And the young men that were grown up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou speak unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father’s loins.
The young men who had grown up with him spoke to him, saying, 'This is what you should tell the people who asked you to make their burden lighter than your father did: Tell them, My little finger is thicker than my father's waist.'
The young advisors are telling King Rehoboam to respond with arrogance, essentially saying he will be even harsher than his father Solomon.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs after Solomon's death when his son Rehoboam becomes king and the people ask him to reduce the heavy taxes and forced labor his father had imposed. Rehoboam is seeking advice on how to respond to their request. The 'young men' were his childhood friends who had grown up in the palace with him, while he also had older, wiser counselors available.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.