But the word of the LORD came to me, saying, Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not build an house unto my name, because thou hast shed much blood upon the earth in my sight.
But the LORD spoke to me, saying, 'You have spilled much blood and fought many wars. You will not build a house for my name because you have shed so much blood on the earth before my eyes.'
God is telling David that because he was a warrior who fought many battles and killed many people, he would not be allowed to build God's temple.
📚 Historical Context
This verse records God's message to King David about why he could not build the temple in Jerusalem. David had spent much of his reign fighting wars to establish and defend Israel, including battles against the Philistines, Moabites, and other neighboring nations. Though David was a man after God's own heart, his role as a warrior made him unsuitable for building God's house of peace - that honor would go to his son Solomon, whose name means 'peace.'
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.