KJV ORIGINAL
And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
And they said to him, 'If you are kind to these people, make them happy, and speak encouraging words to them, they will serve you faithfully forever.'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The advisors are telling the new king that treating people with kindness and respect will earn their lasting loyalty and service.
📚 Historical Context
This advice was given to Rehoboam, Solomon's son, when he became king after his father's death. The people had come asking for relief from the heavy taxes and forced labor that Solomon had imposed. Rehoboam was consulting with his father's older, experienced advisors about how to respond to the people's request.
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