And the young men that were brought up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou answer the people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it somewhat lighter for 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 and said, 'Here's how you should answer the people who said to you, "Your father made our burden heavy, but you should make it lighter for us." Tell them this: "My little finger is thicker than my father's waist."'
The writer is showing how Rehoboam's young advisors gave him terrible advice to boast about being even harsher than his father Solomon had been.
📚 Historical Context
This takes place after Solomon's death when his son Rehoboam became king. The people of Israel had come asking for relief from the heavy taxes and forced labor that Solomon had imposed. Rehoboam consulted both older, experienced advisors (who counseled gentleness) and his young friends who had grown up in the palace with him.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.