“If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the Lord would slay them.”
This verse is part of the larger context of the story of Eli and his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Eli was a priest and the judge of Israel at that time. Unfortunately, his sons were corrupt and they abused their priestly positions by taking advantage of the offerings brought to the tabernacle and committing other sins.
“If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him”: This part highlights the role of the judge:in settling disputes and administering justice among the people of Israel. When someone commits an offense against another person, it is the judge’s responsibility:to hear the case and deliver a judgment.
“But if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him?”: This statement emphasizes the seriousness of sinning against the Lord. It poses a rhetorical question, suggesting that no one can intercede or mediate on behalf of a person who sins against God. It underscores the understanding that sins committed directly against God carry significant consequences.
“Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the Lord would slay them”: In this portion, it refers to Hophni and Phinehas, Eli’s sons, who were disregarding the admonitions of their father regarding their sinful actions. The verse states that the reason they did not listen to their father was because the Lord:had determined to bring judgment upon them, even to the point of slaying them.
This verse highlights the importance of both human and divine justice. It distinguishes between sins committed against other individuals, which can be addressed through human judgment, and sins committed against God, which require God’s intervention for forgiveness and reconciliation. It also serves as a warning about the severity of sinning against the Lord:Hophni and Phinehas’ actions were not only a violation of their priestly duties but also a direct affront to God Himself. Their lack of repentance and disregard for their father’s warnings led to severe consequences.
Overall, 1 Samuel 2:25:reminds us of the importance of living in obedience to God, respecting human authority, and acknowledging the gravity of sinning against the Lord:
