1 Kings 11:33
Because that they have forsaken me, and have worshipped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, Chemosh the god of the Moabites, and Milcom the god of the children of Ammon, and have not walked in my ways, to do that which is right in mine eyes, and to keep my statutes and my judgments, as did David his father.
1 Kings 11:33 · King James Version
Meaning
During this period in Israel's history, many people had turned away from worshipping the one true God and instead began to follow other gods such as Ashtoreth, Chemosh, and Milcom. These deities were worshipped by the Zidonians, Moabites, and Ammonites respectively. The verse highlights that the people had forsaken God and his ways, choosing to follow false idols instead. By mentioning David, the verse emphasizes that they had strayed from the example set by their forefather who followed God's commands faithfully. The verse serves as a warning against the consequences of turning away from God and failing to walk in his ways. It serves as a reminder to always strive to do what is right in the eyes of God, keeping his statutes and judgments as a way of showing reverence and obedience to Him.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet is delivering a message from God to the people of Judah, highlighting their spiritual rebellion and idolatry. The theological interpretation of this passage reveals the displeasure of God towards the Israelites for turning away from Him and worshiping false gods such as Ashtoreth, Chemosh, and Milcom. These idols were popular among the neighboring nations, indicating the influence of foreign cultures on the Israelites. By forsaking God and His ways, the people of Judah were not only breaking the first commandment but also failing to follow the righteous example of King David. The mention of David, known for his devotion to God and obedience to His commandments, serves as a contrast to the sinful behavior of the current generation. This verse underscores the importance of remaining faithful to God and walking in His ways, by upholding His statutes and judgments, as exemplified by David.
1 Kings 11:33 in other translations
American Standard Version
because that they have forsaken me, and have worshipped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of Moab, and Milcom the god of the children of Ammon; and they have not walked in my ways, to do that which is right in mine eyes, and [to keep] my statutes and mine ordinances, as did David his father.
World English Bible
because that they have forsaken me, and have worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the god of Moab, and Milcom the god of the children of Ammon. They have not walked in my ways, to do that which is right in my eyes, and to keep my statutes and my ordinances, as David his father did.
Douay-Rheims
Because he hath forsaken me, and hath adored Astarthe, the goddess of the Sidonians, and Chamos, the god of Moab, and Moloch, the god of the children of Ammon: and hath not walked in my ways, to do justice before me, and to keep my precepts, and judgments, as did David, his father.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Because they haue forsaken me, and haue worshipped Ashtaroth the god of the Zidonians, and Chemosh the god of the Moabites, and Milcom the god of the Ammonites, and haue not walked in my wayes (to do right in mine eyes, and my statutes, and my lawes) as did Dauid his father.