History · Old Testament
1 Chronicles
Adam to c. 970 BC
- Section
- History · Old Testament
- Events span
- Adam to c. 970 BC
- Written
- c. 450–430 BC critical view: c. 400 BC
- Author
- Ezra (by tradition) critical view: The Chronicler, an anonymous author, c. 400 BC
1 Chronicles retells Israel's history for the returned exiles, from Adam through genealogies to the reign of David — emphasizing David's role in organizing worship and preparing to build the temple. It offers a worship-centered portrait of the king.
Chronological placement: Parallels 1–2 Samuel (David's reign, c. 1010–970 BC); placed with them, though written centuries later for the returned exiles.
Key themes
- Genealogy and identity
- David and true worship
- Preparing for the temple
- God's covenant with David
- Hope for the restored community
Structure & key events
Genealogies from Adam (1 Chronicles 1–9)
- Genealogies trace Israel from Adam through the tribes, dwelling on Judah, Levi, and the families that returned from exile
The Reign of David (1 Chronicles 10–29)
- Saul dies, and David is made king over all Israel and captures Jerusalem
- David brings the ark to Jerusalem with rejoicing after an initial failure
- God covenants to establish David's dynasty and throne forever
- David's census brings a plague, and he buys the future site of the temple
- David organizes the priests, Levites, and temple worship and gathers building materials
- David charges Solomon to build the temple and blesses God before the assembly
“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.”