1 samuel 2:28 - Didn’t I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to go up to my altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? Didn’t I give to the house of your father all the offerings of the children of Israel made by fire?
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What does "1 samuel 2:28" mean?
This verse, 1 Samuel 2:28, is part of a rebuke delivered to Eli, the high priest, through a "man of God" (a prophet). It's a reminder of God's favor and provision towards Eli's priestly lineage, and a stark contrast to the current state of corruption and disrespect within his family. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Didn’t I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest..." This emphasizes God's initial grace and selection of the tribe of Levi (specifically the lineage of Aaron, Eli's ancestor) for the priestly office. God didn't pick just anyone; He specifically chose this family to serve Him.
"...to go up to my altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me?" This describes the key responsibilities and privileges of the priesthood:
"Go up to my altar": Priests were authorized to approach the altar, a sacred place representing God's presence, to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings.
"Burn incense": Incense was a symbolic offering, representing prayers ascending to God. It was a delicate and honored duty.
"Wear an ephod before me": The ephod was a special priestly garment, part of the high priest's attire, signifying his role as an intermediary between God and the people. Wearing it "before me" means performing the priestly duties in God's presence and according to His commands.
"Didn’t I give to the house of your father all the offerings of the children of Israel made by fire?" This highlights the provision God made for the priests. A portion of the sacrifices brought by the people was designated as food and sustenance for the priests and their families. The "offerings of the children of Israel made by fire" refers to various types of sacrifices that were at least partially consumed by fire on the altar. God provided for the priests through these offerings, ensuring they could focus on their sacred duties without having to worry about their basic needs.
In summary, the verse is a powerful reminder of:
God's unmerited favor: God chose and blessed Eli's lineage with a unique and sacred calling.
The importance of the priestly office: The responsibilities of the priest were crucial in mediating between God and the people, involving sacrifice, prayer, and representing God's holiness.
God's provision: God took care of the priests' needs through the offerings of the people, allowing them to focus on their duties.
The context is crucial because this verse is part of a reproach. God is essentially saying, "I have blessed you and your family immensely, giving you great responsibility and provision. Yet, you have abused your position and dishonored me." This sets the stage for the judgment that will follow, as Eli's sons were corrupt, and Eli did little to stop them. The verse highlights the contrast between God's faithfulness and the priests' unfaithfulness.
1 samuel 2:28 - Didn’t I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to go up to my altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? Didn’t I give to the house of your father all the offerings of the children of Israel made by fire?
What does "1 samuel 2:28" mean?
This verse, 1 Samuel 2:28, is part of a rebuke delivered to Eli, the high priest, through a "man of God" (a prophet). It's a reminder of God's favor and provision towards Eli's priestly lineage, and a stark contrast to the current state of corruption and disrespect within his family. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Didn’t I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest..." This emphasizes God's initial grace and selection of the tribe of Levi (specifically the lineage of Aaron, Eli's ancestor) for the priestly office. God didn't pick just anyone; He specifically chose this family to serve Him.
"...to go up to my altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me?" This describes the key responsibilities and privileges of the priesthood:
"Go up to my altar": Priests were authorized to approach the altar, a sacred place representing God's presence, to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings.
"Burn incense": Incense was a symbolic offering, representing prayers ascending to God. It was a delicate and honored duty.
"Wear an ephod before me": The ephod was a special priestly garment, part of the high priest's attire, signifying his role as an intermediary between God and the people. Wearing it "before me" means performing the priestly duties in God's presence and according to His commands.
"Didn’t I give to the house of your father all the offerings of the children of Israel made by fire?" This highlights the provision God made for the priests. A portion of the sacrifices brought by the people was designated as food and sustenance for the priests and their families. The "offerings of the children of Israel made by fire" refers to various types of sacrifices that were at least partially consumed by fire on the altar. God provided for the priests through these offerings, ensuring they could focus on their sacred duties without having to worry about their basic needs.
In summary, the verse is a powerful reminder of:
God's unmerited favor: God chose and blessed Eli's lineage with a unique and sacred calling.
The importance of the priestly office: The responsibilities of the priest were crucial in mediating between God and the people, involving sacrifice, prayer, and representing God's holiness.
God's provision: God took care of the priests' needs through the offerings of the people, allowing them to focus on their duties.
The context is crucial because this verse is part of a reproach. God is essentially saying, "I have blessed you and your family immensely, giving you great responsibility and provision. Yet, you have abused your position and dishonored me." This sets the stage for the judgment that will follow, as Eli's sons were corrupt, and Eli did little to stop them. The verse highlights the contrast between God's faithfulness and the priests' unfaithfulness.