1 Samuel 1:24: “After he was weaned, she took the boy with her, young as he was, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh.”
Extended Explanation
1 Samuel 1:24 describes the moment when Hannah fulfills her vow to God by bringing her young son Samuel to the Tabernacle at Shiloh. After weaning Samuel, which likely took about three years, Hannah takes him along with a sacrificial offering—a three-year-old bull, flour, and wine. These items were part of the customary offerings used in worship and dedication ceremonies. This act shows Hannah’s deep commitment to her promise to God, as she not only dedicates her son but also brings a generous offering to honor the Lord. Hannah’s faithfulness in this moment is a powerful testament to her dedication and trust in God.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the weaning of a child marked a significant transition from infancy to early childhood, often seen as a time when a child could survive more independently. This was a common age to begin to fulfill vows made regarding a child’s dedication to God. The offerings that Hannah brought were part of the customary sacrifices prescribed in the Law, used for purification, dedication, and thanksgiving. Shiloh was the central place of worship before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, and it was the primary location for Israelite worship and sacrifices during this period. Hannah’s actions align with the cultural and religious practices of her time, demonstrating her commitment to following God’s ways.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of fulfilling our promises to God with heartfelt devotion. Hannah’s act of bringing Samuel to the Tabernacle shows that she fully trusted God with her most precious gift—her son. It emphasizes that our worship involves not just words but actions that reflect our deepest commitments to God. Hannah’s offering alongside Samuel demonstrates a heart of gratitude and surrender, showing that worship is not just about receiving from God but also about giving back to Him in response to His faithfulness.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses descriptive details to paint a vivid picture of Hannah’s dedication. The inclusion of the specific offerings—a bull, flour, and wine—adds a sense of completeness and solemnity to the scene, emphasizing the seriousness of her vow. The phrase “young as he was” highlights Samuel’s tender age, underscoring the emotional weight of Hannah’s sacrifice. The literary focus on action rather than dialogue here conveys the depth of Hannah’s commitment without needing many words, capturing the powerful act of fulfilling a vow with grace and obedience.
Biblical Cross-References
- Numbers 15:8-10 – This passage outlines the required offerings when fulfilling a vow, which included animals, flour, and wine, reflecting the type of offerings Hannah brought with Samuel.
- Psalm 50:14 – “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.” This verse captures the essence of Hannah’s actions, emphasizing the importance of keeping vows made to God.
- Luke 2:22-24 – “When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” Just as Hannah presented Samuel, Mary and Joseph dedicated Jesus according to God’s law, showing a consistent theme of fulfilling vows and dedicating children to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse teaches us about the significance of following through on our commitments to God. Hannah’s example shows that fulfilling promises to God should be done thoughtfully, joyfully, and with the best of what we have to offer. It challenges us to consider how we can bring our “offerings”—our time, talents, and treasures—to God as acts of worship. This verse also encourages us to trust God with our most valued blessings, knowing that He is worthy of our deepest trust and highest devotion.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Hannah’s dedication of Samuel reveals a God who honors faithfulness and receives our offerings with grace. God’s love is evident in how He not only answered Hannah’s prayer but also accepted her sacrificial act of worship. This verse shows that God values our commitments, no matter how great or small, and that He lovingly receives the gifts we bring to Him when they are offered from a sincere heart. It also reminds us that God’s love is not transactional but relational, inviting us to respond to His faithfulness with our own acts of devotion.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Hannah’s act of bringing Samuel to the Lord parallels the ultimate act of dedication and sacrifice seen in Jesus Christ. Just as Samuel was given to serve God’s purposes, Jesus was sent into the world to fulfill the greatest mission of all—bringing salvation to humanity. Hannah’s willingness to offer Samuel foreshadows God’s willingness to offer His only Son, Jesus, as the ultimate sacrifice (John 3:16). Christ’s life, death, and resurrection are the fulfillment of God’s greatest promise, showing that God always keeps His word and honors those who faithfully serve Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Hannah’s faithfulness in bringing Samuel to God challenge you to fulfill your own promises to God?
- What can you learn from Hannah about the importance of giving back to God in response to His faithfulness in your life?
- How can you offer your “best” to God in your daily life, whether through your time, talents, or resources?
- In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust God with the things you hold most dear, knowing that He is worthy of your trust and devotion?