Definition: And he said unto them, What counsel give ye that we may answer this people, who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Kings 12:9. It’s a really important passage about leadership and obedience. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: “What counsel give ye…” – This is asking for advice from the people. “…that we may answer this people…” – The people are talking to King David, and he’s asking for guidance on how to respond to them. "...who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter?”” – This is the most crucial part. They're saying, "Could we make our current laws or rules (the “yoke”) less burdensome?" The word "yoke" refers to a heavy and oppressive system of labor or obligations. Putting it Together - A Simple Explanation: King David was receiving complaints from the people – they were unhappy with the rules he set. They wanted things to be easier, more lenient, and less demanding. So, he asked for advice on how to respond to them in a way that would satisfy their desires without completely abandoning his established laws. What it Means Figuratively: This verse speaks to a broader idea of leadership – especially when dealing with difficult or unpopular people. It's about finding a balance between: Following rules (like the yoke): These rules are important for maintaining order and justice. Being compassionate and understanding: People want to be treated fairly, and their concerns shouldn’t be ignored. Important Note: It’s worth noting that this verse is a bit complex – it's not just about simple "lighter" laws. It highlights the challenge of satisfying everyone while upholding important principles. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail, or perhaps explore why this passage is significant? For example, we could discuss: The context of the time – what was happening in Israel at the time? The idea of “obedience” vs. “compromise.”