Old Testament
1 Chronicles 3:4
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, we learn about the six sons born to King David while he was in Hebron.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
These 6 sons were born to him in Hebron, where he reigned for 7 years and 6 months. He then reigned in Jerusalem for 33 years.
These six were born unto him in Hebron; and there he reigned seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the six sons born to King David while he was in Hebron. This was a significant time for David, as he ruled there for seven years and six months before moving his reign to Jerusalem. His time in Hebron was foundational, establishing his leadership and family. After Hebron, David ruled in Jerusalem for thirty-three years, marking a period of great influence and expansion for the nation of Israel. The mention of his sons highlights the importance of family in leadership. David's reign in both locations reflects his journey from a regional leader to a king of a united nation. This transition symbolizes growth, responsibility, and the challenges of leadership. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the legacy David left behind, not just in terms of power but also in his family and the future of Israel. His story encourages us to consider how our own leadership and family relationships shape our legacy and impact those around us. Each phase of his reign teaches us about commitment and the importance of strong foundations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Chronicles 3:4 to your life
Reflect on your own leadership roles, whether at work, home, or in your community. Consider how your relationships influence your effectiveness. Like David, strive to build a strong foundation in your personal and professional life, ensuring that your legacy is one of positive impact and growth for those around you. Lead with intention and care, valuing your connections with others.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Chronicles Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Chronicles 3:4 tell us about King David's reign?
1 Chronicles 3:4 informs us that King David had six sons born to him in Hebron during his reign of seven years and six months. This period was crucial for establishing his leadership before he moved to Jerusalem, where he reigned for an additional thirty-three years. The verse highlights the significance of both his family and his leadership journey.
Why is the mention of David's sons important in this verse?
The mention of David's six sons in 1 Chronicles 3:4 emphasizes the importance of family in leadership. It illustrates how personal relationships and lineage play a role in a leader's legacy. David's sons were part of his heritage and would influence the future of Israel, showcasing the interconnectedness of family and governance.
How does David's time in Hebron compare to his time in Jerusalem?
David's time in Hebron, lasting seven years and six months, was foundational for his leadership, allowing him to establish his rule over Judah. In contrast, his thirty-three years in Jerusalem marked a period of greater influence and expansion for the entire nation of Israel. This transition reflects his growth from a regional leader to a king of a united nation.
What lessons can we learn from David's leadership in this verse?
From David's leadership as described in 1 Chronicles 3:4, we learn the importance of building a strong foundation in both personal and professional life. His journey illustrates the value of commitment, responsibility, and the impact of family relationships on leadership. It encourages us to reflect on how our actions and connections shape our legacy.

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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