1 Chronicles 21:25

So David gave to Ornan for the place six hundred shekels of gold by weight.

1 Chronicles 21:25 (KJV)

Context

This verse records the conclusion of King David’s purchase of a threshing floor from Ornan the Jebusite. The larger account in 1 Chronicles 21 tells how David sinned by numbering Israel, and God sent a plague on the nation. David repented, and the prophet Gad told him to build an altar on Ornan’s threshing floor to stop the plague.

Ornan offered to give David the land, oxen, and wheat without charge. David refused, saying he would not offer to the Lord that which cost him nothing (1 Chronicles 21:23-24). In verse 25, David paid Ornan six hundred shekels of gold by weight for the place. This was a large sum, roughly fifteen pounds of gold, showing that David gave generously and fairly.

Meaning

The phrase “by weight” shows that the payment was exact and honest. David did not take advantage of Ornan’s kindness. He insisted on a fair price, respecting both the property and the owner. This act was not a small gesture; it was a serious, costly transaction.

David’s payment also fulfilled God’s command to build an altar on that specific place. He did not bargain or delay. He obeyed fully, even though it cost him greatly. The purchase shows that true worship involves real sacrifice and personal cost.

Biblical connections

The threshing floor David bought later became the site of Solomon’s temple (2 Chronicles 3:1). This purchase, made in repentance, prepared the way for a permanent place of worship for Israel. The same land that witnessed David’s sorrow and sacrifice would become the center of God’s presence among His people.

David’s refusal to offer a sacrifice that cost him nothing echoes the principle that genuine worship is valuable and costly. His example stands in contrast to those who seek to honor God without giving anything of worth.

Application

David’s actions teach us to acknowledge our sins honestly and to take concrete steps to make things right. When we fail, we should not make excuses but humble ourselves before God, as David did.

Our worship should also involve personal sacrifice. This may mean giving generously, serving others selflessly, or investing time in prayer and Scripture. Worship that costs us nothing may not truly reflect our devotion.

We can also learn to respect the property and rights of others. David could have taken the land for free, but he chose to pay fairly. In our dealings, we should be honest and generous, not taking advantage of others’ kindness.

Reflection

Consider what your worship costs you. Do you give God your best, or only what is easy? David’s costly gift reminds us that God values a heart that is willing to sacrifice for Him. When we give to God, we are not losing; we are investing in something eternal.

God’s mercy is greater than our failures. David’s sin brought judgment, but his repentance opened the way for blessing. No matter how grave our mistakes, we can approach God with a repentant heart, and He will forgive and restore us.