1 Samuel 2:23

"Why are you doing these things?" Eli said to his sons. "I hear about your wicked deeds from all these people.

Study Bible

So he said to them
This phrase introduces Eli's direct confrontation with his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the Old Testament to denote not just speaking, but a declaration or proclamation. Eli, as the high priest, holds a position of authority and responsibility, and his words carry weight. This moment is significant as it reflects Eli's attempt to address the moral and spiritual decay within his own family, which is a microcosm of the larger spiritual decline in Israel at the time.

Why are you doing these things?
Eli's question is rhetorical, expressing his dismay and disappointment. The Hebrew word for "why" is "לָמָּה" (lammah), which can also imply a sense of urgency or desperation. Eli is not merely seeking information; he is expressing a deep concern for the actions of his sons, which are contrary to the covenantal laws and the duties of the priesthood. This question highlights the moral accountability expected of those in spiritual leadership.

I hear about your wicked deeds
The phrase "wicked deeds" is translated from the Hebrew "מַעֲשֵׂיכֶם הָרָעִים" (ma'aseikhem hara'im), which denotes actions that are evil or morally wrong. The use of "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) indicates that Eli is receiving reports from the community, underscoring the public nature of his sons' transgressions. This public knowledge of their sins brings shame not only to Eli's family but also to the priesthood and the nation of Israel, which is called to be holy and set apart.

from all these people
The phrase "all these people" refers to the Israelites who are witnessing the corruption of the priesthood. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עָם" (am), which often denotes a collective group bound by covenant with God. The widespread knowledge of Hophni and Phinehas's actions suggests a breakdown in the spiritual leadership of Israel, as the priests were meant to be mediators between God and His people. This situation foreshadows the need for righteous leadership, which will later be fulfilled in the rise of Samuel and ultimately in the kingship of David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eli
The high priest of Israel at the time, Eli is a central figure in this passage. He is addressing his sons, who are committing sins against the Lord and the people of Israel.

2. Eli's Sons (Hophni and Phinehas)
They are priests who are abusing their positions by committing immoral acts and exploiting the offerings of the people.

3. Shiloh
The location where the tabernacle was set up and where Eli and his sons served as priests.

4. The Israelites
The people of Israel who are bringing their concerns and complaints about Eli's sons to him.

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during this time, where the priests were supposed to serve faithfully.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Eli's failure to correct his sons shows the critical role of leaders in maintaining spiritual integrity. Leaders must hold themselves and others accountable to God's standards.

Parental Responsibility
Eli's situation underscores the importance of parental guidance and discipline. Parents are called to instruct their children in righteousness and correct them when they go astray.

Consequences of Sin
The passage serves as a reminder that sin has consequences, not only for the individual but also for those around them. Eli's sons' actions brought dishonor to the priesthood and affected the entire community.

Listening to Godly Counsel
Eli heard the reports from the people about his sons' behavior. This highlights the importance of listening to and acting upon godly counsel and warnings.

Repentance and Correction
The need for repentance and correction is evident. When confronted with sin, there should be a genuine turning away from wrongdoing and a return to God's ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Eli's response to his sons' behavior reflect his leadership, and what can we learn from it about godly leadership today?

2. In what ways can parents today ensure they are raising their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, as opposed to Eli's example?

3. How do the actions of Eli's sons affect the community of Israel, and what does this teach us about the communal impact of personal sin?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are receptive to godly counsel and warnings in our own lives?

5. How can we apply the principles of repentance and correction in our daily walk with God, especially when confronted with our own shortcomings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 2:12-17
Provides context for the wicked actions of Eli's sons, detailing their contempt for the Lord's offerings.

1 Samuel 3:11-14
God’s judgment against Eli’s house is pronounced due to the sins of his sons and Eli’s failure to restrain them.

Proverbs 22:6
Highlights the importance of training a child in the way they should go, contrasting Eli's failure to discipline his sons.

Hebrews 12:5-11
Discusses the importance of discipline and how God disciplines those He loves, which Eli failed to do with his sons.