1 Chronicles 28:5
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David acknowledges that God has many sons for him, but he emphasizes that God's choice of Solomon wasn't random or just the best of the bunch. It was a divine selection for a specific, holy purpose: to rule God's very own kingdom.
And of all my sons (for the LORD has given me many sons) he has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel.
English Standard Version (ESV)
King David, in his old age, is addressing the leaders of Israel and his son Solomon, preparing for the construction of the temple. He's reflecting on God's faithfulness in giving him many sons, but emphasizes that God specifically chose Solomon to succeed him and build the temple. This sets the stage for David's final instructions and blessings to Solomon, solidifying Solomon's divinely appointed role.
David had many sons, yet one was chosen. Ever feel like leadership, whether in government or family, just 'happens'? This verse reminds us it's far more than chance.
David acknowledges that the Lord is the ultimate source of his many sons and, more importantly, the one who chooses who will lead. The throne isn't just a political seat; it's the 'throne of the LORD over Israel.' This means God is actively involved in placing leaders, even when human processes seem to be at play. David understands that Solomon's rise isn't due to favoritism or David's own decree alone, but a divine selection.
David calls it the 'throne of the LORD over Israel.' What does it mean for a kingdom, or even a church or family, to be 'of the LORD'?
This isn't just about Solomon inheriting a kingdom; it's about him inheriting a sacred trust. The throne symbolizes God's rule and presence among His people. David, knowing his own flaws and the challenges of leading Israel, understands the immense responsibility this position carries. It's a call to righteousness, justice, and faithfulness, all under God's ultimate authority. Solomon's task is to rule for the LORD, reflecting His character and will to the nation.
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malkuth · Hebrew Noun
The administrative structure and authority of God's sovereign rule, which He exercises through chosen agents to bring about His purposes on earth.
David's announcement to Solomon came at a critical juncture. He had united the kingdom and secured Jerusalem as its capital, but the succession needed divine affirmation to ensure stability. David's public declaration in front of key leaders underscored that Solomon's kingship was God's choice, not just David's preference.
c. 1050 BC
Saul Anointed King
Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel, marking the transition from a period of judges to monarchy. This sets a precedent for kingship that David inherits.
c. 1010 BC
David Anointed King
David is secretly anointed king by Samuel while Saul is still reigning, foreshadowing his future kingship and the dynastic line established.
c. 1005 BC
David Conquers Jerusalem
David captures the Jebusite city of Jerusalem and makes it his capital, a pivotal moment that unifies the tribes and establishes a central religious and political hub.
c. 992 BC
David's Son Solomon Born
Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, is born in Jerusalem. His birth occurs during David's established reign.
c. 970 BC— this verse
David Designates Solomon as Successor
Facing his own mortality and having already designated Solomon as his heir, David publicly affirms Solomon's succession, despite having other sons. This speech is recorded in 1 Chronicles 28.
c. 970 BC
Solomon Begins Reign
Upon David's death, Solomon ascends the throne, becoming king over a united Israel and fulfilling David's vision for his successor.
Just as God chose David, who was not the eldest, to be king over Israel, here God chooses Solomon, highlighting divine selection over human expectation or seniority.
2 Samuel 7:12-16This passage speaks of God establishing David's 'house' and his 'kingdom forever,' a promise that finds its immediate fulfillment in Solomon's reign, the one chosen to continue David's legacy.
Deuteronomy 17:14-20The instructions for Israel's king, including the need for humility and adherence to God's law, provide the standard against which Solomon's future reign, chosen by God, is to be measured.
Psalm 72:1-17This psalm is often understood as a prayer for Solomon, prophesying a reign of justice and peace that reflects God's own kingship, a fitting hope for the son chosen to rule.
David acknowledges that God has many sons for him, but he emphasizes that God's choice of Solomon wasn't random or just the best of the bunch. It was a divine selection for a specific, holy purpose: to rule God's very own kingdom.
King David, in his old age, is addressing the leaders of Israel and his son Solomon, preparing for the construction of the temple. He's reflecting on God's faithfulness in giving him many sons, but emphasizes that God specifically chose Solomon to succeed him and build the temple. This sets the stage for David's final instructions and blessings to Solomon, solidifying Solomon's divinely appointed role.
King David, in his old age, is addressing the leaders of Israel and his son Solomon, preparing for the construction of the temple. He's reflecting on God's faithfulness in giving him many sons, but emphasizes that God specifically chose Solomon to succeed him and build the temple. This sets the stage for David's final instructions and blessings to Solomon, solidifying Solomon's divinely appointed role.
"And of all my sons (for the LORD has given me many sons) he has chosen Solomon my son to sit on the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel." — David acknowledges that God has many sons for him, but he emphasizes that God's choice of Solomon wasn't random or just the best of the bunch. It was a divine selection for a specific, holy purpose…
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Last reviewed October 2026
