַיִן, ʿayin): This word is used in the phrase “in the eyes of the LORD,” which is a common biblical way of saying “from God’s perspective.” It reminds the reader that the evaluation comes from God’s viewpoint, not just from people.
  • “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God. The use of this name here stresses that Asa’s standard was not just general goodness, but faithfulness to the God of Israel.

Why 1 Kings 15:11 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Asa’s reign is being measured by God’s standards, not just by political success or popular opinion, which is a key theme in the books of Kings.
  • The comparison to David shows that Asa is being held up as a positive example, which is rare among the kings described in 1 Kings, many of whom are criticized for doing what was “evil in the eyes of the LORD.”
  • By stating that Asa did what was right “as did David his father,” the verse connects Asa to the covenant promises made to David, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in leadership.