1 Samuel 2:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 2:21
21 And the LORD visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the LORD.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 2 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, creation. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 2:21
21 And the LORD visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the LORD.
Analysis
The LORD's 'visiting' (paqad) Hannah indicates purposeful divine attention bringing blessing. This verb previously described God remembering Hannah (1:19) and now marks repeated blessing. Hannah bears three more sons and two daughters - five additional children beyond Samuel. Her womb, once closed, now produces abundantly. Meanwhile, Samuel 'grew before the LORD,' physically maturing while spiritually developing in God's presence. The parallel tracks of Hannah's fruitfulness and Samuel's growth demonstrate how God rewards faithfulness while preparing His servants.
Historical Context
The Hebrew paqad encompasses both gracious visitation (Genesis 21:1; Exodus 4:31) and judicial visitation (judgment). Here it clearly indicates blessing. Hannah's total of six children approaches the ideal completeness of seven, with Samuel counting as the one dedicated.
Reflection
- How has God 'visited' you with unexpected blessing after seasons of faithfulness?
- What parallel developments might God be accomplishing in different areas of your life simultaneously?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 2:26, 3:19, Genesis 21:1, Judges 13:24, Luke 1:68
- Parallel theme: Luke 1:80, 2:40, 2:52