1 Samuel 2:29

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

فَلِمَاذَا تَسْتَهِينُونَ بِعَطَايَايَ وَذَبَائحِي الَّتِي أمَرْتُ بِهَا؟ أنْتَ تُكرِمُ وَلَدَيكَ أكْثَرَ مِمَّا تُكرِمُنِي. وَهَا أنْتُمْ تُخَصِّصُونَ لِأنفُسِكُمْ أفْضَلَ أجزَاءِ الذَّبَائِحِ الَّتِي يَأْتِي بِهَا بَنُو إسْرَائِيلَ إلَيَّ، وَتَسْمَنُونَ.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is addressing Eli, the high priest, and his sons. He is upset because they are not respecting His sacrifices and offerings and are using their positions for personal gain instead of serving God.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a piggy bank where you save your allowance for something important. But your friend comes and takes your money to buy candy for himself. That's kind of what God is upset about here. He had set aside special offerings for Himself, but Eli’s sons were taking them for themselves instead of using them the way God wanted.

Historical Background

This verse is from the Book of Samuel, which was likely written by the prophet Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. It is set during the time of the early Israelite monarchy, where Eli, a high priest, and his sons were misusing their positions of power and influence.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, imagine if a church leader was using church funds for a lavish lifestyle instead of for ministry and community support. This verse reminds us to use our positions and resources responsibly, not for personal gain but for the greater good.

Topics

• obedience
• leadership
• responsible stewardship
• priesthood
• God's judgment
• honesty

Related Verses

• Malachi 1:6-14
• 1 Samuel 3:13
• 1 Kings 14:22-24
• Luke 12:42-48
• 1 Timothy 5:17-22

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is God angry with Eli's sons?

God is angry because Eli’s sons are misusing their priestly positions for personal gain, rather than serving God and the people as they should.

What does 'kicking at my sacrifice' mean?

It means to show disrespect or contempt towards God's offerings. It's like stepping on something valuable to show disdain.

How can leaders avoid misusing their positions?

Leaders can avoid misusing their positions by being transparent, accountable, and prioritizing service to others and God over personal gain.

What can we learn about offerings from this verse?

This verse teaches that offerings are meant to honor God and serve His purposes, not to be taken for personal benefit.