I Samuel 2:25

"If man sins against man, God judges him; but if a man sins against Jehovah, who can interpose with entreaty for him?" In the use of פּללו and יתפּלּל־לו there is a paranomasia which cannot be reproduced in our language. פּלּל signifies to decide or pass sentence (Gen 48:11), then to arbitrate, to settle a dispute as arbitrator (Eze 16:52; Psa 106:30), and in the Hithpael to act as mediator, hence to entreat. And these meanings are applicable here. In the case of one man's sin against another, God settles the dispute as arbitrator through the proper authorities; whereas, when a man sins against God, no one can interpose as arbitrator. Such a sin cannot be disposed of by intercession. But Eli's sons did not listen to this admonition, which was designed to reform daring sinners with mild words and representation; "for," adds the historian, "Jehovah was resolved to slay them." The father's reproof made no impression upon them, because they were already given up to the judgment of hardening. (On hardening as a divine sentence, see the discussions at Exo 4:21.)

In this chapter we have, I. Hannah's song of thanksgiving to God for his favour to her in giving her Samuel (Sa1 2:1-10). II. Their return to their family, with Eli's blessing (Sa1 2:11, Sa1 2:20). The increase of their family (Sa1 2:21). Samuel's growth and improvement (Sa1 2:11, Sa1 2:18, Sa1 2:21, Sa1 2:26), and the care Hannah took to clothe him (Sa1 2:19). III. The great wickedness of Eli's sons (Sa1 2:12-17, Sa1 2:22). IV. The over-mild reproof that Eli gave them for it (Sa1 2:23-25). V. The justly dreadful message God sent him by a prophet, threatening the ruin of his family for the wickedness of his sons (Sa1 2:27-36).

2:25 God (or the judges; Hebrew ’elohim): The Hebrew verb translated mediate is plural here, and when ’elohim means “God,” it often appears with a singular verb. In addition, some ancient translations render ’elohim as “judges” here. If that is the correct translation, then the judges would mediate for the guilty party in a common human court. However, many Hebrew scholars believe that ’elohim should never be translated “judges.” If this is the case, in what sense could God mediate for the guilty party? Possibly Eli considered the court verdict to come directly from God. God might work through his revealed law or other circumstances to either acquit or convict an individual charged with wrongdoing. Or Eli might have been referring to the sacrificial system. • The sexual immorality (2:22) and gluttony (2:12-17) of Eli’s sons were sins against the Lord because they were corrupting Israel’s worship of him. No one can intercede for sinners who rebel so completely against God’s will (cp. Matt 12:31). • Eli’s sons did not listen to their father because the Lord had already begun to punish them by hardening their hearts (cp. Exod 4:21; 7:3; 8:15-32; 10:27; 11:10).