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1 Samuel 2:33

And the man of thine, whom I shall not cut off from mine altar, shall be to consume thine eyes, and to grieve thine heart: and all the increase of thine house shall die in the flower of their age.

1 Samuel 2:33 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of 1 Samuel is part of a prophecy given to Eli, a priest at the time. In this verse, Samuel relays a message from God to Eli, warning him of the consequences of his sons' actions. The phrase "And the man of thine, whom I shall not cut off from mine altar" refers to a male descendant of Eli who will continue to serve at the altar, despite the judgment that will fall upon Eli's house. The verse goes on to describe the fate of this descendant, stating that he will bring sorrow and grief to Eli by witnessing the downfall of his family. The mention of "all the increase of thine house shall die in the flower of their age" indicates that Eli's descendants would not live to see old age, but rather perish prematurely. This verse serves as a warning of the severe consequences that can result from disobedience and sin, even for those who may continue to outwardly serve God.

Theological Overview

This verse from 1 Samuel 2:33 contains a vivid and striking image of punishment and destruction. The phrase "consume thine eyes, and to grieve thine heart" suggests a deep emotional and psychological torment that will be inflicted on the person who is spared from being cut off from the altar of the Lord. The imagery of consuming eyes and grieving hearts serves to emphasize the severity of the consequences of disobedience and sin. The mention of "all the increase of thine house shall die in the flower of their age" further underscores the idea of a complete and devastating judgment that will befall the wrongdoer and their descendants. This verse highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, and serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from Him. It reveals the righteous judgment of God against those who persist in their disobedience and rebellion.

1 Samuel 2:33 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the man of thine, [whom] I shall not cut off from mine altar, [shall be] to consume thine eyes, and to grieve thy heart; and all the increase of thy house shall die in the flower of their age.

World English Bible

The man of yours, whom I shall not cut off from my altar, shall consume your eyes, and grieve your heart; and all the increase of your house shall die in the flower of their age.

Douay-Rheims

However, I will not altogether take away a man of thee from my altar: but that thy eyes may faint, and thy soul be spent: and a great part of thy house shall die, when they come to man's estate.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Neuerthelesse, I will not destroy euery one of thine from mine altar, to make thine eyes to faile, and to make thine heart sorowfull: and all ye multitude of thine house shall die when they be men.