Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:19
Bible Verse: "Moreover his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice."
Overview
The verse encapsulates the heart of Hannah's devotion as a mother, illustrating the deep emotional and spiritual connection she maintains with her son, Samuel. Within this singular verse lies a tapestry of themes including familial love, commitment to God, and the significance of worship in Israel's narrative.
The Significance of the Coat
Matthew Henry notes that the act of making and bringing Samuel a coat each year signifies Hannah’s unfading love and her continual remembrance of her son. The coat is emblematic not only of maternal care but also of a legacy of faith. As a simple garment, it serves a dual purpose: it provides physical warmth and symbolizes the spiritual covering she provides through her ongoing prayers and devotion to God on Samuel's behalf.
Albert Barnes comments on this act as an indication of Hannah's commitment to her covenant with God. Having pledged her son to the Lord, she did not sever her emotional ties; rather, her annual visits to offer sacrifices became opportunities to renew their bond and fulfill her vow. The coat represents an enduring connection between Hannah and Samuel, reminding them both of her promise.
Yearly Remembrance and Worship
Adam Clarke emphasizes the religious connotation of Hannah's actions. Each year, when Hannah and Elkanah visited Shiloh for worship, it was a time for her to present her heartfelt offerings and to acknowledge the fulfillment of God’s promise through Samuel. Clarke argues that her act not only strengthened their familial relationship but also deepened Samuel’s understanding of his role as a servant of God. This nurturing was crucial as it cultivated Samuel’s identity amidst his calling.
The Role of Mothers in Spiritual Development
The passage underscores the vital role that mothers play in the spiritual development of their children. As Henry notes, Hannah not only nurtured Samuel physically but also instilled in him the principles of faithfulness and dedication. This ongoing teaching reflects a mother’s influence that extends beyond mere provision; it encompasses the transmission of values and the encouragement of a lifelong relationship with God.
Generational Faithfulness
There is an unmistakable thread of generational faithfulness in this verse. Hannah, an answered prayer herself, becomes a vessel through whom God's plans for Israel are furthered. Barnes highlights the importance of such legacies in familial structures, where the piety of one generation influences the next. Hannah’s devotion creates a fertile ground for Samuel to grow into a prophetic leader.
The Joy of Sacrificial Giving
Hannah’s act of making a coat and bringing it yearly can also be seen as an act of sacrificial giving. Clarke describes this act as a symbol of joy despite separation. While she had dedicated her child to God, she found joy in the act of giving, and her love was expressed through her sacrifice. The implication here is significant: true devotion often requires sacrifices, both large and small.
Conclusion
1 Samuel 2:19, while a small part of the larger biblical narrative, offers profound insights into themes of maternal love, devotion, and spiritual legacy. As seen through the perspectives of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, the verse encourages readers to reflect on their relationships with God and with one another. It also challenges parents and guardians to consider the impact of their faith and actions on the spiritual growth of their children. Ultimately, it reminds us that love and commitment to God can manifest in tangible ways, nurturing both individual faith and the spiritual heritage of families.
