Samuel

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew Šĕmûʾēl, commonly understood as “heard of God,” reflecting Hannah’s request and God’s response (1 Sam 1:20).
• Period/Era: United Monarchy (transition from the judges to Israel’s first kings).
• Main References: 1 Samuel 1–25; 1 Chronicles 6:33–38; Jeremiah 15:1; Psalm 99:6.
• Key Connections: Hannah and Elkanah; Eli the priest at Shiloh; Israel’s tribal assembly; Saul and David as anointed kings.

Who was Samuel?

Samuel was dedicated to the LORD from childhood and served at Shiloh under Eli (1 Sam 1–3).
He became a recognized prophet and a leader who administered justice in Israel (1 Sam 3:19–20; 7:15–17).
He guided Israel in covenant loyalty and represented them before the LORD in worship and intercession (1 Sam 7:3–9).
He played a central role in Israel’s shift from tribal leadership to kingship (1 Sam 8–10).

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Received a formative prophetic call at Shiloh, announcing judgment on Eli’s house (1 Sam 3:1–18).
• Event 2: Led Israel in renewal at Mizpah and the defeat of the Philistines, setting up the Ebenezer memorial (1 Sam 7:5–12).
• Event 3: Anointed Saul as Israel’s first king and later anointed David in Bethlehem (1 Sam 10:1; 16:13).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Samuel’s life shows how prophetic leadership and worship guided Israel’s covenant life during the transition into monarchy.

Key Verse

"Then all Israel from Dan to Beersheba recognized that Samuel was attested as a prophet of the LORD." — 1 Samuel 3:20, NIV