1 Samuel 1:14
And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee.
Original Language Analysis
עַד
H5704
עַד
Strong's:
H5704
Word #:
4 of 10
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
מָתַ֖י
H4970
מָתַ֖י
Strong's:
H4970
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, extent (of time); but used only adverbially (especially with other particle prefixes), when (either relative or interrogative)
תִּשְׁתַּכָּרִ֑ין
unto her How long wilt thou be drunken
H7937
תִּשְׁתַּכָּרִ֑ין
unto her How long wilt thou be drunken
Strong's:
H7937
Word #:
6 of 10
to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or (figuratively) influence
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Drunkenness at sacred feasts was apparently not unknown, given Eli's assumption. Later prophets would condemn priests who 'erred through wine' (Isaiah 28:7). The corruption at Shiloh may have normalized behaviors that made Eli's assumption plausible.
Questions for Reflection
- How can spiritual leaders develop and maintain discernment to recognize genuine faith?
- What warning does Eli's mistake offer about judging others' spiritual practices?
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Analysis & Commentary
Eli's rebuke reveals his spiritual decline - the high priest of Israel could not distinguish fervent prayer from drunkenness. His demand to 'put away thy wine' shows assumption of the worst without investigation. This failure of spiritual discernment foreshadows the greater failures that brought judgment on his house. The irony is devastating: the one charged with leading Israel's worship could not recognize genuine devotion when he saw it. Leaders who lose spiritual sensitivity become obstacles rather than aids to those seeking God.