1 Chronicles 16:15

Authorized King James Version

Be ye mindful always of his covenant; the word which he commanded to a thousand generations;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זִכְר֤וּ
H2142
Be ye mindful
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#2
לְעוֹלָם֙
H5769
always
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#3
בְּרִית֔וֹ
H1285
of his covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#4
דָּבָ֥ר
H1697
the word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#5
צִוָּ֖ה
H6680
which he commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#6
לְאֶ֥לֶף
H505
to a thousand
hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand
#7
דּֽוֹר׃
H1755
generations
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

Analysis

The covenant theme here intersects with God's relationship with His people from Abraham through the new covenant. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of evolution from creation covenant through Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, to new covenant. The phrase emphasizing covenant contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's relational commitment from Noah to the new covenant.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection