1 Chronicles – Chapter 14

Old Testament17 Verses

1And Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and cedar trees, and masons, and carpenters, to build him a house.

2And David perceived that the Lord had confirmed him king over Israel, and that his kingdom was exalted over his people Israel.

3And David took other wives in Jerusalem: and he begot sons, and daughters.

4Now these are the names of them that were born to him in Jerusalem: Samua, and Sobad, Nathan, and Solomon,

5Jebahar, and Elisua, and Eliphalet,

6And Noga, and Napheg, and Japhia,

7Elisama, and Baaliada, and Eliphalet.

8And the Philistines hearing that David was anointed king over all Israel, went all up to seek him: and David heard of it, and went out against them.

9And the Philistines came and spread themselves in the vale of Raphaim.

10And David consulted the Lord, saying: Shall I go up against the Philistines, and wilt thou deliver them into my hand? And the Lord said to him: Go up, and I will deliver them into thy hand.

11And when they were come to Baalpharasim, David defeated them there, and he said: God hath divided my enemies by my hand, as waters are divided: and therefore the name of that place was called Baalpharasim.

12And they left there their gods, and David commanded that they should be burnt.

13Another time also the Philistines made an irruption, and spread themselves abroad in the valley.

14And David consulted God again, and God said to him: Go not up after them, turn away from them, and come upon them over against the pear trees.

15And when thou shalt hear the sound of one going in the tops of the pear trees, then shalt thou go out to battle. For God is gone out before thee to strike the army of the Philistines.

16And David did as God had commanded him, and defeated the army of the Philistines, slaying them from Gabaon to Gazera.

17And the name of David became famous in all countries, and the Lord made all nations fear aim.

Reflection for Today

As you read 1 Chronicles Chapter 14, the Catholic Church invites you to encounter God's living Word through the lens of Sacred Tradition. The Catechism teaches that Scripture must be read "within the living Tradition of the whole Church" (CIC 113). The same Holy Spirit who inspired these words continues to guide the Church in understanding them today.

In Catholic theology, every passage of Scripture points ultimately to Christ and finds its fullest meaning in the Church's sacramental life. The Magisterium—the teaching authority of the Pope and bishops—guides the faithful in authentic interpretation. As you meditate on these verses, consider how the Church Fathers and saints have understood them.

Through lectio divina—the ancient Catholic practice of prayerful reading—allow these words to transform your mind and heart, drawing you deeper into communion with Christ and His Church. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate these verses and show you how they call you to deeper faith, hope, and love.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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