1 Samuel 3:19
And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּגְדַּ֖ל
grew
H1431
וַיִּגְדַּ֖ל
grew
Strong's:
H1431
Word #:
1 of 10
to be (causatively make) large (in various senses, as in body, mind, estate or honor, also in pride)
וַֽיהוָה֙
and the LORD
H3068
וַֽיהוָה֙
and the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 10
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
הָיָ֣ה
H1961
הָיָ֣ה
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
4 of 10
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
עִמּ֔וֹ
H5973
עִמּ֔וֹ
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
5 of 10
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
הִפִּ֥יל
fall
H5307
הִפִּ֥יל
fall
Strong's:
H5307
Word #:
7 of 10
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
מִכָּל
H3605
מִכָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Genesis 39:2And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.1 Samuel 9:6And he said unto him, Behold now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; all that he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go.1 Kings 8:56Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant.Luke 2:52And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.1 Samuel 2:21And the LORD visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the LORD.2 Timothy 4:22The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.2 Corinthians 13:11Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.Luke 2:40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.Isaiah 43:2When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.2 Corinthians 13:14The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.
Historical Context
The test of prophetic authenticity in Deuteronomy 18:21-22 requires that prophecies come true. The phrase 'words falling to the ground' pictures failed prophecies collapsing without effect. Samuel's words stand and accomplish their purpose.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the fulfillment of prophetic words authenticate divine calling?
- What does it mean for God's presence to be 'with' a person in their ministry?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Samuel's growth now takes on prophetic dimensions: 'the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.' The phrase indicates that everything Samuel prophesied came true - a key test of prophetic authenticity (Deuteronomy 18:22). The LORD's presence 'with him' contrasts with the departed glory that will mark Eli's house. Samuel's words are effective because God's Spirit empowers them. The boy who did not know the LORD now speaks words that the LORD consistently fulfills.