1 Samuel 12:3
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
وَهَا أنَا الآنَ أمَامَكُمْ، فَإنْ أسَأتُ يَومًا، فَاشْهَدُوا الآنَ عَلَى إسَاءَتِي فِي حَضْرَةِ اللهِ وَمَلِكِهِ المَمْسُوحِ. هَلْ أخَذْتُ مِنْكُمْ بَقَرَةً أوْ حِمَارًا؟ هَلْ آذَيتُ أحَدًا أوْ خَدَعْتُهُ أوْ ظَلَمْتُهُ؟ هَلْ قَبِلتُ يَومًا رِشْوَةً مِنْ مَالٍ لِكَي أتَغَاضَى عَنْ إسَاءَةٍ لَهُ؟ إنْ كُنْتُ قَدْ فَعَلْتُ أيًّا مِنْ هَذِهِ الأُمُورِ، فَإنِّي مُسْتَعِدٌّ لِتَصْوِيبِ الأُمُورِ الآنَ.»
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Samuel, a judge and prophet, is addressing the Israelites. He is asking them to recall any wrong he may have done, like taking someone's property or accepting bribes. Samuel is transparent and honest, offering to make things right if he has wronged anyone.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game with your friends, and you say, 'Hey, did I cheat in any way? Did I take your toys or not share? If I did, I'll fix it.' That's what Samuel is doing here. He's asking if he did anything bad and promising to make it right.
Historical Background
1 Samuel was written by Samuel, Nathan, and Gad, possibly with later additions. This text is part of the historical books of the Old Testament, written around 900-700 BCE. Samuel is addressing the Israelites, who are about to choose a king, and he is ensuring transparency and integrity as he steps down from his role.
Living It Out Today
Consider a situation where you're leaving a leadership position at work. You could, like Samuel, ask your team if you've ever taken credit for their work or accepted favors that influenced your decisions, and offer to rectify any mistakes.
Topics
integritytransparencyleadershipaccountabilityhonestyjudgment
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Samuel ask for witnesses?
Samuel asks for witnesses to demonstrate his commitment to integrity and to establish a transparent record as he transitions out of his leadership role.
What does this verse teach about leadership?
This verse teaches that leaders should be accountable and transparent, and should take responsibility for their actions, ensuring they serve with honesty and integrity.
How can I apply this principle in my daily life?
You can apply this principle by being honest in your interactions and by being open to feedback, ensuring that you do not take advantage of others and rectify any wrongs you might have done.
Is there a similar verse in the New Testament?
Yes, Luke 12:48 speaks about accountability, stating that greater responsibility comes with greater leadership, emphasizing the importance of being honest and transparent.