Commentary on 1 Samuel 2:20

"And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The LORD give thee seed of this woman for the loan which is lent to the LORD. And they went unto their own home."

Contextual Background

This verse comes from a critical juncture in the narrative surrounding Hannah, Elkanah, and Eli, addressing themes of dedication and divine blessing. Hannah had fervently prayed for a child, vowing to dedicate her son to the Lord's service. Following the birth of Samuel, she honored her promise by presenting him to the Lord, thereby entering a divine covenant of sorts. This passage reflects the fulfillment of Hannah's desire and the reciprocating blessings from Elkanah and Eli.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry highlights Eli's role as a priest and spiritual leader who recognizes and acknowledges the divine favor bestowed upon Hannah and her husband, Elkanah. The act of blessing signifies a formal invocation of God's favor and a recognition of God's sovereignty in granting offspring, which was particularly significant given Hannah's previous barrenness.

• Divine Approval: Henry notes that Eli's blessing was more than a mere formal gesture; it represented God's approval and blessing over Hannah's faithfulness and sacrifice.
• Prayer and Dedication: The act of praying and the commitment to dedicate Samuel to the service of the Lord is underscored, showing the importance of prayer in the lives of believers.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Barnes elaborates on the significance of the phrase "the loan which is lent to the LORD." This implies a recognition that children are both a divine gift and a stewardship. The concept of children as loans suggest that parents are called to dedicate and raise their children in accordance with God’s will.

• The Concept of Loan: Barnes explains that the idea of children being a loan indicates the expectation of returns to God, which in spiritual terms translates to raising children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord.
• Reciprocal Blessing: Barnes emphasizes that Elkanah and Hannah’s gratitude towards God through Eli’s blessing reflects a reciprocal relationship inherent in divine gifts and human responsibilities.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke touches on the social and religious dimensions of Hannah’s granting of her son to Eli. He stresses that this act of dedication is not merely personal but culturally significant, emphasizing how it fulfills the expected devotion within the Israelite tradition.

• Cultural Significance: Clarke points out that this act of offering was in accordance with customs of the time, recognizing the community's role in upholding religious vows and practices.
• God’s Plan: Further, Clarke reflects on the overarching narrative of God’s plan through the life of Samuel, whose birth and dedication set a precedent for future leaders in Israel.

Theological Reflections

1 Samuel 2:20 not only emphasizes the themes of commitment to God and the blessings that follow such commitments but also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human action and divine will. Pastors, students, and theologians can reflect on the implications of this verse for contemporary parenting, ministry, and community life.

• Commitment to God: This verse invites reflection on our commitments to God and the importance of dedicating ourselves and our children to His service.
• Understanding Blessings: It challenges individuals to view blessings not merely as personal conveniences but as responsibilities to be shared within the community of faith.

Practical Applications

For modern readers, particularly those in pastoral roles, this verse serves as a blueprint for understanding the importance of dedicating children—both literally and metaphorically—to the ways of God. This can include the following:

• Dedicating Children: Encouraging regular dedication services, where parents affirm their commitment to raise their children in a God-centered environment.
• Community Support: Creating networks of support for parents, helping them navigate the challenges of raising children in faith.
• Spiritual Formation: Highlighting the significance of teaching and encouraging spiritual disciplines within family settings.

Conclusion

In considering 1 Samuel 2:20, one is drawn to the depth of divine-human interactions, the significance of prayer, and the blessings that flow from heartfelt dedication. This scripture not only concerns itself with the historical account of Hannah and Samuel but extends its implications to contemporary faith practice and community life.