Definition: And the elders of his house arose, [and went] to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Samuel 12:17. It's a really important and somewhat surprising passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very difficult situation for King David. He had been deeply in trouble with God, and his friends – the elders of his household – were trying to bring him back from death. They wanted to raise him up, but David refused. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the elders of his house arose…” : This refers to David's older advisors and trusted figures. They were essentially acting as David’s representatives. “…to raise him up from the earth:” : This is the core of the story. David was nearing the end of his life, and he was considered to be dead. They wanted to bring him back to life. “…but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.” : This is the crucial part. David refused to share a meal with his friends. What does this mean? This refusal wasn’t just about being polite; it was a profound and serious act of defiance against God. It suggests: David's Sin: He was deeply guilty of sin, likely involving infidelity (as evidenced by the fact he was having an affair with Bathsheba). Disrespect for God: He was rejecting God’s authority and His plan for his life. A Desire for a Different Life: It speaks to a longing for a different path – perhaps one that wasn't guided by divine will. Why is this important? This verse is significant because it highlights: David’s Broken Relationship with God: It shows a significant rift between David and his deity, leading to his downfall. The Importance of Obedience: It emphasizes that obedience to God's commands is absolutely vital for a righteous life. In short, this verse paints a picture of a man who was deeply troubled by sin and rejected the guidance of those around him, ultimately jeopardizing his own well-being. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from 2 Samuel 12? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger narrative of David’s life?