1 Samuel 1:25: “When the bull had been sacrificed, they brought the boy to Eli,”
Extended Explanation
1 Samuel 1:25 describes the moment when Hannah and her family bring Samuel to Eli, the priest, at the Tabernacle in Shiloh. Before presenting Samuel, they first sacrifice a bull, which was part of the offering Hannah brought as she fulfilled her vow to dedicate her son to the Lord. This sacrifice was a significant act of worship, symbolizing gratitude, dedication, and obedience to God. Bringing Samuel to Eli marked the culmination of Hannah’s promise to God—a promise she had made during her time of deep distress. This verse shows Hannah’s commitment to her word and her willingness to give Samuel to God’s service as she had vowed.
Historical Context
In the context of ancient Israel, sacrifices were a central part of worship and dedication. Sacrificing a bull was a costly and valuable offering, often associated with fulfilling vows, thanksgiving, and atonement. This act underscored the seriousness of Hannah’s commitment and the importance of approaching God with reverence and a willing heart. Bringing Samuel to Eli, the high priest, was a crucial step in formally dedicating him to a life of service to God. Eli’s role as a priest and judge made him responsible for guiding Samuel’s upbringing in the Tabernacle, preparing him for his future role as a prophet and leader in Israel.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of obedience and sacrificial worship in our relationship with God. Hannah’s willingness to give Samuel to God shows that true worship involves not just words or intentions but tangible actions that demonstrate our commitment to God. It teaches that when we make promises to God, we must follow through with them wholeheartedly, even when it requires personal sacrifice. The sacrificial act reflects a heart fully devoted to God, willing to give back to Him what He has graciously provided.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses action to convey the depth of Hannah’s faith. The sequence of events—sacrificing the bull and then presenting Samuel—creates a narrative that emphasizes the seriousness of her vow. The act of bringing Samuel to Eli, the high priest, adds a formal and ceremonial tone to the moment, highlighting the transition of Samuel from his family to God’s service. The simplicity of the description belies the emotional weight of the scene, as Hannah hands over her son to fulfill her sacred promise.
Biblical Cross-References
- Numbers 15:8-10 – These verses outline the offerings required when fulfilling vows, including animal sacrifices, flour, and wine, which mirror the offerings Hannah brought with Samuel.
- Psalm 76:11 – “Make vows to the Lord your God and fulfill them; let all the neighboring lands bring gifts to the One to be feared.” This verse emphasizes the importance of keeping vows made to God, just as Hannah did.
- Romans 12:1 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Hannah’s act of dedicating Samuel parallels the call to offer ourselves fully to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our commitments to God and approaching Him with a heart of worship. Hannah’s example challenges us to not only make promises to God but to follow through on them with sincere actions, even when it costs us something valuable. It teaches us that our worship should be wholehearted, reflecting our dedication and gratitude to God. This verse also encourages us to remember that God values our faithfulness, not just in what we say but in what we do.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving nature by showing how He honors the faith and obedience of His people. God lovingly received Hannah’s offering of Samuel, a gift that came from a place of deep gratitude and trust. It highlights that God values our acts of worship, especially when they come from a sincere heart. God’s love is shown in how He works through our acts of obedience, using them to fulfill His greater purposes. Hannah’s willingness to dedicate Samuel demonstrates a deep trust in God’s loving care and His plan for Samuel’s life.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Hannah’s sacrifice of a bull and the dedication of her son Samuel point forward to the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. Just as Hannah gave Samuel to serve the Lord, Jesus gave His life as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross fulfilled all the requirements of the Old Testament sacrifices, making it possible for us to have a direct relationship with God (Hebrews 10:12). Hannah’s act of obedience mirrors the obedience of Jesus, who fulfilled His mission on earth in complete submission to God’s will (Philippians 2:8).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Hannah’s act of bringing Samuel to the Lord challenge you to fulfill your own commitments to God?
- What does this verse teach us about the importance of sacrificial worship and obedience in our relationship with God?
- How can you apply the principle of giving your best to God, even when it requires personal sacrifice?
- In what ways can you trust God with the things you dedicate to Him, knowing that He will use them according to His perfect plan?