16:1-43 The transfer of the Ark (16:1-3) and the conclusion of the event (16:43) are reported exactly as in Samuel (see 2 Sam 6:17-20). However, between these bookends, the Chronicler elaborates on the celebrations that accompanied the event and on the permanent arrangements for worship (1 Chr 16:4-42). David’s psalm of celebration is the central focus of the account.

16:7-36 David’s song of thanksgiving is a composite of three psalms: 16:8-22 draws from Ps 105:1-15; 1 Chr 16:23-33 draws from Ps 96; and 1 Chr 16:34-38 draws from Ps 106:1, 47-48. The composer made several adjustments to the sources to fit this occasion. The Temple did not exist when the Ark was brought to Jerusalem, so the Chronicler says that strength and joy fill his dwelling (1 Chr 16:27) instead of “his sanctuary” (Ps 96:6) and requires the worshiper to come into his presence (1 Chr 16:29) instead of “into his courts” (Ps 96:8). The name “Abraham” (Ps 105:9) is also changed to Israel (1 Chr 16:13) to focus specifically on the nation as the fulfillment of the promises to Abraham. The hymn does not mention the judgment of the earth (Ps 96:10, 13; cp. 1 Chr 16:30, 33) because it was not relevant to the dedication of the Ark.

The First Book of Chronicles Purpose To instill hope—largely by appeal to the Davidic promise—among Jews who had returned to their land but were living in subjugation Author Unknown Date Likely written around 400 BC, largely recording events that occurred around 1011–971 BC Setting Judea had been resettled by Jews following the Exile, but these Jews were still living under foreign (Persian) rule; the account essentially traces the reign of David