1 Chronicles 29:1
Furthermore David the king said unto all the congregation, Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, is yet young and tender, and the work is great: for the palace is not for man, but for the LORD God.
1 Chronicles 29:1 · King James Version
Meaning
King David, speaking to the congregation, acknowledges the great task ahead in building the temple for the Lord. He emphasizes the youth and inexperience of his son Solomon, whom God has chosen for this monumental task. David recognizes the magnitude of the work, stating that the palace they are building is not for man, but for the Lord God. This verse highlights the importance of humility and reverence in serving God, acknowledging that the work being done is not for personal glory or achievement, but for the glory of God. David's words serve as a reminder to prioritize God's will above our own desires and to approach our tasks with a sense of awe and respect for the Lord. By recognizing the sacred purpose of the temple construction, David sets the tone for the congregation to approach their work with a spirit of dedication and devotion to God.
Theological Overview
David the king's words to the congregation in this verse highlight the importance of Solomon, his chosen son, in carrying out the great work of building the temple for the Lord. The phrase "whom alone God hath chosen" emphasizes the divine selection of Solomon for this task, indicating that his appointment was not of human origin but rather ordained by God. David acknowledges Solomon's youth and inexperience, underscoring the magnitude of the work ahead of him. The description of the palace not being for man but for the Lord God underscores the sacred nature of the temple construction, emphasizing that the ultimate purpose of the building is to honor and glorify God. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of God's sovereign will in the selection of individuals for specific purposes and the necessity of carrying out tasks for the glory of the Lord.
1 Chronicles 29:1 in other translations
American Standard Version
And David the king said unto all the assembly, Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, is yet young and tender, and the work is great; for the palace is not for man, but for Jehovah God.
World English Bible
David the king said to all the assembly, “Solomon my son, whom alone God has chosen, is yet young and tender, and the work is great; for the palace is not for man, but for Yahweh God.
Douay-Rheims
And king David said to all the assembly: Solomon my son, whom alone God hath chosen, is as yet young and tender: and the work is great, for a house is prepared not for man, but for God.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Moreouer Dauid the King sayde vnto all the Congregation, God hath chosen Salomon mine onely sonne yong and tender, and the worke is great: for this house is not for man, but for the Lord God.