Commentary on 1 Samuel 2
1 Samuel 2 presents a juxtaposition of devotion and corruption in ancient Israel, opening with Hannah’s heartfelt prayer of thanksgiving, a poignant reflection of her deep faith after the birth of her son Samuel. The chapter then shifts to the contrasting story of Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, whose sacrilegious actions starkly oppose Samuel’s growing faithfulness.
As this juxtaposition unfolds, we witness a prophetic warning against Eli’s household, setting the stage for significant shifts in Israel’s religious and political landscape.
This chapter not only narrates pivotal events but also offers profound insights into themes of faith, judgment, and divine providence.
1 Samuel 2:1-10, Hannah’s Prayer of Thanksgiving
Hannah’s prayer in this segment is a powerful expression of her gratitude and faith.
In (1 Samuel 2:1), she rejoices in the Lord’s deliverance, underscoring the personal nature of her relationship with God. This prayer is not just an outpouring of thanksgiving but also a profound reflection. She acknowledges God’s sovereignty and justice, as seen in verses like (1 Samuel 2:6-7), where she speaks of the Lord’s power over life and death, and his ability to exalt and humble.
Hannah’s prayer is also prophetic, foreshadowing the themes of reversal of fortunes, a common motif in biblical narratives, where the humble are exalted, and the proud are brought low. The closing verses (1 Samuel 2:9-10) encapsulate this theme, emphasizing God’s protection for the faithful and his ultimate judgment.
1 Samuel 2:11, Samuel Ministers Before the Lord
This brief verse marks a significant transition in the narrative. Samuel, now a young boy, begins his service in the presence of the Lord under Eli’s guidance.
This verse (1 Samuel 2:11) sets the stage for Samuel’s future role as a prophet and judge in Israel. It’s a moment of growth and progression, both for Samuel and the narrative itself, as it moves from Hannah’s personal story to the broader story of Israel and God’s unfolding plan.
1 Samuel 2:12-17, The Wickedness of Eli’s Sons
In stark contrast to Samuel’s faithful service, Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are described as corrupt (1 Samuel 2:12). Their actions, detailed in verses like (1 Samuel 2:13-14), show a blatant disregard for the Lord’s sacrificial system and a lack of respect for the offerings made by the people.
This section highlights the corruption in the priestly system, where the very individuals responsible for leading the people in worship are themselves morally bankrupt. The gravity of their sin is further underscored in (1 Samuel 2:17), which declares their actions as contemptuous in the eyes of the Lord.
1 Samuel 2:18-21, Samuel’s Growth and Ministry
In contrast to the narrative of Eli’s sons, this segment focuses on Samuel’s growth and ministry.
Samuel is depicted as a dedicated servant of the Lord, with a verse like (1 Samuel 2:18) illustrating his faithful service even as a child. This passage, especially in (1 Samuel 2:21), also highlights the continued blessings upon Hannah, who had dedicated Samuel to the Lord and serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to those who are faithful to Him.
1 Samuel 2:22-26, Eli Rebukes His Sons and Samuel’s Favor with God and People
Eli’s rebuke of his sons in (1 Samuel 2:22-25) shows his awareness of their sins and his attempt to admonish them. However, their hearts are hardened, as indicated in (1 Samuel 2:25), suggesting a point of no return for them.
Simultaneously, Samuel’s favor with God and people, mentioned in (1 Samuel 2:26), echoes the earlier story of Samuel’s growth and God’s blessing upon him.
This juxtaposition between the corruption of Eli’s sons and the favor upon Samuel further highlights the themes of righteousness and sin.
1 Samuel 2:27-36, Prophecy Against Eli’s House
This section introduces a man of God who prophesies against Eli’s house in response to the sins of his sons (1 Samuel 2:27-28). The prophecy, particularly in (1 Samuel 2:30-31), emphasizes that honor comes from honoring God, and dishonor follows those who despise Him.
The fate of Eli’s lineage is sealed by their actions, as the prophecy foretells the downfall of his family’s priestly lineage. This pronouncement is a stark reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and the importance of adhering to God’s commands.
