This passage is divided into three sections: David’s preparations (verses 2-5), his instructions to Solomon (verses 6-16), and his speech to Israel’s leaders (verses 17-19). The main theme focuses on the construction of the Temple. It also explains why David was unable to personally build it despite his great kingdom. The contrast between war and peace, represented by David and Solomon, highlights that shedding blood prevents building the Temple, and that it will be Solomon, “a man of peace,” who will carry it out.