Old Testament
1 Chronicles 13:1
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see King David taking a moment to gather his military leaders.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
David met with his commanders over thousands and hundreds — every officer in his army.
And David consulted with the captains of thousands and hundreds, and with every leader.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see King David taking a moment to gather his military leaders. He meets with his commanders, who are in charge of thousands and hundreds of soldiers. This shows David's leadership style, as he values the input and advice of those around him. By consulting with every officer in his army, he demonstrates a commitment to teamwork and collaboration. David understands that successful leadership involves listening to others and making informed decisions. This gathering is not just about strategy; it’s about building unity and trust among his leaders. David’s approach highlights the importance of communication and shared vision in achieving common goals. It sets the stage for future actions that will require the support and cooperation of his entire army. This moment reflects a leader who is not only focused on his own ideas but is also open to the insights of his team, which is crucial for any successful endeavor. David’s example encourages us to seek counsel and work together with others in our own lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 13:1 to your life
Consider how you can involve others in your decisions. Whether at work or in personal life, seek input from those around you. This not only strengthens relationships but also leads to better outcomes. Remember, collaboration can bring new perspectives and ideas that you might not have considered alone. Embrace teamwork in your journey forward.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 13:1 teach about leadership?
1 Chronicles 13:1 illustrates the importance of collaborative leadership. King David consults with his military commanders, showing that effective leaders value the input and expertise of their team. This verse emphasizes that gathering insights from others fosters unity and trust, which are essential for making informed decisions and achieving common goals.
How can I apply the principles from 1 Chronicles 13:1 in my life?
You can apply the principles from 1 Chronicles 13:1 by actively seeking input from others in your decision-making processes. Whether in your workplace or personal life, involving team members or family in discussions can lead to better outcomes and strengthen relationships. Embrace the idea of teamwork and open communication to enhance collaboration and achieve shared objectives.
Why is consultation important in leadership according to 1 Chronicles 13:1?
Consultation is crucial in leadership as demonstrated in 1 Chronicles 13:1 because it allows leaders to gather diverse perspectives and insights. This practice not only helps in making well-informed decisions but also builds a sense of ownership and commitment among team members. By consulting with his commanders, David fosters a collaborative environment that is vital for effective leadership.
What can we learn about teamwork from 1 Chronicles 13:1?
1 Chronicles 13:1 teaches us that teamwork is essential for success. King David's meeting with his commanders highlights the value of collective effort and shared vision. By consulting with his leaders, David shows that collaboration leads to stronger strategies and outcomes. This verse encourages us to prioritize teamwork in our own endeavors, recognizing that working together often yields better results than going solo.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Genealogies (Chs 1–9)
The record begins with the line from Adam to Noah and his sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The descendants of Japheth are listed, followed by the descendants of Ham, which include Nimrod, a mighty one in the earth, and the ancestors of the Philistines. The line of Shem is traced down to Abram, who is Abraham. The sons of Abraham—Ishmael and Isaac—are named, along with the sons of Abraham’s concubine Keturah. The generations of Ishmael are listed, followed by the descendants of Isaac’s son Esau, including the dukes and early kings of Edom.
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