It is a powerful testimony of family unity and faith in God’s sovereign plan.
Elkanah’s gentle leadership toward Hannah is clearly shown when he says, “Do what seems best to you. Remain until you have weaned him; only may the LORD confirm His word.” So the woman remained and nursed her son until she weaned him (1 Samuel 1:23). With these words, Elkanah entrusts Hannah to care for their son, Samuel, according to her maternal wisdom and the vow she made before the LORD. Hannah, wholeheartedly devoted to fulfilling her promise to God, commits her time to ensuring Samuel is fully nurtured before bringing him to the house of the LORD to serve. Elkanah’s statement underscores his faith in the LORD’s sovereignty, acknowledging that God’s word stands firm and should guide every step. This narrative takes place in the tribal territory of Ephraim, specifically at Ramathaim-zophim (1 Samuel 1:1), a region located in the hill country north of Jerusalem. Historically, Elkanah and Hannah would have lived sometime around the late 11th century BC, an era transitioning between the time of the judges (such as Samson in Judges 13-16) and the establishment of Israel’s monarchy (with Saul, then David).
From a historical standpoint, Elkanah’s role as the husband and supporter of Hannah reveals a family dynamic that trusts in divine promises. Hannah’s vow was to dedicate Samuel entirely to the LORD, a vow rooted in deep faith (1 Samuel 1:11). Elkanah’s affirmation, “only may the LORD confirm His word” (v.23), aligns their family life around God’s covenant faithfulness. This setting is crucial, for Samuel will become the last judge of Israel and the prophet who anoints the first two kings (Saul and David). Later biblical connections point us to Mary, mother of Jesus, who also celebrated God’s faithfulness in Luke 1, reminding us that God continues to work through faithful devotion in everyday life (Luke 1:46-55).
This passage highlights the harmony of family support and spiritual dedication in the unfolding plan of God.
Hannah’s commitment and Elkanah’s trust in God’s promises laid the groundwork for Samuel’s service as a pivotal leader in Israel’s history.
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1 Samuel 1:23 meaning
Elkanah’s gentle leadership toward Hannah is clearly shown when he says, “Do what seems best to you. Remain until you have weaned him; only may the LORD confirm His word.” So the woman remained and nursed her son until she weaned him (1 Samuel 1:23). With these words, Elkanah entrusts Hannah to care for their son, Samuel, according to her maternal wisdom and the vow she made before the LORD. Hannah, wholeheartedly devoted to fulfilling her promise to God, commits her time to ensuring Samuel is fully nurtured before bringing him to the house of the LORD to serve. Elkanah’s statement underscores his faith in the LORD’s sovereignty, acknowledging that God’s word stands firm and should guide every step. This narrative takes place in the tribal territory of Ephraim, specifically at Ramathaim-zophim (1 Samuel 1:1), a region located in the hill country north of Jerusalem. Historically, Elkanah and Hannah would have lived sometime around the late 11th century BC, an era transitioning between the time of the judges (such as Samson in Judges 13-16) and the establishment of Israel’s monarchy (with Saul, then David).
From a historical standpoint, Elkanah’s role as the husband and supporter of Hannah reveals a family dynamic that trusts in divine promises. Hannah’s vow was to dedicate Samuel entirely to the LORD, a vow rooted in deep faith (1 Samuel 1:11). Elkanah’s affirmation, “only may the LORD confirm His word” (v.23), aligns their family life around God’s covenant faithfulness. This setting is crucial, for Samuel will become the last judge of Israel and the prophet who anoints the first two kings (Saul and David). Later biblical connections point us to Mary, mother of Jesus, who also celebrated God’s faithfulness in Luke 1, reminding us that God continues to work through faithful devotion in everyday life (Luke 1:46-55).
This passage highlights the harmony of family support and spiritual dedication in the unfolding plan of God.
Hannah’s commitment and Elkanah’s trust in God’s promises laid the groundwork for Samuel’s service as a pivotal leader in Israel’s history.