King James Version
What Does 2 Chronicles 10:7 Mean?
“And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.”
Context
5
And he said unto them, Come again unto me after three days. And the people departed.
6
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?
7
And they spake unto him, saying, If thou be kind to this people, and please them, and speak good words to them, they will be thy servants for ever.
8
But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that were brought up with him, that stood before him.
9
And he said unto them, What advice give ye that we may return answer to this people, which have spoken to me, saying, Ease somewhat the yoke that thy father did put upon us?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **If thou be kind to this people.**—A free paraphrase of, “If *to-day* thou become *a servant* to this people and *serve* them” (Kings)—words which may have seemed inappropriate to the redactor, in connection with *the king,* but which form a pointed antithesis to the last clause of the verse, “they will be *thy* *servants for ever.”*
**And please them.**—*Be propitious to them, receive them graciously* (*raçah*)*.* (Genesis 33:10.) Kings, “answer them.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Chronicles 10:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Chronicles 10:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge