Old Testament

1 Chronicles 21:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, Joab, the commander of David's army, reports the results of a census to King David.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Ezra
Written
Around 430 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Post-exilic Jews
CBTClear Bible Translation

Joab presented the census results to David. In all of Israel there were 1,100,000 men who could fight, and in Judah there were 470,000 fighting men.

KJVKing James Version

And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all they of Israel were a thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah was four hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, Joab, the commander of David's army, reports the results of a census to King David. The census reveals that there are 1,100,000 men in Israel who are capable of fighting, while Judah has 470,000 fighting men. This information is significant as it reflects the military strength of David's kingdom. However, the act of counting the people was controversial and seen as a lack of trust in God’s provision. David's decision to conduct the census ultimately leads to serious consequences for the nation. The numbers presented by Joab highlight the size of the army but also raise questions about reliance on human strength versus divine support. This moment serves as a reminder that true strength comes from faith, not just numbers. It challenges us to consider where we place our trust and how we measure success in our lives, whether through tangible resources or spiritual faithfulness. Joab's report is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for future events in David's reign.

How to apply 1 Chronicles 21:5 to your life

This passage encourages us to reflect on where we place our trust. Are we relying on our own strength and resources, or are we looking to God for guidance and support? It’s a reminder that true power comes from faith, not just numbers or statistics. Trusting in God can lead to greater outcomes than we can achieve on our own. Let this inspire you to seek divine guidance in your decisions and challenges today.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 1 Chronicles 21:5 mean?

1 Chronicles 21:5 recounts Joab reporting the results of a census to King David, revealing that Israel has 1,100,000 fighting men and Judah has 470,000. This highlights the military strength of David's kingdom but also raises concerns about David's reliance on numbers instead of trusting in God.

What is the significance of the census in 1 Chronicles 21:5?

The census in 1 Chronicles 21:5 is significant as it reflects the military capability of David's kingdom. However, it is also viewed as a lack of faith in God's provision, leading to serious consequences for Israel.

What does Joab's report in 1 Chronicles 21:5 indicate?

Joab's report in 1 Chronicles 21:5 indicates the size of the army available for battle, showing the strength of Israel and Judah. It serves as a pivotal moment that raises questions about reliance on human strength versus divine support.

What themes are present in 1 Chronicles 21:5?

Themes in 1 Chronicles 21:5 include military strength, the importance of trust in God, the consequences of actions, and the challenges of leadership. The verse emphasizes the tension between counting resources and relying on faith.

The Book of 1 Chronicles
Book Summary

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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