1 Samuel 2:18
But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
Original Language Analysis
מְשָׁרֵ֖ת
ministered
H8334
מְשָׁרֵ֖ת
ministered
Strong's:
H8334
Word #:
2 of 9
to attend as a menial or worshipper; figuratively, to contribute to
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
פְּנֵ֣י
before
H6440
פְּנֵ֣י
before
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 9
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 9
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
נַ֕עַר
being a child
H5288
נַ֕עַר
being a child
Strong's:
H5288
Word #:
6 of 9
(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit
Cross References
Exodus 28:4And these are the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.1 Samuel 3:1And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.1 Samuel 2:11And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto the LORD before Eli the priest.2 Samuel 6:14And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod.1 Samuel 22:18And the king said to Doeg, Turn thou, and fall upon the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell upon the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod.
Historical Context
The linen ephod was typically a priestly garment (Exodus 28:42; Leviticus 6:10), though a simpler version was worn by others in sacred service (2 Samuel 6:14). Samuel's wearing it indicates his consecrated status, even before he assumed formal prophetic office.
Questions for Reflection
- How does faithful service in youth prepare for greater responsibility?
- What does the contrast between Samuel and Eli's sons teach about character formation?
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Analysis & Commentary
The narrative deliberately juxtaposes the corruption of Eli's sons with Samuel's faithful service. 'But Samuel ministered before the LORD' presents sharp contrast. His 'linen ephod' - a priestly garment - indicates legitimate service even as a child. Where Hophni and Phinehas profaned their office, Samuel honored his. Where they exploited worshipers, he served the LORD. The word 'child' (na'ar) emphasizes his youth, making the contrast more striking. God is already preparing His replacement for the failed priesthood even while judgment approaches.