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.
If one person wrongs another person, a judge can settle the matter between them. But if someone sins against the LORD, who can speak up for them? Even so, Eli's sons wouldn't listen to their father's warning, because the LORD had decided to put them to death.
This verse shows that while human disputes can be resolved by judges, sins against God are far more serious—and tragically, Eli's sons refused to listen to correction when there was still time.
📚 Historical Context
This comes from the story of Eli the priest, whose sons Hophni and Phinehas were corrupt priests who dishonored God through their greed and immorality at the tabernacle. Eli had confronted them about their behavior, but they refused to change. God had already decided their judgment because of their persistent rebellion against Him.
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