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1 Kings 12:6

1 Kings 12:6 in Multiple Translations

Then King Rehoboam consulted with the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How do you advise me to respond to these people?” he asked.

¶ And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people?

And king Rehoboam took counsel with the old men, that had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, What counsel give ye me to return answer to this people?

Then King Rehoboam took the opinion of the old men who had been with Solomon his father when he was living, and said, In your opinion, what answer am I to give to this people?

King Rehoboam asked for advice from the elders who had served his father Solomon when he was alive. “How do you advise me to reply to these people about this?” he asked.

And King Rehoboam tooke counsell with the olde men that had stande before Salomon his father, while he yet liued, and sayde, What counsell giue ye, that I may make an answere to this people?

And king Rehoboam consulteth with the elders who have been standing in the presence of Solomon his father, in his being alive, saying, 'How are ye counselling to answer this people?'

King Rehoboam took counsel with the old men who had stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, saying, “What counsel do you give me to answer these people?”

And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people?

King Roboam took counsel with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and he said: What counsel do you give me, that I may answer this people?

Then King Rehoboam consulted the older men who had advised his father Solomon while he was still living. He asked them, “What shall I say to answer those men?”

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 12:6

BAB
Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Kings 12:6 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וַ/יִּוָּעַ֞ץ הַ/מֶּ֣לֶךְ רְחַבְעָ֗ם אֶת הַ/זְּקֵנִים֙ אֲשֶׁר הָי֣וּ עֹמְדִ֗ים אֶת פְּנֵי֙ שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה אָבִ֔י/ו בִּֽ/הְיֹת֥/וֹ חַ֖י לֵ/אמֹ֑ר אֵ֚יךְ אַתֶּ֣ם נֽוֹעָצִ֔ים לְ/הָשִׁ֥יב אֶת הָֽ/עָם הַ/זֶּ֖ה דָּבָֽר
וַ/יִּוָּעַ֞ץ yâʻats H3289 to advise Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
הַ/מֶּ֣לֶךְ melek H4428 King's Art | N-ms
רְחַבְעָ֗ם Rᵉchabʻâm H7346 Rehoboam N-proper
אֶת ʼêth H854 with Prep
הַ/זְּקֵנִים֙ zâqên H2205 old Art | Adj
אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel
הָי֣וּ hâyâh H1961 to be V-Qal-Perf-3cp
עֹמְדִ֗ים ʻâmad H5975 to stand V-Qal
אֶת ʼêth H854 with Prep
פְּנֵי֙ pânîym H6440 face N-cp
שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה Shᵉlômôh H8010 Solomon N-proper
אָבִ֔י/ו ʼâb H1 father N-ms | Suff
בִּֽ/הְיֹת֥/וֹ hâyâh H1961 to be Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
חַ֖י chay H2416 alive Adj
לֵ/אמֹ֑ר ʼâmar H559 to say Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
אֵ֚יךְ ʼêyk H349 how? Part
אַתֶּ֣ם ʼattâh H859 you(m.s.) Pron
נֽוֹעָצִ֔ים yâʻats H3289 to advise V-Niphal
לְ/הָשִׁ֥יב shûwb H7725 to return Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
הָֽ/עָם ʻam H5971 Amaw Art | N-ms
הַ/זֶּ֖ה zeh H2088 this Art | Pron
דָּבָֽר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-ms
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 12:6

וַ/יִּוָּעַ֞ץ yâʻats H3289 "to advise" Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to advise or counsel someone, like giving guidance or planning something. It is used in the Bible to describe people seeking advice or working together to make a plan. The KJV translates it as advise or counsel.
Definition: 1) to advise, consult, give counsel, counsel, purpose, devise, plan 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to advise, counsel, give counsel, consult 1a2) counsellor (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to consult together, exchange counsel, deliberate, counsel together 1c) (Hithpael) to conspire
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: advertise, take advise, advise (well), consult, (give, take) counsel(-lor), determine, devise, guide, purpose. See also: Exodus 18:19; Job 26:3; Psalms 16:7.
הַ/מֶּ֣לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" Art | N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
רְחַבְעָ֗ם Rᵉchabʻâm H7346 "Rehoboam" N-proper
Rehoboam was a king of Judah, son of Solomon and Naamah, and is first mentioned in 1 Kings 11:43. He had several wives and children, including Abijah and Jeush. Rehoboam played a key role in the United and Divided Monarchy periods.
Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchyand Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ki.11.43; son of: Solomon (H8010) and Naamah (H5279A); brother of: Taphath (H2955) and Basemath (H1315); married to Maacah (H4601K), Mahalath (H4258H) and Abihail (H0032J); father of: Abijah (H0029I), Jeush (H3266K), Shemariah (H8114H), Zaham (H2093), Attai (H6262I), Ziza (H2124H) and Shelomith (H8019) Also named: Rhoboam (Ῥοβοάμ "Rehoboam" G4497) § Rehoboam = "a people has enlarged" son of Solomon and the 1st king of Judah after the split up of the kingdom of Israel
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: Rehoboam. See also: 1 Kings 11:43; 2 Chronicles 10:3; 2 Chronicles 13:7.
אֶת ʼêth H854 "with" Prep
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)
Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.
הַ/זְּקֵנִים֙ zâqên H2205 "old" Art | Adj
This Hebrew word means old or elderly, as in the case of the elderly men who appeared to Abraham in Genesis 18:11. It can also refer to those in positions of authority, like the elders who helped Moses in Exodus 24:1. The term is used to describe respect and leadership.
Definition: : old 1) old 1a) old (of humans) 1b) elder (of those having authority) Also means: za.qen (זָקֵן ": elder" H2205)
Usage: Occurs in 171 OT verses. KJV: aged, ancient (man), elder(-est), old (man, men and...women), senator. See also: Genesis 18:11; 1 Samuel 28:14; Psalms 105:22.
אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
הָי֣וּ hâyâh H1961 "to be" V-Qal-Perf-3cp
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
עֹמְדִ֗ים ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" V-Qal
Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.
Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before
Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.
אֶת ʼêth H854 "with" Prep
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)
Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.
פְּנֵי֙ pânîym H6440 "face" N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה Shᵉlômôh H8010 "Solomon" N-proper
Shelomoh, or Solomon, was a king of Judah and successor of his father David, first mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:14 and known for his wisdom.
Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.5.14; son of: David (H1732) and Bathsheba (H1339); brother of: Shammua (H8051H), Shobab (H7727) and Nathan (H5416); half-brother of: Amnon (H0550), Chileab (H3609), Absalom (H0053), Adonijah (H0138), Shephatiah (H8203), Ithream (H3507), Ibhar (H2984), Elishua (H0474), Nepheg (H5298H), Japhia (H3309I), Elishama (H0476H), Eliada (H0450), Eliphelet (H0467), Tamar (H8559H), Elpelet (H0467I), Nogah (H5052) and Jerimoth (H3406N); married to daughter_of_Pharaoh (H6547P) and Naamah (H5279A); father of: Taphath (H2955), Basemath (H1315) and Rehoboam (H7346); also called Jedidiah at 2Sa.12.25; § Solomon = "peace" son of David by Bathsheba and 3rd king of Israel; author of Proverbs and Song of Songs
Usage: Occurs in 263 OT verses. KJV: Solomon. See also: 2 Samuel 5:14; 1 Kings 9:25; 2 Chronicles 7:8.
אָבִ֔י/ו ʼâb H1 "father" N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
בִּֽ/הְיֹת֥/וֹ hâyâh H1961 "to be" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
חַ֖י chay H2416 "alive" Adj
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
לֵ/אמֹ֑ר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
אֵ֚יךְ ʼêyk H349 "how?" Part
In the Bible, this word means 'how' or 'where', like in Genesis when God asks Adam 'where are you'. It's also used to express surprise or excitement.
Definition: interrog adv how?
Usage: Occurs in 74 OT verses. KJV: how, what. See also: Genesis 26:9; Ecclesiastes 2:16; Psalms 11:1.
אַתֶּ֣ם ʼattâh H859 "you(m.s.)" Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
נֽוֹעָצִ֔ים yâʻats H3289 "to advise" V-Niphal
This Hebrew word means to advise or counsel someone, like giving guidance or planning something. It is used in the Bible to describe people seeking advice or working together to make a plan. The KJV translates it as advise or counsel.
Definition: 1) to advise, consult, give counsel, counsel, purpose, devise, plan 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to advise, counsel, give counsel, consult 1a2) counsellor (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to consult together, exchange counsel, deliberate, counsel together 1c) (Hithpael) to conspire
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: advertise, take advise, advise (well), consult, (give, take) counsel(-lor), determine, devise, guide, purpose. See also: Exodus 18:19; Job 26:3; Psalms 16:7.
לְ/הָשִׁ֥יב shûwb H7725 "to return" Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to return or turn back, and can be used literally or figuratively. It is often used to describe someone returning to God or repenting from sin, as seen in the book of Psalms and the prophets.
Definition: : return 1) to return, turn back 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to turn back, return 1a1a) to turn back 1a1b) to return, come or go back 1a1c) to return unto, go back, come back 1a1d) of dying 1a1e) of human relations (fig) 1a1f) of spiritual relations (fig) 1a1f1) to turn back (from God), apostatise 1a1f2) to turn away (of God) 1a1f3) to turn back (to God), repent 1a1f4) turn back (from evil) 1a1g) of inanimate things 1a1h) in repetition 1b) (Polel) 1b1) to bring back 1b2) to restore, refresh, repair (fig) 1b3) to lead away (enticingly) 1b4) to show turning, apostatise 1c) (Pual) restored (participle) 1d) (Hiphil) to cause to return, bring back 1d1) to bring back, allow to return, put back, draw back, give back, restore, relinquish, give in payment 1d2) to bring back, refresh, restore 1d3) to bring back, report to, answer 1d4) to bring back, make requital, pay (as recompense) 1d5) to turn back or backward, repel, defeat, repulse, hinder, reject, refuse 1d6) to turn away (face), turn toward 1d7) to turn against 1d8) to bring back to mind 1d9) to show a turning away 1d10) to reverse, revoke 1e) (Hophal) to be returned, be restored, be brought back 1f) (Pulal) brought back
Usage: Occurs in 953 OT verses. KJV: ((break, build, circumcise, dig, do anything, do evil, feed, lay down, lie down, lodge, make, rejoice, send, take, weep)) [idiom] again, (cause to) answer ([phrase] again), [idiom] in any case (wise), [idiom] at all, averse, bring (again, back, home again), call (to mind), carry again (back), cease, [idiom] certainly, come again (back), [idiom] consider, [phrase] continually, convert, deliver (again), [phrase] deny, draw back, fetch home again, [idiom] fro, get (oneself) (back) again, [idiom] give (again), go again (back, home), (go) out, hinder, let, (see) more, [idiom] needs, be past, [idiom] pay, pervert, pull in again, put (again, up again), recall, recompense, recover, refresh, relieve, render (again), requite, rescue, restore, retrieve, (cause to, make to) return, reverse, reward, [phrase] say nay, send back, set again, slide back, still, [idiom] surely, take back (off), (cause to, make to) turn (again, self again, away, back, back again, backward, from, off), withdraw. See also: Genesis 3:19; Numbers 8:25; Judges 8:13.
אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הָֽ/עָם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
הַ/זֶּ֖ה zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.
Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how
Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.
דָּבָֽר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" N-ms
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

Study Notes — 1 Kings 12:6

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Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Job 12:12 Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life.
2 Job 32:7 I thought that age should speak, and many years should teach wisdom.
3 2 Samuel 16:20 Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, “Give me counsel. What should we do?”
4 Jeremiah 43:2 Azariah son of Hoshaiah, Johanan son of Kareah, and all the arrogant men said to Jeremiah, “You are lying! The LORD our God has not sent you to say, ‘You must not go to Egypt to reside there.’
5 Jeremiah 42:2–5 Jeremiah the prophet and said, “May our petition come before you; pray to the LORD your God on behalf of this entire remnant. For few of us remain of the many, as you can see with your own eyes. Pray that the LORD your God will tell us the way we should walk and the thing we should do.” “I have heard you,” replied Jeremiah the prophet. “I will surely pray to the LORD your God as you request, and I will tell you everything that the LORD answers; I will not withhold a word from you.” Then they said to Jeremiah, “May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us if we do not act upon every word that the LORD your God sends you to tell us.
6 1 Kings 4:2 and these were his chief officials: Azariah son of Zadok was the priest;
7 2 Samuel 17:5 Then Absalom said, “Summon Hushai the Archite as well, and let us hear what he too has to say.”
8 Proverbs 27:10 Do not forsake your friend or your father’s friend, and do not go to your brother’s house in the day of your calamity; better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.

1 Kings 12:6 Summary

In this verse, King Rehoboam is trying to figure out how to respond to the people's request to lighten their burden. He decides to ask for advice from the elders who had served his father Solomon, which shows that he values their wisdom and experience, similar to how Solomon sought wisdom from God in 1 Kings 3:5-14. This is an important lesson for us, as it reminds us to seek counsel from others, especially those with more experience and wisdom, as Proverbs 11:14 suggests. By seeking advice and considering different perspectives, we can make wiser decisions and demonstrate humility, just like King Rehoboam, and as encouraged in Proverbs 1:7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did King Rehoboam consult with the elders who had served his father Solomon?

King Rehoboam consulted with the elders because he valued their wisdom and experience, as seen in 1 Kings 12:6, and he wanted to know how to respond to the people's request to lighten their burden, similar to how Solomon sought wisdom from God in 1 Kings 3:5-14.

What can we learn from King Rehoboam's decision to consult with others?

We can learn the importance of seeking counsel from others, especially those with more experience and wisdom, as Proverbs 11:14 and Proverbs 24:6 suggest, and this is evident in King Rehoboam's actions in 1 Kings 12:6.

How does this verse relate to the concept of leadership and decision-making?

This verse shows that effective leadership involves seeking advice from others, as seen in Exodus 18:13-27, and considering different perspectives before making a decision, which is a key aspect of wise leadership, as emphasized in Proverbs 1:7.

What role does humility play in King Rehoboam's decision to consult with the elders?

King Rehoboam's decision to consult with the elders demonstrates a measure of humility, as he recognizes the value of their experience and wisdom, similar to how Solomon humbled himself before God in 1 Kings 3:5-14, and this humility is an important aspect of effective leadership, as seen in Proverbs 22:4.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some areas in my life where I need to seek advice from others, and how can I humble myself to receive their counsel?
  2. How can I balance the need for wise counsel with the need to make decisions and take action, as seen in 1 Kings 12:6 and Proverbs 27:9?
  3. What are some ways I can prioritize seeking wisdom and guidance from God, as King Rehoboam sought advice from the elders, and how can I apply this to my daily life?
  4. In what ways can I demonstrate humility in my own life, similar to King Rehoboam's decision to consult with the elders, and what are the benefits of humility in my relationships and decision-making?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 12:6

And King Rehoboam consulted with the old men that stood before Solomon his father, while he yet lived,.... Which was very prudently done; for as these were men in years, and had been his father's

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 12:6

And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people? No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 12:6

With the old men that stood before Solomon; with Solomon’ s old counsellors, whom age, and experience of men and things, and converse with such a king, had made wise.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 12:6

1 Kings 12:6 And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people?Ver. 6. And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men.] This was right; for "with the ancient is wisdom, and in length of days is understanding," Cautius dimicant veterani milites. “ Vulneribus didicit miles habere rectum. ” Those who have bought their wit, will walk more warily, and advise more solidly.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 12:6

6. And king Rehoboam consulted] That the close similarity between the narrative here and 2 Chron. may be as apparent as possible to the English reader, the R.V. reads here as there, took counsel, and similarly in 1 Kings 12:8 ‘and took counsel with the young men.’ The change is of no importance to the sense, but where two passages are identical in the original they are with advantage represented so in the translation. the old men] These persons must have been advanced in years, and perhaps were not in public office under Rehoboam. The age of Rehoboam on his accession was 41 years (1 Kings 14:21). (See, however, the note at the end of this chapter.) So though he and his favoured advisers are spoken of as ‘young,’ they were not so, except in comparison with Solomon’s counsellors. How do you advise that I may answer] Here again in R.V. the translation is harmonized with 2 Chron. What counsel give ye me to return answer. Though this is certainly not so idiomatic as the English of Kings.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 12:6

The old men, that stood before Solomon his father - Perhaps “the princes” of 1 Kings 4:2. Solomon placed great value upon good advisers Proverbs 11:14; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 24:6.

Sermons on 1 Kings 12:6

SermonDescription
John Gill Of the Wisdom of God. by John Gill John Gill emphasizes the infinite wisdom of God, asserting that it is a fundamental attribute that surpasses human understanding. He illustrates how God's wisdom is evident in His
Roy Hession (Job: An Epic in Brokenness) 3. the Message of Elihu by Roy Hession In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Job and its various chapters. He highlights how Job's friends were amazed and stopped speaking, allowing Job to finally have a ch
Flavius Josephus From the Banishment of Archelaus to the Departure of the Jews From Babylon by Flavius Josephus Flavius Josephus recounts the tumultuous life of King Agrippa, detailing his financial troubles, debts, and his escape from Rome to Judea. Agrippa's friendship with Tiberius Caesar

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