And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.
And they spoke to him, saying, 'If you will be a servant to this people today, and serve them, and listen to them, and speak kindly to them, then they will be your servants forever.'
The wise elders are telling the young king that true leadership comes through serving others first - if you serve your people well, they will gladly serve you in return.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical narrative, King Solomon had just died, and his son Rehoboam was preparing to take the throne of Israel. The people were weary from the heavy taxes and forced labor imposed during Solomon's reign and requested relief from these burdens. The elders, drawing from their experience, advised Rehoboam to show humility and serve the people if he wanted their lasting loyalty.
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