1 samuel 2:16 - If the man said to him, “Let the fat be burned first, and then take as much as your soul desires”; then he would say, “No, but you shall give it to me now; and if not, I will take it by force.”

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 2:16

What does "1 samuel 2:16" mean?


This verse describes the corrupt practices of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were priests at the sanctuary of Shiloh. It highlights their disrespect for the prescribed rituals and their selfish abuse of their position. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

Context: The Israelite law in Leviticus prescribed that when offering a sacrifice, the fat was to be burned first as an offering to God. This was a sacred duty, acknowledging God's provision and ownership. The priests were then allowed to take a portion of the cooked meat for themselves.

"If the man said to him, “Let the fat be burned first, and then take as much as your soul desires”: This describes a worshiper trying to follow the law and offering a proper sacrifice. They are acknowledging the importance of burning the fat for God before the priest takes their share.

"then he would say, “No, but you shall give it to me now; and if not, I will take it by force.”: This is the corrupt action of Eli's sons. They demand the meat before the fat is burned, showing blatant disregard for God's law and the proper order of worship. They are putting their own desires ahead of God's. The threat of "taking it by force" demonstrates their arrogance and abuse of power.

In essence, the verse illustrates:

Disrespect for God: Eli's sons are not honoring God's prescribed rituals. They are prioritizing their own appetites and desires over obeying God's commands.
Corruption and Greed: They are using their position as priests to exploit the worshipers and take more than what they are rightfully entitled to.
Abuse of Power: They are using threats and force to intimidate the worshipers into complying with their demands.
Moral Decay: This behavior is a sign of the moral and spiritual decline within the priesthood and the nation of Israel. It foreshadows the judgment that will come upon Eli's house because of their wickedness.

This verse is a key example of the sinfulness of Eli's sons and a major reason for the disasters that befall Eli and his family later in the book of Samuel. It serves as a warning against religious corruption and the importance of respecting God's commands.