This verse from 1 Esdras 4:11 is part of a speech given by the third young man in the contest before King Darius. The contest is to determine what is the strongest thing: wine, the king, women, or truth. This young man argues that women are the strongest.
Here's a breakdown of what the verse means in that context:
"and these keep watch round about him..." - The "these" refers to the king's guards or attendants, the people surrounding him.
"...neither may any one depart, and do his own business..." - These guards are completely devoted to the king. They cannot leave their post to attend to personal matters or errands. Their duty is solely to the king.
"...neither disobey they him in anything." - Absolute obedience to the king is expected. They must follow his commands without question.
In Summary:
The verse emphasizes the power and authority of the king, demonstrating that his servants, even the guards, are totally under his control. They must be constantly vigilant, always present, and completely obedient. They cannot deviate from their duties or go against the king's will.
The Argument for Women:
The young man uses this description of the king's power to then argue that women have even greater power. He suggests that even though the king has such control over his guards, he himself is often swayed by women, like his wife. Therefore, women are stronger than the king.
It's important to consider the historical and cultural context of the text. Absolute obedience to a ruler was a common theme in ancient societies. The story and the speech are designed to be persuasive and perhaps a bit provocative.
This verse from 1 Esdras 4:11 is part of a speech given by the third young man in the contest before King Darius. The contest is to determine what is the strongest thing: wine, the king, women, or truth. This young man argues that women are the strongest.
Here's a breakdown of what the verse means in that context:
"and these keep watch round about him..." - The "these" refers to the king's guards or attendants, the people surrounding him.
"...neither may any one depart, and do his own business..." - These guards are completely devoted to the king. They cannot leave their post to attend to personal matters or errands. Their duty is solely to the king.
"...neither disobey they him in anything." - Absolute obedience to the king is expected. They must follow his commands without question.
In Summary:
The verse emphasizes the power and authority of the king, demonstrating that his servants, even the guards, are totally under his control. They must be constantly vigilant, always present, and completely obedient. They cannot deviate from their duties or go against the king's will.
The Argument for Women:
The young man uses this description of the king's power to then argue that women have even greater power. He suggests that even though the king has such control over his guards, he himself is often swayed by women, like his wife. Therefore, women are stronger than the king.
It's important to consider the historical and cultural context of the text. Absolute obedience to a ruler was a common theme in ancient societies. The story and the speech are designed to be persuasive and perhaps a bit provocative.
