Definition: And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 8:3. It's a really important moment in the story of Samuel and God’s relationship with Israel. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: God is angry: The verse sets the stage for a significant disagreement between God and King Saul. God has been watching Saul and his family for a long time and is deeply disappointed by their behavior. Saul asks for a god – a human king: Saul, feeling he needs to be powerful and secure, decides to make a covenant with another god – a god named Tupahuti (which means "God of the People"). He wants to have a god who can help him rule as king. The Sons Become Corrupted: This is where it gets tricky. Saul’s sons, driven by greed and a desire for power, actively start rejecting his rules and traditions. They become corrupt – they take bribes (money), abuse judgment, and generally act in ways that contradict what God has taught them. What it Means in Simple Terms: Think of it like this: Saul's sons are completely abandoning the way God has guided Israel for centuries. They’re prioritizing personal gain over obedience to God's laws and principles. They've become selfish, dishonest, and disrespectful. Key Takeaway: This verse is a warning about the dangers of prioritizing earthly power and wealth over following God's will and righteous living. It highlights that even with powerful leaders, it’s important to remain faithful to God's instructions and values. In essence, it’s saying: "Don't let your ambition and desire for things to be easy overshadow the importance of doing what is right." --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context (like the fall of Israel)?