Definition: And the time that he reigned over Israel [was] forty years; seven years reigned he in Hebron, and thirty and three [years] reigned he in Jerusalem.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Chronicles 29:27. It’s a pretty interesting snapshot of King David’s reign! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, David ruled Israel for forty years. Let’s unpack that: “And the time that he reigned over Israel…” This refers to King David’s entire time as king. “…was forty years.” This is a crucial number – it's a significant amount of time. “…seven years reigned he in Hebron…” Hebron was a specific city in Israel, and David spent seven years there. Think of it as the beginning of his rule. "...and thirty and three years reigned he in Jerusalem.” This is the most important part! David spent thirty-three years ruling Jerusalem, the heart of Israel’s religious center. So, what does this tell us about David? It tells us that: He was a powerful and influential leader. He wasn't just any king; he ruled over a significant portion of Israel. He focused on Jerusalem. The time spent in Jerusalem shows that David prioritized religious importance and the Temple, which became central to his rule. It’s a long period of leadership. It highlights how significant his reign was within the history of Israel. Important Note: While this passage describes his reign, it's important to remember that the Bible doesn’t give us a complete picture of David's entire life. This verse is part of a larger narrative about his time and actions. Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give you another passage from the Bible?