Ornan, also known as Araunah, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative concerning King David's purchase of the threshing floor, which later became the site for Solomon's Temple. Ornan was a Jebusite, a group of people who originally inhabited Jerusalem before its conquest by King David. The account of Ornan and his sons is primarily found in 1 Chronicles 21.

Biblical Account

The account of Ornan's sons is intertwined with the events following David's census of Israel, which incurred God's displeasure. As a result, a plague was sent upon Israel. In an effort to halt the plague, David was instructed by the prophet Gad to build an altar to the Lord on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.

1 Chronicles 21:20-21 states: "Now Ornan was threshing wheat when he turned and saw the angel; and his four sons who were with him hid themselves. As David came to Ornan, Ornan looked out and saw him and went out from the threshing floor and bowed down before David with his face to the ground."

Role and Significance

Ornan's sons are mentioned briefly in the narrative, highlighting their presence during a moment of divine intervention. Their reaction to the angel of the Lord—hiding themselves—reflects the awe and fear that often accompanied angelic appearances in the biblical text. This reaction underscores the gravity of the situation and the holiness of the site that would later become the location of the Temple.

The presence of Ornan's sons also emphasizes the familial aspect of the threshing floor, suggesting that it was a family enterprise. This detail adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the personal sacrifice involved when Ornan offered the site to David. Despite the fear and potential loss, Ornan and his family demonstrated a willingness to submit to God's will, as seen in Ornan's offer to give the threshing floor and the oxen for the burnt offering to David at no cost.

Theological Implications

The account of Ornan and his sons serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience and sacrifice. The threshing floor, a place of judgment and separation, becomes a site of divine mercy and future worship. Ornan's sons, though not central figures, are part of a pivotal moment in Israel's history, witnessing the transition from judgment to grace.

Their brief mention in the biblical narrative invites reflection on the role of ordinary individuals in God's redemptive plan. The account of Ornan and his sons illustrates how God can use seemingly minor characters and events to fulfill His purposes, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Temple, a central place of worship for the Israelites.