1 Samuel 2:19: “Each year his mother made him a little robe and took it to him when she went up with her husband to offer the annual sacrifice.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
1 Samuel 2:19 paints a tender picture of Samuel’s early years as he served at the tabernacle under Eli’s guidance. Despite her son’s dedication to the Lord’s service, Hannah continued to care for Samuel in practical ways, making him a robe each year and bringing it to him when the family made their annual trip to Shiloh for the sacrifices. This verse shows the ongoing bond between mother and son, highlighting Hannah’s love and devotion even from a distance. Her yearly gift of a robe symbolized not only her love for Samuel but also her commitment to support him in his service to God, reminding him of her prayers and the promises she had made to the Lord.
Historical Context
Hannah’s story unfolds in a time when Israel was in a period of moral and spiritual decline, largely due to the corrupt leadership of the priests, including Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Despite these challenges, Samuel’s upbringing in the tabernacle under Eli’s supervision represented a new beginning for Israel. Hannah had longed for a child and vowed to dedicate Samuel to God’s service if He answered her prayers. After God blessed her with Samuel, Hannah fulfilled her vow, leaving Samuel to serve at Shiloh. Yet, her continued care for him, as shown by the robe she made each year, reflects her ongoing role in his life, nurturing him even as he grew in his priestly duties.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the faithfulness of a loving mother who keeps her promises to God. Hannah’s actions demonstrate that dedication to God’s service doesn’t mean severing all ties; rather, it’s about supporting and nurturing faith in practical ways. Her annual visits and the provision of the robe symbolize ongoing love, prayer, and commitment. This story also reflects the importance of family support in spiritual growth. God often uses family relationships to strengthen and encourage His servants, providing a foundation of love and faith that sustains them through their service.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses simple yet powerful imagery to show the love and devotion of Hannah toward Samuel. The detail of the “little robe” that Hannah made each year captures a mother’s ongoing care and personal investment in her son’s life. This yearly ritual underscores Hannah’s faithfulness not only to Samuel but also to God, as she continued to honor the vow she made. The narrative brings a human touch to the larger story of Samuel’s role in Israel’s history, reminding readers of the personal sacrifices and quiet acts of love that often undergird great works of faith.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 22:6: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Hannah’s nurturing role in Samuel’s life reflects the importance of a godly upbringing.
- 2 Timothy 1:5: Paul speaks of Timothy’s sincere faith, which first lived in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This verse highlights the impact of a mother’s faith on her child, similar to Hannah’s influence on Samuel.
- Philippians 1:3-5: Paul expresses gratitude for the partnership in faith, reflecting how support and encouragement play a vital role in ministry, much like Hannah’s ongoing support of Samuel.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, 1 Samuel 2:19 serves as a reminder of the importance of family support in our spiritual journey. It highlights the value of nurturing relationships that encourage and strengthen our faith. Whether through prayer, practical help, or emotional support, family and loved ones play a crucial role in sustaining those who serve God. This verse also emphasizes the significance of keeping promises to God and supporting others in their commitments, just as Hannah did for Samuel. It encourages believers to find ways to show love and support for those serving in ministry or other areas of spiritual leadership.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the way He allows family relationships to be a source of strength and encouragement. Hannah’s continued care for Samuel, even from a distance, mirrors God’s own nurturing care for His people. God’s love is often shown through the actions of others—like Hannah’s faithfulness and dedication—providing comfort and reassurance in times of separation or challenge. The story of Hannah and Samuel reminds us that God places people in our lives who help sustain us, reflecting His tender care and faithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Hannah’s faithfulness in supporting Samuel’s service foreshadows the nurturing and sacrificial love that Jesus demonstrated throughout His life and ministry. Jesus Himself experienced the loving care of His earthly mother, Mary, who stood by Him from His birth to His crucifixion. In Luke 2:51, it is said that Jesus was obedient to His parents, and Mary treasured all these things in her heart, reflecting the ongoing support and love that mothers provide. Just as Samuel was supported by his mother’s dedication, Jesus’ ministry was undergirded by the prayers and presence of His family, pointing to the importance of loving relationships in the life of faith.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Hannah’s ongoing care for Samuel inspire you to support those serving in ministry or other areas of spiritual leadership?
- In what ways can you show practical love and support to those who are dedicated to God’s service?
- How does this verse challenge you to keep your promises to God and to those around you?
- How can you reflect the nurturing love of God in your own relationships with family and friends?
This verse encourages us to nurture and support those around us, recognizing the powerful impact of love and faithfulness in the lives of those who serve God.