What does 1 Chronicles 16:22 mean?
Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm. 1 Chronicles 16:22
Explanation
[Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.] 1 Chronicles 16:22
This verse is part of a psalm of thanksgiving that is being sung by Asaph and his fellow Levites, as appointed by King David. This particular verse is a divine command, indicating that God’s chosen individuals—the anointed and prophets—are under His protection. The anointed, in this context, were usually kings or priests chosen by God for a specific purpose, and prophets were individuals called to deliver God’s messages to the people. The literal meaning is that they should not be harmed or mistreated. On a deeper level, the verse serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and his care for those tasked with specific roles in His divine plan.
Historical Context
The verse is found in the First Book of Chronicles which is part of the Old Testament, a book that focuses on the history of Israel and its worship practices. The psalm in 1 Chronicles 16 was sung at the celebration of the Ark of the Covenant being brought to Jerusalem. The singing of this psalm marks a unification of Israel’s religious life with David’s kingship. Historically, kings and religious leaders were often considered God’s appointed representatives on Earth, and this verse echoes the belief that they should be afforded protection and respect.
Theological Insights
Theologically, this verse underscores the Jewish and Christian belief in a personal, protective God. Within Christian theology, this verse is sometimes seen as prefiguring Jesus Christ as the ultimate “Anointed One” (Messiah) who should not be harmed. From a Judaic standpoint, the anointing with oil signifies a special setting apart for God’s purposes, and this verse can be a call to respect those in leadership and spiritual roles. The prophets, often bearers of difficult truths, are also seen as under God’s particular care.
Practical Applications
In practical terms, this verse might be used as a counsel to respect and protect those in positions of spiritual authority. It could also be interpreted as an admonition against persecuting those who claim to have a direct calling from God. By extension, the broader application could be to honor and protect individuals who are serving others and living out a call to justice, mercy, and righteousness in society.
Cross-References
- Psalm 105:15 – “[Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.]”
- Isaiah 45:1 – “Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;”
- 1 Samuel 24:6 – “And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD’s anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD.”
- 1 Samuel 26:9 – “And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD’s anointed, and be guiltless?”
- 2 Samuel 1:14 – “And David said unto him, How wast thou not afraid to stretch forth thine hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?”
Language Study
In the original Hebrew, key terms to study here include “touch” (נָגַע, naga’), which can mean to strike or harm, and emphasizes physical contact that should be avoided. “Mine anointed” (מְשִׁיחִי, m’shichiy) refers to an individual who has been anointed with oil as a sign of consecration to a holy service, often a king or priest. “Prophets” (נְבִיא, n’vi) refers to messengers or spokespersons tasked with conveying divine messages.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
In many cultures, rulers and religious leaders were often considered to be divinely appointed or protected. Compare this to the Egyptian pharaohs, who were seen as gods in human form, or to the Roman emperors who, during the imperial period, were often deified and given sacred status. This conferring of sacredness to leaders can be seen across multiple ancient cultures and religious systems.
Scientific Perspectives
While there aren’t direct scientific perspectives on this verse, modern psychology does regard the respect of authority figures and the protection of individuals in vulnerable positions as important social mechanisms. Furthermore, social sciences may study the impact of such beliefs on group cohesion and respect for leadership.
commentaries
Biblical scholars and theologians reflect on this verse with varying perspectives. Some, like Matthew Henry, see the “anointed” as symbolic of Christ and the “prophets” as the messengers of the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of protecting God’s work and messengers on Earth. Others, such as John Gill, provide historical accounts of the context in which the psalm was written, suggesting that the verse may be referring directly to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—viewed as “anointed” prophets and thus under divine protection.
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