1 Samuel 1:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 1:28
28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 1 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, discipleship, 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 21-28: 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 1:28
28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
Analysis
The Hebrew verb sha'al (to ask/lend/dedicate) appears three times in this verse, creating profound wordplay. Hannah 'asked' for Samuel; now she 'lends' him to the LORD who will 'ask' for his service all his days. The term can mean either lending or dedicating - Hannah gives back what was always God's, recognizing that Samuel belonged to the LORD before he belonged to her. The closing phrase 'he worshipped the LORD there' likely refers to Eli or Samuel (or both), indicating proper response to this momentous dedication.
Historical Context
The concept of sha'al (to lend to God) appears only here in Scripture for human dedication. It emphasizes both the gift nature of Samuel (he was 'asked for') and Hannah's response (she 'asks back' by dedicating him). This reciprocal asking creates a covenant of gratitude.
Reflection
- How do you give back to God the very blessings He has given you?
- What does recognizing God's ownership of your gifts and relationships change about how you steward them?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 1:11
- Worship: Genesis 24:26, 24:52
- Parallel theme: 2 Timothy 3:15