Definition: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 15:22. It's a really important and powerful passage about God’s love and how to show respect to Him. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is really pleased when people follow His instructions and obey Him, especially when they prioritize listening to Him over elaborate rituals like sacrifices. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And Samuel said…” : This sets the scene – Samuel is a leader, and he’s asking this question. “…Hath the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices?” : This means God really loves and appreciates things that are done out of obedience to Him. He finds it beautiful when people follow His rules and show respect. Think of it like admiring a beautiful piece of art – you appreciate it because it’s created by someone who followed a specific set of instructions. “…as in obeying the voice of the LORD?” : This is the key part! God wants us to listen to Him, not just perform rituals. He wants us to understand what He wants and do what He asks. “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…” : This is a strong statement. God says that following His instructions is better than performing complicated sacrifices. “…and to hearken than the fat of rams?” : This compares obeying God to listening to his words – it’s like hearing his voice clearly and understanding what's important. The “fat of rams” part is a metaphor for something grand, impressive, or valuable that might seem more appealing at first glance (like a large offering). But God says that listening to Him is far greater. In short: God wants us to prioritize listening to His voice over performing complicated rituals. It’s about showing respect and obedience through our actions, not just through outward displays of worship. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the importance of humility and listening to God's guidance in all areas of life – from our relationships to our decisions. It emphasizes that true devotion comes from understanding and obeying His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Connect it to a particular story or event in the Bible?