1 Chronicles 29:1

Furthermore, Dauid the King said vnto all the congregation, Solomon my sonne, whome alone God hath chosen, is yet young and tender, and the worke is great: for the palace is not for man, but for the Lord God. 1 Chronicles 29:1 (KJV)

The book of 1 Chronicles is a historical account that focuses on the reign of King David and the establishment of the Davidic dynasty. In chapter 29, David is making preparations for the construction of the temple, which his son Solomon would later build.

According to 1 Chronicles, David addressed the congregation, noting that Solomon, though young, had been chosen by God to undertake the great work of building the temple—a house intended for the LORD God rather than for man. In this verse David speaks to the entire congregation of Israel and acknowledges that Solomon, his son, has been divinely chosen by God to succeed him as king and to carry out the significant task of building the temple. David recognizes that Solomon is young and inexperienced, and therefore emphasizes the magnitude of the work ahead.

David acknowledges that building the temple is a great and monumental undertaking. The temple is not just a physical structure but also represents the dwelling place of the Lord God. It signifies a place where people can come to worship and seek God’s presence. David recognizes that the construction of such a magnificent place is beyond human capability alone.

David declares that the palace is not meant for man but for the Lord God. This statement emphasizes the sacredness and holiness of the temple. It serves as a reminder that the purpose of the temple is to provide a place where people can come to honor and worship God, to offer sacrifices, and to seek His blessings.