Definition: But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as [it was] against your fathers.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 12:15. It’s a really powerful and important warning about obedience. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that disobeying God’s instructions – even when you think you’re doing it right – will have serious consequences. It’s like a direct message from God telling you to stop and listen. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD…” - This is the first part. It means “If you refuse to listen to what God tells you.” The word "ye" is a plural form, so it’s talking about everyone who has disobeyed God before. "...but rebel against the commandment of the LORD." – This is the core of the warning. It means “If you refuse to follow what God says, even when he gives you instructions.” It's a direct challenge to breaking a rule or law that God has given. “Then shall the hand of the LORD be against you…” - This is a dramatic image. "The hand of the Lord" refers to God’s power and judgment. “Against you” means He will actively hurt you, cause problems for you, or even take away your blessings. It's not just about minor inconvenience; it suggests something much bigger. "...as [it was] against your fathers." – This is the most important part. It’s a comparison . God is saying this will happen to those who have disobeyed Him in the past, and it will be similar to what happened to their ancestors. It’s a pattern of punishment repeated across generations. In short: This verse warns us that disobeying God's instructions can lead to suffering and hardship for ourselves and our families. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's guidance and following His commands, because disobedience will be met with consequences. Why is this a significant passage? This story is a cornerstone of Jewish tradition, particularly in the Old Testament. It’s a reminder that obedience isn’t just about doing what we want to do; it's about doing what God wants us to do, and that ultimately leads to a positive outcome for our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of things that might lead to disobedience? Talk about the significance of this passage in different traditions (like Christianity)?