1 Samuel 2:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 2:22
22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 2 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, salvation, love. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 2:22
22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
Analysis
Eli's advanced age coincides with full awareness of his sons' wickedness. He 'heard all that his sons did' - not rumors but confirmed reports of their comprehensive corruption. Their sin extends beyond sanctuary abuse to sexual exploitation: 'they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle.' These women may have been worship attendants (Exodus 38:8) or simply faithful worshipers. Either way, the priests corrupted the most sacred space for the basest purposes. Eli knows but takes inadequate action.
Historical Context
The 'women that assembled at the door' appear also in Exodus 38:8, where their mirrors provided bronze for the laver. Their service at the sanctuary entrance made them vulnerable to predatory priests. This sexual abuse violated both their persons and the holiness of the sanctuary.
Reflection
- How does knowledge of wrongdoing create responsibility for action?
- What does the sexual exploitation of worshipers reveal about the depth of the priests' corruption?
Cross-References
- Temple: Exodus 38:8