1 Samuel 1:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 1:3
3 And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 1 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, judgment. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 1:3
3 And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there.
Analysis
Elkanah's faithfulness in annual pilgrimage to Shiloh demonstrates covenant fidelity amid spiritual decline. The title 'LORD of hosts' (Yahweh Sabaoth) appears here for the first time in Scripture, emphasizing God's sovereign command over heavenly armies. The ominous mention of Eli's sons Hophni and Phinehas foreshadows coming judgment. Despite the corruption of the priesthood, faithful Israelites like Elkanah continued to worship, illustrating that institutional failure does not excuse personal disobedience.
Historical Context
The three annual pilgrimages (Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles) were required by Mosaic law (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16). Shiloh, located in the hill country of Ephraim, served as Israel's central sanctuary for approximately 300 years before its destruction by the Philistines around 1050 BCE.
Reflection
- How should believers maintain personal faithfulness when religious institutions become corrupt?
- What does Elkanah's persistent obedience teach about worship regardless of circumstances?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2076 - Sacrifice, offering
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 1:9, Exodus 34:23, Deuteronomy 16:16
- Sacrifice: 1 Samuel 1:21
- Parallel theme: Exodus 23:14, Joshua 18:1, Judges 18:31, Luke 2:41