1 Samuel 2:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 2:29
29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people?
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 2 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, judgment, obedience. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 2:29
29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people?
Analysis
The indictment reaches its core accusation: 'honourest thy sons above me.' Eli's failure was not ignorance but misplaced loyalty. He valued his sons' comfort over God's honor. The verb 'kick' (ba'at) pictures stubborn resistance, like an animal refusing the yoke. The phrase 'to make yourselves fat' indicts both father and sons - Eli shared in the benefits of their corruption. His passive tolerance constituted active participation. The question 'Wherefore?' demands accounting. No acceptable answer exists for prioritizing human relationships over divine commands.
Historical Context
The Hebrew behind 'kick at my sacrifice' suggests disdainful, contemptuous rejection - treating sacred things as worthless. Eli's 'fattening' from corrupt offerings made him complicit in his sons' crimes. Leadership passivity in the face of corruption becomes active evil.
Reflection
- In what areas might you be honoring human relationships above God's clear commands?
- How does passive tolerance of wrongdoing become active participation?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2077 - Sacrifice, offering
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 32:15, Matthew 10:37, Luke 14:26