Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 2:25
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
To sin means to miss the mark or go wrong, incurring guilt or penalty, and can also mean to repent or make amends. It is used in the Bible to describe wrongdoing and its consequences.
Definition: 1) to sin, miss, miss the way, go wrong, incur guilt, forfeit, purify from uncleanness 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to miss 1a2) to sin, miss the goal or path of right and duty 1a3) to incur guilt, incur penalty by sin, forfeit 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to bear loss 1b2) to make a sin-offering 1b3) to purify from sin 1b4) to purify from uncleanness 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to miss the mark 1c2) to induce to sin, cause to sin 1c3) to bring into guilt or condemnation or punishment 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to miss oneself, lose oneself, wander from the way 1d2) to purify oneself from uncleanness
Usage: Occurs in 220 OT verses. KJV: bear the blame, cleanse, commit (sin), by fault, harm he hath done, loss, miss, (make) offend(-er), offer for sin, purge, purify (self), make reconciliation, (cause, make) sin(-ful, -ness), trespass. See also: Genesis 20:6; 1 Kings 15:34; Psalms 4:5.
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
To pray or intercede, as seen in the Bible when people like Moses and David prayed to God for guidance and help, often using this Hebrew word to describe their actions.
Definition: 1) to intervene, interpose, pray 1a) (Piel) to mediate, judge 1b)(Hithpael) 1b1) to intercede 1b2) to pray
Usage: Occurs in 82 OT verses. KJV: intreat, judge(-ment), (make) pray(-er, -ing), make supplication. See also: Genesis 20:7; 2 Chronicles 6:34; Psalms 5:3.
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
To sin means to miss the mark or go wrong, incurring guilt or penalty, and can also mean to repent or make amends. It is used in the Bible to describe wrongdoing and its consequences.
Definition: 1) to sin, miss, miss the way, go wrong, incur guilt, forfeit, purify from uncleanness 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to miss 1a2) to sin, miss the goal or path of right and duty 1a3) to incur guilt, incur penalty by sin, forfeit 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to bear loss 1b2) to make a sin-offering 1b3) to purify from sin 1b4) to purify from uncleanness 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to miss the mark 1c2) to induce to sin, cause to sin 1c3) to bring into guilt or condemnation or punishment 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to miss oneself, lose oneself, wander from the way 1d2) to purify oneself from uncleanness
Usage: Occurs in 220 OT verses. KJV: bear the blame, cleanse, commit (sin), by fault, harm he hath done, loss, miss, (make) offend(-er), offer for sin, purge, purify (self), make reconciliation, (cause, make) sin(-ful, -ness), trespass. See also: Genesis 20:6; 1 Kings 15:34; Psalms 4:5.
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
This word is used to ask questions like who, whose, or whom. It can also be used to express a wish, like would that or whoever. It appears in many forms throughout the Bible, often in phrases like O that or what.
Definition: who?, whose?, whom?, would that, whoever, whosoever
Usage: Occurs in 342 OT verses. KJV: any (man), [idiom] he, [idiom] him, [phrase] O that! what, which, who(-m, -se, -soever), [phrase] would to God. See also: Genesis 3:11; 2 Samuel 15:4; Psalms 4:7.
To pray or intercede, as seen in the Bible when people like Moses and David prayed to God for guidance and help, often using this Hebrew word to describe their actions.
Definition: 1) to intervene, interpose, pray 1a) (Piel) to mediate, judge 1b)(Hithpael) 1b1) to intercede 1b2) to pray
Usage: Occurs in 82 OT verses. KJV: intreat, judge(-ment), (make) pray(-er, -ing), make supplication. See also: Genesis 20:7; 2 Chronicles 6:34; Psalms 5:3.
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
A voice or sound, it can refer to the sound of a person speaking, an animal, or a musical instrument. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's voice or the sound of praise and worship.
Definition: : sound/noise 1) voice, sound, noise 1a) voice 1b) sound (of instrument)
Usage: Occurs in 436 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, bleating, crackling, cry ([phrase] out), fame, lightness, lowing, noise, [phrase] hold peace, (pro-) claim, proclamation, [phrase] sing, sound, [phrase] spark, thunder(-ing), voice, [phrase] yell. See also: Genesis 3:8; Judges 5:11; Job 4:10.
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
This verb means to be pleased with something or someone. In the Bible, it describes God's delight in his people and their desire to follow him, like in Psalm 51.
Definition: 1) to delight in, take pleasure in, desire, be pleased with 1a) (Qal) 1a1) of men 1a1a) to take pleasure in, delight in 1a1b) to delight, desire, be pleased to do 1a2) of God 1a2a) to delight in, have pleasure in 1a2b) to be pleased to do
Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any at all, (have, take) delight, desire, favour, like, move, be (well) pleased, have pleasure, will, would. See also: Genesis 34:19; Psalms 51:21; Psalms 18:20.
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
Context — Eli’s Wicked Sons
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) |
| 1 |
1 Samuel 3:14 |
Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli, ‘The iniquity of Eli’s house shall never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’” |
| 2 |
Joshua 11:20 |
For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts to engage Israel in battle, so that they would be set apart for destruction and would receive no mercy, being annihilated as the LORD had commanded Moses. |
| 3 |
Hebrews 10:26 |
If we deliberately go on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins remains, |
| 4 |
Numbers 15:30 |
But the person who sins defiantly, whether a native or foreigner, blasphemes the LORD. That person shall be cut off from among his people. |
| 5 |
Proverbs 15:10 |
Discipline is harsh for him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die. |
| 6 |
1 Timothy 2:5 |
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, |
| 7 |
Hebrews 7:25 |
Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them. |
| 8 |
Psalms 51:4 |
Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You may be proved right when You speak and blameless when You judge. |
| 9 |
2 Chronicles 25:16 |
While he was still speaking, the king asked, “Have we made you the counselor to the king? Stop! Why be struck down?” So the prophet stopped, but he said, “I know that God has determined to destroy you, because you have done this and have not heeded my advice.” |
| 10 |
Deuteronomy 1:17 |
Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.” |
1 Samuel 2:25 Summary
This verse teaches us that sinning against another person is different from sinning against God. When we sin against someone else, we can ask for their forgiveness, and God can help us make things right. But when we sin against God, it's a more serious matter, and we need to turn to Him for forgiveness, as seen in Psalm 51:1-2. It's like when we hurt someone we love - we can say sorry and make amends, but when we disobey God, we need to repent and ask for His mercy, remembering that He is a loving and forgiving God, as shown in Exodus 34:6-7.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to sin against another man versus sinning against the Lord?
Sin against another man can be forgiven through intercession, but sinning against the Lord is a more serious offense, as seen in 1 Samuel 2:25, and is comparable to the unforgivable sin mentioned in Matthew 12:31-32, which emphasizes the gravity of sinning against God's Holy Spirit.
Can anyone intercede for someone who has sinned against the Lord?
According to 1 Samuel 2:25, if a man sins against the Lord, it implies that no one can intercede for him, highlighting the severity of such sin, though in other contexts, like Exodus 32:11-14, Moses intercedes for the people who sinned against God, showing that God can still be merciful and forgiving through prayer and repentance.
Why did the Lord intend to put Eli's sons to death?
The Lord intended to put Eli's sons to death because of their persistent disobedience and refusal to listen to their father's warnings, as stated in 1 Samuel 2:25, which reflects the principle found in Proverbs 29:1 that a person who refuses correction will be destroyed suddenly.
How does this verse relate to the concept of forgiveness and mercy in the Bible?
This verse highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and mercy from God, as seen in Psalm 51:1-2, where David asks for God's mercy and forgiveness after sinning against Him, demonstrating that even in cases where sin seems unforgivable, God's mercy and forgiveness are available to those who truly repent and turn to Him.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I have sinned against others, and how can I make amends and seek forgiveness?
- How have I sinned against the Lord, and what steps can I take to repent and seek His mercy and forgiveness?
- In what ways can I be more mindful of my actions and their impact on my relationship with God and others?
- What does this verse teach me about the importance of listening to godly counsel and correction in my life?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 2:25
If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him, c.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 2:25
If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:25
If one man sin against another, by doing any injury. The judge shall judge him; the magistrate shall by his sentence end the difference, and both parties shall acquiesce in his determination, and so the breach shall be made up. The sense is, if only man be wronged, man can right it, and reconcile the persons. If a man sin against the Lord, to wit, in such manner as you have done, directly and immediately, in the matters of his worship and service, wilfully and presumptuously. Who shall entreat for him? the offence is of so high a nature, that few or none will dare to intercede for him, but will leave him to the just judgment of God. He speaks after the manner of men, who do oft intercede with the prince for such as have injured any private person; but will not presume to do so when the injury is committed against his own person. The words are, and may be thus rendered, Who shall judge for him? Who shall interpose himself as umpire, or arbitrator, between God and him? Who shall compound that difference? None can or dare do it, and therefore he must be left to the dreadful, but righteous judgment of God; which is your case and misery.
Because the Lord would slay them, i.e. because God hath determined to destroy them for their many and great sins; and therefore would not and did not give them grace to hearken to Eli’ s counsel, and to repent of their wickedness, but hardened their hearts to their destruction.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:25
1 Samuel 2:25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.Ver. 25. If one man sin against another.] The magistrate or umpire may compose the difference in such a case, and piece them together again, if they be not implacable, and if their hearts be not bigger than their suits. But if a man sin against the Lord,] i.e., Directly in things concerning his service, and purposely to offend him. Saul killed the priests to be avenged on the Lord, who had set up David. Who shall intreat for him?] Who shall be his daysman? Quid ergo si iacerdos ipse peccet? &c. What then if the priest himself, whose office is to offer sacrifice, and to intercede for others, fall into foul offences, as Cyprian gravely argueth, since the means of atonement is thereby perverted and taken away? I read not in Scripture of a hypocrite’ s conversion; and what wonder? for whereas after sin, conversion is left as a means to cure all other sins, what means to recover him who hath converted conversion itself into sin? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father.] Who should therefore have thrust them out of the priesthood, as the father of Marcion, a godly bishop, expelled him from the Church for fornication.
Because the Lord would slay them.] God withdrew his grace from them, and gave them up to a hard heart that could not repent, that they might perish in their corruptions. This text then maketh nothing at all for the Novatians, who denied pardon to the penitent. These sinners against their own souls perished by their pertinacy, or rather obstinacy in wicked practices. Lib. i. epist. 3. Amb., lib. i. De Paenit., cap. 8.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:25
(25) Sin against the Lord.—This touches on the mystery of sin. There are transgressions which may again and again receive pardon, but there seems to be a transgression beyond the limits of Divine forgiveness. The pitiful Redeemer, in no obscure language, told His listeners the same awful truth when He warned them of the sin against the Holy Ghost. They hearkened not . . . because the Lord would slay them.—Here the mysteries connected with God’s foreknowledge and man’s free-will are touched upon. The Lord’s resolution to slay them was founded on the eternal foreknowledge of their persistence in wrong-doing. There seems to be a period in the sinner’s life when the Spirit of the Eternal ceases to plead; then the man is left to himself, and he feels no longer any remorse for evil done; this is spoken of in Exodus 4:21 as “hardening the heart.” This period in the life of Hophni and Phinehas apparently had been reached when the Lord resolved to slay them.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:25
Verse 25. If one man sin against another] All differences between man and man may be settled by the proper judge; but if a man sin against the Supreme Judge, God himself, who shall reconcile him to his Maker? Your sin is immediately against God himself, and is the highest insult that can be offered, because it is in the matter of his own worship, therefore ye may expect his heaviest judgments. But if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him?] This was a question of the most solemn importance under the old covenant, especially after the death of Moses, the mediator. The law had determined what sins should be punished with death; and it was supposed that there was not any appeal from the decision there pronounced. 1 John 2:1 is an answer to this question; but it is an answer which the Gospel alone can give: My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not; but if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. Because the Lord would slay them.] The particle כי ki, which we translate because, and thus make their continuance in sin the effect of God's determination to destroy them, should be translated therefore, as it means in many parts of the sacred writings. See Noldius's Particles, where the very text in question is introduced: Sed non auscultarunt, c., IDEO voluit Jehova eos interficere "But they would not hearken, c. THEREFORE God purposed to destroy them." It was their not hearkening that induced the Lord to will their destruction.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 2:25
25. If one man &c.] Better, If a man sin against a man, then Elohim shall judge him:but if a man sin against Jehovah, who shall intercede for him?For man’s offences against his fellow-man, there is a third superior party to arbitrate and rectify the wrongs, namely God, or God’s representative, the duly appointed judge: but for man’s offences against Jehovah, there is no third superior party to intercede as a mediator. This is most likely an ancient proverb, quoted by Eli to impress his sons with a sense of the enormity of their sins, which were committed against Jehovah. The point is obscured by the impossibility of translating the paronomasia of the Hebrew which expresses “judge” and “intercede” by different voices of the same verb. the judge] Heb. Elôhîm, i.e. God. Judges, as the representatives of God in executing justice on earth (Deuteronomy 1:17), are sometimes styled gods (Exodus 21:6; Exodus 22:8-9; Psalms 82:1; Psalms 82:6), but it seems best not to limit the present passage to human judgments. because the Lord would slay them] Literally, was pleased to slay them. Compare the language of Exo 4:21, and Joshua 11:20, where we read that the Lord hardened the hearts of Pharaoh and the Canaanites; and 1 Samuel 16:14, where it is said that “an evil spirit from the Lord troubled Saul.” Yet we are assured that “the Lord delighteth in mercy” (Micah 7:18), and “hath no pleasure in the death of him that dieth” (Ezekiel 18:32). This coexistence of mercy and judgment in the divine will (Exodus 34:6-7) is a mystery which necessarily transcends our comprehension. But it must be carefully noted that it is not till Pharaoh has turned a deaf ear to repeated warnings, not till the Canaanites have polluted themselves with intolerable abominations, that God hardens their hearts; not till Eli’s sons have ignored His existence and defied His laws docs He determine to slay them: not till Saul has set at naught his calling and deserted God, is he deserted by Him.
Obstinate impenitence may be judicially punished by the withdrawal of the grace which leads to repentance.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 2:25
The sense seems to be, If one man sin against another, the judge shall amerce him in the due penalty, and then he shall be free; but if he sin against the Lord, who shall act the part of judge and arbiter for him?
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:25
25. If one man sin against another — Better and literally, if man sins against man. The judge shall judge him — Hebrew, God will judge him; that is, by the properly constituted authorities, the priests, Levites, and judges.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 2:25
| Sermon | Description |
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(Hebrews - Part 30): Sin Willfully - No More Sacrifice
by A.W. Tozer
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In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of feeling down and encountering the Salvation Army on the street corner. The Salvation Army's song, "I need no other sacr |
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A Deadly Choice
by Chuck Smith
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This sermon emphasizes the importance of making the right choice regarding Jesus Christ, highlighting the biblical theme of choosing between life and death. It explores the consequ |
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(Poland) Jesus Loves Sinners
by David Wilkerson
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In this sermon, the preacher shares powerful testimonies of individuals who were living on the streets and trapped in addiction. Through the love of Jesus Christ, they experienced |
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Jehovah Raphi-the Lord That Heals
by David Wilkerson
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In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that there is something of God that will not let go of us. He speaks of God's love, mercy, and compassion, and how He sends His servants to |
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A Fearful Thing
by Bill McLeod
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In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of denying and disobeying God. He references the story of Adam and Eve and how their actions set the stage for the fallen na |
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Learning to Hope
by Francis Chan
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In this sermon, Francis Chan shares a personal experience of stepping out in faith and seeing God come through. He recounts a powerful encounter with a man who had been transformed |
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(Fury of Fire) 02 - a Fury of Fire & the Vengeance of God
by Milton Green
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In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following the Word of God rather than the traditions of men. He encourages the listeners to examine their beliefs and teac |