Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

The verse 1 Samuel 1:23, which states, "And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the Lord establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him," serves as a crucial point in the narrative of Hannah's faith and obedience. This commentary aims to delve into the rich theological implications and practical lessons drawn from this passage using insights from renowned public domain scholars.

Contextual Analysis

The Book of 1 Samuel marks a critical transition in Israel's history from the period of the judges to the establishment of monarchy. Specific to 1 Samuel 1, the focus is on Hannah, a woman deeply troubled by her inability to conceive. Her earnest prayer for a child results in a vow to dedicate her son to the service of the Lord. This vow and its implications provide a backdrop to understanding 1 Samuel 1:23.

Hannah's Vow and Elkanah's Response

In this verse, we observe Elkanah's supportive role as a husband. His response reflects a significant partnership in their spiritual journey, which underscores the importance of mutual support in marital relationships. As Matthew Henry notes, Elkanah is portrayed with paternal wisdom, indicating that he respects Hannah’s spiritual commitments while also expressing the practical need to care for their child until he is weaned.

Albert Barnes comments on Elkanah’s assurance, emphasizing the need for patience in fulfilling Hannah's vow. He points out that the act of waiting for the weaning process is not merely a physical delay but a testament to Hannah's faithfulness and dedication to the Lord. Indeed, her commitment begins with the child’s early nurturing, which will prepare Samuel for his future role.

Theological Implications

This passage reveals significant theological themes. Firstly, it illustrates God's sovereignty in granting Hannah's request, which aligns with the broader biblical narrative where God often uses those who are marginalized or overlooked to achieve His divine purposes. As Adam Clarke asserts, the phrase "only the Lord establish his word" emphasizes that while mankind may make plans, it is ultimately God who brings to fruition His purposes and promises.

Furthermore, Hannah's vow acts as a foreshadowing of Samuel’s significant role in Israel's history. As this verse indicates, dedication to the Lord’s service begins in the home, thereby reinforcing the idea that parental responsibility extends beyond mere physical nourishment. It is fundamental to instill spiritual values and a sense of purpose in one’s children, a truth that resonates deeply with both pastors and congregants today.

Practical Lessons

The commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23 yields several practical lessons for contemporary readers:

• Commitment to Prayer: Hannah’s journey begins with earnest prayer. This serves as encouragement for individuals to engage deeply in their spiritual lives, believing that God hears and answers prayers according to His will.
• Supportive Relationships: The interaction between Hannah and Elkanah shows the importance of mutual support in marriage. Such partnerships are pivotal in fulfilling spiritual commitments.
• Importance of Dedication: The vow made by Hannah highlights the significance of dedicating one’s children to God’s service, reflecting the enduring value of spiritual legacy in families.
• Patience in Fulfillment: The waiting period before Hannah could fulfill her vow teaches the importance of patience in spiritual matters. God’s timing often differs from our expectations, and understanding this can deepen our faith.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Samuel 1:23 encapsulates vital lessons about faith, dedication, and the significance of family in nurturing spiritual commitments. As conveyed through insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, this verse stands as a testament to God’s provision and establishes foundational truths for believers today. It encourages pastors, students, and scholars to consider how these themes manifest in their own lives and ministry, ultimately challenging them to foster a deeper relationship with God, both individually and collectively within their communities.