Definition: Now the sons of Eli [were] sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 2:12. It’s a really important piece of history and has some interesting implications. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that the people who lived near Jerusalem during the time of King Saul were descended from a group of men named Belial. Let's unpack that a bit: “The sons of Eli…” : This refers to a specific family line. "Eli" was a prominent figure in the region, and his descendants were the ones who lived nearby. “…were sons of Belial” : Belial was a very important man – he was a counselor to King Saul. He was known for being a bit…well, let's just say unconventional . “They knew not the LORD.” : This is the key part! The people who were descendants of Belial didn’t have any knowledge or understanding of God. They weren't religious or familiar with the one true God. Why was this significant? This verse is a crucial clue to understanding why Saul, the king of Israel, eventually left for battle. He wasn’t just being cautious; he was deliberately not going to worship God. He believed that worshipping God would be a distraction and a danger to his mission. It suggests a deep-seated rejection of the divine – a fundamental shift in their worldview. It's a hint that this group had been influenced by other cultures and beliefs, and they chose to distance themselves from the true God. In short: This verse describes a family line that was disconnected from God and ultimately led to a decision that impacted the course of history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might mean in a broader context (like ancient Israel)?