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1 Kings 12:8

But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him:

1 Kings 12:8 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, King Rehoboam of Judah is faced with a critical decision-making moment. He is torn between following the advice of the older, more experienced counselors or seeking the counsel of his peers, the young men who grew up with him. The verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom from those who have more life experience and knowledge. The old men likely had a wealth of wisdom to offer based on their years of service to the kingdom, while the young men may have been more influenced by their own ambition and desires. By choosing to reject the counsel of the old men and instead listen to his peers, King Rehoboam illustrates the consequences of pride and arrogance in decision-making. This verse serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of disregarding the advice of those who have gone before us, and the importance of humility and respect for the wisdom of our elders.

Theological Overview

This verse from the Old Testament book of 1 Kings highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel and the consequences of ignoring it. In this passage, King Rehoboam rejects the advice of the older, more experienced advisors in favor of consulting with his peers - the young men who grew up with him. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the wisdom that comes with age and experience, as the old men represent the traditional, time-tested wisdom that should guide the king's decisions. By disregarding this counsel in favor of the impulsive advice of his peers, Rehoboam ultimately makes a grave mistake that leads to division and strife within his kingdom. This serves as a cautionary tale for readers, urging them to seek counsel from those with wisdom and experience rather than relying solely on their own judgment or the opinions of their peers. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the importance of humility and discernment when seeking guidance in making important decisions.

1 Kings 12:8 in other translations

American Standard Version

But he forsook the counsel of the old men which they had given him, and took counsel with the young men that were grown up with him, that stood before him.

World English Bible

But he abandoned the counsel of the old men which they had given him, and took counsel with the young men who had grown up with him, who stood before him.

Douay-Rheims

But he left the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that had been brought up with him, and stood before him.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But he forsooke the counsell that the olde men had giuen him, and asked counsell of the yong men that had bene brought vp with him, and waited on him.