1 Chronicles 21:22

Then David said to Ornan, Grant me the place of this threshingfloor, that I may build an altar therein unto the Lord: thou shalt grant it me for the full price: that the plague may be stayed from the people.

1 Chronicles 21:22 (KJV)

Context

This verse comes from a painful moment in King David’s reign. David had ordered a census of Israel, an act of pride and trust in military strength rather than in God. Because of this sin, God sent a plague that brought suffering and death to the people. David saw the devastation and sought to make amends. The angel of the Lord had pointed him to the threshingfloor of Ornan, also called Araunah in 2 Samuel 24. Here David speaks directly to Ornan, asking for the place so he can build an altar to the Lord.

Meaning

David’s request is specific and humble. He asks for the threshingfloor, an open space used to separate grain from chaff, so he may build an altar and offer sacrifices. His purpose is clear: to stop the plague. David does not demand the land or take it by royal power. Instead, he asks and promises to pay the full price. This shows that true repentance is not careless or cheap. David understands that a sacrifice offered to God must cost him something real.

Biblical connections

The threshingfloor stood on Mount Moriah, a place already linked to Abraham’s obedience and later chosen for Solomon’s temple (2 Chronicles 3:1). What began as a place of judgment became a place of worship. David’s insistence on paying full price also connects to the principle that genuine offerings to God are costly, not convenient. The plague was stayed only after David offered sacrifices on that altar (1 Chronicles 21:26), showing that atonement, not mere apology, was required.

Application

David’s example teaches us to take our sin seriously and to respond with real action. When we have wronged God or others, we should not look for the easiest way out. Repentance may require personal cost, whether time, money, or pride. David did not use his position to avoid paying Ornan. He honored the man and the Lord by giving full value. We too should be honest and generous in making things right, especially when our failure has harmed others.

Reflection

God’s mercy is greater than our failure. David’s sin brought judgment, but his repentance opened the way for healing. The same God who halted the plague welcomes all who turn to Him with sincere hearts. The place of judgment became the site of the temple, a sign that God can transform our worst moments into foundations for worship. Let us examine our own hearts and ask whether we are willing to offer God a sacrifice that truly costs us something.