1 Samuel 2:23-25
2:25 a God (or the judges; Hebrew ’elohim): The Hebrew verb translated mediate is plural here, and when ’elohim means “God,” it often appears with a singular verb. In addition, some ancient translations render ’elohim as “judges” here. If that is the correct translation, then the judges would mediate for the guilty party in a common human court. However, many Hebrew scholars believe that ’elohim should never be translated “judges.” If this is the case, in what sense could God mediate for the guilty party? Possibly Eli considered the court verdict to come directly from God. God might work through his revealed law or other circumstances to either acquit or convict an individual charged with wrongdoing. Or Eli might have been referring to the sacrificial system.• The sexual immorality (2:22 b) and gluttony (2:12-17 c) of Eli’s sons were sins against the Lord because they were corrupting Israel’s worship of him. No one can intercede for sinners who rebel so completely against God’s will (cp. Matt 12:31 d).
• Eli’s sons did not listen to their father because the Lord had already begun to punish them by hardening their hearts (cp. Exod 4:21 e; 7:3 f; 8:15-32 g; 10:27 h; 11:10 i).
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