Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:20

1 Samuel 1:20 states, "So it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, 'Because I have asked him of the Lord.'" This verse captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of 1 Samuel, focusing on the themes of prayer, divine intervention, and fulfillment of vows.

Context and Background

The book of 1 Samuel begins with a poignant story of Hannah, a woman who experienced deep personal sorrow due to her inability to conceive. Her grief reflects both her social status and spiritual journey. The importance of this narrative cannot be understated, as it provides not only historical context but also theological depth.

The Role of Prayer

• Desperation to Prayer: Hannah's fervent prayer in the temple, where she vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord’s service, demonstrates the biblical principle of seeking God in times of desperation. Matthew Henry emphasizes that her pursuit of the divine mirrors the psalms of lament, where heartfelt cries are offered to God in the midst of trouble.
• Importance of Faith: Adam Clarke notes that Hannah's faith is foundational in her narrative — she believed not only in her request but also in God's capacity to fulfill it. Her resolution marks a significant teaching point for believers regarding waiting on God’s timing.

Divine Intervention

In this verse, the culmination of Hannah's prayers is met with divine action. Albert Barnes highlights that God’s sovereignty is pivotal here, showing that He not only hears prayers but also acts according to His will. Samuel's birth is portrayed as a direct result of God responding to Hannah’s plea.

The Significance of the Name “Samuel”

The name "Samuel" is rich with meaning. It derives from the Hebrew *Shemu'el*, which is said to mean "asked of God." This name encapsulates the core of Hannah’s journey — her heartfelt request turned into a reality through faith. Henry comments on the importance of names in biblical text, suggesting that Samuel's name serves as a perpetual reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Theological Implications

This verse illustrates key theological concepts that resonate throughout Scripture:

• God's Faithfulness: The narrative affirms that God remains faithful to His promises. Hannah’s experience reinforces the belief that God rewards faith and perseverance, a theme echoed by Clarke in his commentary.
• God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs: Barnes reminds the reader that this event is not isolated; it forms part of God's larger plan for Israel. Samuel would later emerge as a prophet and leader, showing how divine plans often transcend individual circumstances.
• The Nature of Vows: Hannah’s vow to dedicate Samuel back to God prompts reflection on the nature of promises made to God. Each believer is challenged to consider their commitments seriously, as observed by Matthew Henry in his discussions on the duties that accompany answered prayers.

Lessons for Believers

This singular verse offers profound lessons for pastors, theologians, and scholars:

• Persistence in Prayer: Hannah's story is a model of persistence. It serves as an encouragement to maintain faith in prayerful endeavors, reminding believers of the importance of vocalizing their desires before the Lord.
• The Dynamics of Suffering: Hannah’s predicament sheds light on the broader topic of suffering and faith. Her pain leads to a transformative encounter with God, reminding believers that suffering can be a precursor to blessing.
• God’s Intended Purpose: Samuel’s birth signifies the unfolding of God’s purpose for Israel. This narrative invites scholars to delve deeper into the interconnectedness of individual lives within the larger narrative of redemption history.

Conclusion

The exploration of 1 Samuel 1:20, through the lenses of revered commentaries, unveils a rich tapestry woven with themes of divine providence, the power of prayer, and the faithfulness of God. This verse not only encapsulates Hannah’s journey but also informs a broader understanding of God’s methods in dealing with human concerns, offering a wellspring of insight for pastors, students, and scholars alike.