1 Samuel 3:10
And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָה֙
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָה֙
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 14
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וַיִּתְיַצַּ֔ב
and stood
H3320
וַיִּתְיַצַּ֔ב
and stood
Strong's:
H3320
Word #:
3 of 14
to place (any thing so as to stay); reflexively, to station, offer, continue
וַיִּקְרָ֥א
and called
H7121
וַיִּקְרָ֥א
and called
Strong's:
H7121
Word #:
4 of 14
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
בְּפַ֖עַם
as at other times
H6471
בְּפַ֖עַם
as at other times
Strong's:
H6471
Word #:
5 of 14
a stroke, literally or figuratively (in various applications, as follow)
בְּפַ֖עַם
as at other times
H6471
בְּפַ֖עַם
as at other times
Strong's:
H6471
Word #:
6 of 14
a stroke, literally or figuratively (in various applications, as follow)
דַּבֵּ֔ר
Speak
H1696
דַּבֵּ֔ר
Speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
11 of 14
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
12 of 14
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Historical Context
Divine theophany (God's appearing) is distinct from auditory revelation alone. The physical manifestation ('came, and stood') suggests a more intense form of encounter. Such theophanies appear at critical junctures in salvation history.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the intensification of God's presence in this call affect Samuel's response?
- What distinguishes general awareness of God from specific encounter with His presence?
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Analysis & Commentary
The fourth encounter differs significantly: 'the LORD came, and stood.' This is not merely a voice but a presence. The phrase intensifies the divine encounter - God is present in a way He was not before. The doubled name 'Samuel, Samuel' signals urgency and affection (compare Genesis 22:11; Exodus 3:4). Samuel responds with the shortened formula 'Speak; for thy servant heareth,' omitting 'LORD' - perhaps too overwhelmed by the Presence to add the name. The encounter has moved from calling to commissioning.