1 kings 12:9 - He said to them, “What counsel do you give, that we may answer these people, who have spoken to me, saying, ‘Make the yoke that your father put on us lighter?’”

Generated Verse: 1 kings 12:9

What does "1 kings 12:9" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, taking over as king. Let's break down what it means:

Context: Rehoboam is faced with a delegation of Israelites who are unhappy with the heavy burden placed upon them by his father, Solomon. Solomon was known for his grand building projects and lavish court, which required significant taxes and forced labor from the people.

"He said to them, 'What counsel do you give...'": Rehoboam is asking for advice from the older advisors (who served his father, Solomon). He's seeking their wisdom on how to respond to the people's plea. This shows that he recognized he needed guidance and wasn't immediately sure how to handle the situation.

"...that we may answer these people...": This highlights the importance of the response. Rehoboam understands that his answer will significantly impact his relationship with the people and, potentially, the future of the kingdom.

"...who have spoken to me, saying, 'Make the yoke that your father put on us lighter?'": This is the core of the issue. The people are asking for relief from the heavy burden of taxation and labor they endured under Solomon's reign. The "yoke" is a metaphor for oppressive and burdensome rule. They want Rehoboam to ease their suffering.

In simpler terms, the verse means:

Rehoboam is asking his advisors for advice on how to respond to the people who are requesting him to lighten the heavy taxes and labor they were forced to endure under his father, Solomon. He's trying to figure out how to answer them in a way that will be acceptable to both the people and his own desire to maintain power.

Significance:

This verse is crucial because it sets the stage for Rehoboam's disastrous decision. The older advisors will counsel him to be lenient, while younger, less experienced advisors will urge him to be even harsher than his father. Rehoboam chooses the latter, leading to a revolt and the division of the kingdom.

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