The Consecration of Samuel

Context & Setting

• Main Biblical Reference: 1 Samuel 1:1–28; 2:11, 18–21, 26
• Historical Period: The late period of the judges, just before Israel’s monarchy
• Geographic Location: Ramah (home of Elkanah and Hannah), Shiloh (sanctuary/“house of the LORD”)
• Key Characters: Hannah, Elkanah, Samuel, Eli, Peninnah

The Narrative

The Beginning:
Elkanah regularly travels with his household to worship and sacrifice at Shiloh, where Eli serves as priest. Hannah, one of Elkanah’s wives, is deeply distressed because she has no children and is provoked by Peninnah, Elkanah’s other wife. In grief, Hannah prays at the sanctuary and makes a vow that if the LORD gives her a son, she will give him to the LORD for his whole life.

The Middle:
Eli initially misunderstands Hannah’s silent, intense prayer, but she explains her anguish and devotion, and Eli blesses her. The LORD remembers Hannah, and she gives birth to a son named Samuel, acknowledging God’s answer. After Samuel is weaned, Hannah brings him to Shiloh with offerings and presents him to Eli, fulfilling her vow. She publicly affirms that Samuel is given to the LORD, and she worships in thanksgiving.

The End:
Samuel remains at Shiloh to serve under Eli’s oversight in the presence of the LORD. Hannah continues to visit and provide a robe for Samuel, and the LORD blesses her with additional children. Samuel grows in stature and favor, marking him as a significant servant God is raising up for Israel.

Theological Meaning

This story highlights the LORD as the God who hears prayer and acts faithfully within Israel’s covenant life. Samuel’s consecration shows that God can raise a new, faithful servant at a time of spiritual need, using ordinary family life and worship at the sanctuary to advance His purposes. The narrative emphasizes worship, vow-keeping, and God’s initiative in preparing prophetic leadership that will shape Israel’s transition toward monarchy.

Historical & Cultural Insight

Shiloh functioned as a central worship site for Israel before the temple in Jerusalem, and the narrative assumes an established sanctuary with priestly oversight and regular pilgrimage sacrifice. Vows of dedication, accompanied by offerings, were a recognized part of Israel’s worship life, expressing gratitude and covenant loyalty to the LORD.

Key Memory Verse

“For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him.” — 1 Samuel 1:27