📖WEB · 1 Chronicles 14:5
What does 1 Chronicles 14:5 mean?
"Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet,"
— 1 Chronicles 14:5 (World English Bible)
Surrounding context
David perceived that Yahweh had established him king over Israel; for his kingdom was exalted on high, for his people Israel’s sake.
David took more wives at Jerusalem, and David became the father of more sons and daughters.
These are the names of the children whom he had in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon,
Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet,
Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia,
Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.
When the Philistines heard that David was anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to seek David; and David heard of it, and went out against them.
Explanation
First Chronicles 14:5 is part of a list of names, three of the sons born to King David after he took up residence in Jerusalem. The verse itself simply names three individuals — Ibhar, Elishua, and Elpelet — with no narrative detail, no story, and no recorded actions. It reads almost like an entry in a family record, because that is exactly what it is.
The context is important for understanding why this verse exists at all. First Chronicles was written after the Babylonian exile, likely by a priestly or Levitical author, for a Jewish community that had lost its land, its temple, and much of its sense of identity. The Chronicler's purpose was to remind the returning exiles who they were by tracing genealogies and retelling Israel's history with an emphasis on David's kingship, worship, and covenant faithfulness. Chapter 14 recounts David's rise to power in Jerusalem — his house built by Hiram of Tyre, his victories over the Philistines, and, in verses 3-7, the
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