1 Samuel 1:22

KJV

But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, [I will not go up] until the child be weaned, and [then] I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD, and there abide for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

But Hannah {H2584} went not up {H5927}; for she said {H559} unto her husband {H376}, I will not go up until the child {H5288} be weaned {H1580}, and then I will bring {H935} him, that he may appear {H7200} before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}, and there abide {H3427} for {H5704} ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But Hannah did not go up, explaining to her husband, "Not till the child has been weaned. Then I will bring him, so that he can appear before ADONAI and live there forever."

Berean Standard Bible

but Hannah did not go. “After the boy is weaned,” she said to her husband, “I will take him to appear before the LORD and to stay there permanently.”

American Standard Version

But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, I will not go up until the child be weaned; and then I will bring him, that he may appear before Jehovah, and there abide for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 1:22 encapsulates Hannah's unwavering resolve to fulfill her solemn vow to the Lord concerning her son, Samuel. Having finally conceived and given birth after years of barrenness, Hannah defers her annual pilgrimage to Shiloh, explaining to her husband Elkanah that she will wait until Samuel is fully weaned. Her profound intention is to then bring him to the Tabernacle to appear before the LORD and abide there permanently, demonstrating deep faith, integrity, and a sacrificial commitment to her spiritual obligation, prioritizing her divine promise above immediate family traditions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a pivotal moment in the narrative of 1 Samuel, immediately following the miraculous birth of Samuel, which was a direct answer to Hannah's fervent prayer and solemn vow recorded in [1 Samuel 1:11](/1_samuel/1-11 "1 Samuel 1:11 - Hannah's Vow and Prayer for a Son"). The preceding verses detail the annual pilgrimage of Elkanah's family to Shiloh to offer sacrifices, a tradition that starkly highlights Hannah's barrenness and profound distress. Samuel's birth marks a dramatic shift, fulfilling God's promise and vindicating Hannah. Verse 22 then reveals Hannah's steadfast commitment to the second, equally crucial, part of her vow: dedicating her son to the Lord. This decision sets the stage for Samuel's unique upbringing under Eli in the Tabernacle, as detailed in [1 Samuel 2:11](/1_samuel/2-11 "1 Samuel 2:11 - Samuel Serving the Lord"), and establishes the foundational context for his future prophetic and judicial ministry, which will profoundly shape the history of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Shiloh, which served as the central place of worship for Israel during the period of the Judges, prior to the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Here, the Tabernacle, housing the Ark of the Covenant, functioned as the focal point for national religious life and annual pilgrimages. Such pilgrimages, like the one Elkanah's family undertook, were customary for offering sacrifices and fulfilling vows, often mandated by Mosaic Law. The practice of "weaning" (Hebrew: _gamal_) in ancient Israel was a significant cultural and developmental event, typically lasting much longer than in modern Western societies, often two to three years, or even longer, up to five years. This extended period ensured the child was physically robust and emotionally mature enough to be separated from the mother and to begin a more independent life. Hannah's decision to wait until Samuel was fully weaned underscores her thoughtful and deliberate approach, ensuring the child's readiness for such a profound and permanent transition into lifelong service at the Tabernacle.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes found throughout [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Book of Samuel") and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the **Fulfillment of Vows**, showcasing Hannah's unwavering integrity in honoring her promise to God, even when it meant sacrificing her long-awaited and only son. This commitment stands in stark contrast to the later unfaithfulness of Eli's sons, highlighting the critical importance of covenant fidelity and personal integrity before God, a principle echoed in passages like [Numbers 30:2](/numbers/30-2 "Numbers 30:2 - The Binding Nature of Vows"). Another key theme is **Parental Dedication and Surrender**, where Hannah's profound love for Samuel is expressed not by clinging to him, but by willingly entrusting him back to the Lord who gave him. This models a radical form of surrender and trust, prefiguring the ideal of dedicating one's "firstfruits" or "best" to God, a principle found throughout the Mosaic Law and exemplified in the dedication of the firstborn in [Exodus 13:2](/exodus/13-2 "Exodus 13:2 - Consecration of the Firstborn"). Finally, the concept of **Lifelong Service to God** is central, as Samuel is to "abide for ever" before the Lord. This permanent commitment sets Samuel apart for a unique and pivotal role in Israel's history, emphasizing that true devotion involves an enduring and continuous offering of one's life to divine purposes, a concept also seen in the dedication of Nazirites in [Numbers 6](/numbers/6 "Numbers 6 - The Law of the Nazirite").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Weaned (Hebrew, גָּמַל, _gâmal'_):** From H1580, this primitive root signifies "to treat a person (well or ill), i.e. benefit or requite; by implication (of toil), to ripen, i.e. (specifically) to wean." In this context, it refers to the completion of the nursing period, a significant and often extended milestone in ancient Israelite child-rearing. Hannah's choice to wait until Samuel was fully weaned indicates her wisdom and prudence, ensuring the child was physically robust enough and emotionally ready for the profound transition from his mother's constant care to the structured, independent environment of the Tabernacle under Eli. It also underscores the depth of her commitment, as she was not making a hasty decision but a carefully considered one that prioritized the child's well-being and the full integrity of her vow.
* **Appear (Hebrew, רָאָה, _râʼâh'_):** From H7200, this primitive root means "to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)." The phrase "appear before the LORD" (לְהֵרָאֹת אֶת־פְּנֵי יְהוָה, _l'hera'ot et-p'nei YHWH_) uses the Niphal stem of _râʼâh_, meaning "to be seen" or "to present oneself." This is a technical term for formally presenting oneself for worship or service in the Tabernacle or Temple. It implies a solemn presentation and dedication, signifying Samuel's formal entrance into the sacred space and his initiation into the service of God. It highlights the sacred and official nature of Hannah's vow and the act of dedication, marking a profound transition for Samuel.
* **Abide (Hebrew, יָשַׁב, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, this primitive root properly means "to sit down (specifically as judge, in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry." In the context of Samuel's dedication, "there abide" signifies a permanent, continuous dwelling and service. This is not a temporary visit or a short-term offering, but a lifelong commitment to reside and serve in the Tabernacle. It emphasizes the absolute and enduring nature of Hannah's offering and Samuel's subsequent role in the Tabernacle, differentiating it from temporary offerings or vows.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband":** This opening clause highlights Hannah's distinct and deliberate decision to deviate from the family's annual pilgrimage to Shiloh. It emphasizes her personal resolve and the direct communication of her intention to Elkanah, setting her apart and demonstrating a singular, unwavering focus on the fulfillment of her vow.
* **"[I will not go up] until the child be weaned":** This specifies the crucial condition and timing of her eventual journey to Shiloh. Her decision to wait for Samuel to be fully weaned indicates a practical, compassionate, and wise approach, ensuring the child's physical well-being and emotional readiness for separation, while also affirming her commitment to the long-term and complete fulfillment of her promise.
* **"and [then] I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD":** This clause articulates the profound purpose of her future journey. It is not merely a visit, but a formal presentation and solemn dedication of Samuel to God's service at the Tabernacle. The phrase "appear before the LORD" underscores the sacred, official, and covenantal nature of this act, signifying the complete fulfillment of her vow.
* **"and there abide for ever":** This final phrase clarifies the duration and permanence of Samuel's dedication. He is not being offered for a temporary period, but for his entire life, signifying a complete, continuous, and irreversible commitment to serving God in the Tabernacle. This lifelong service distinguishes Samuel's dedication as a unique and profound act of devotion, setting the stage for his pivotal role in Israel's history.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enrich its meaning and foreshadow future events. **Foreshadowing** is prominently evident, as Hannah's declaration that Samuel will "abide for ever" before the Lord directly anticipates his future role as a lifelong prophet, priest, and judge who serves God faithfully from his youth, as detailed in [1 Samuel 3](/1_samuel/3 "1 Samuel 3 - The Lord Calls Samuel"). There is a profound **Irony** in the fact that the woman who was once barren and desperate for a child is now willingly giving her long-awaited son back to God, highlighting the depth of her faith and the transformative power of divine grace that enables such radical surrender. Furthermore, the act of **Weaning** itself functions as powerful **Symbolism** of transition, maturity, and separation. It marks the physiological and psychological shift from complete dependence on the mother to a readiness for a new phase of life and service, symbolizing Samuel's preparation for his unique calling and the profound separation required for his dedication to God's exclusive service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hannah's unwavering commitment to her vow in 1 Samuel 1:22 resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on covenant faithfulness and the sanctity of promises made to God. Her dedication of Samuel is not merely a personal act but embodies a profound theological principle: that all blessings, especially children, are gifts from the Lord, and true devotion involves offering back to Him that which He has given. This act prefigures the concept of offering one's "firstfruits" or "best" to God, demonstrating a heart of gratitude and trust that recognizes God's ultimate ownership and sovereignty. It also highlights the transformative power of prayer and the critical importance of following through on spiritual commitments, even when they demand significant personal sacrifice. Hannah's example serves as a timeless model of prioritizing divine obligations over personal desires, trusting that God will honor such faithfulness and use even the most sacrificial acts for His greater purposes.

* [Numbers 30:2](/numbers/30-2 "Numbers 30:2 - The Binding Nature of Vows"): "If a man vows a vow to the LORD, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth."
* [Ecclesiastes 5:4-5](/ecclesiastes/5-4-5 "Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 - Fulfilling Vows to God"): "When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow. It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay."
* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching Children God's Commands"): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hannah's decision in 1 Samuel 1:22 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine the depth of our own commitment and surrender to God. Her patient and deliberate approach to fulfilling her vow, waiting until Samuel was fully ready before releasing him for lifelong service, reminds us of the importance of thoughtful and prayerful commitment in our spiritual lives. In a world that often prioritizes immediate gratification, personal comfort, and self-preservation, Hannah's willingness to give back her most longed-for possession challenges us to consider the extent of our own dedication to God. Are we willing to surrender our most precious possessions—our time, our talents, our resources, our ambitions, or even our children—to God's purposes, trusting His sovereign plan and perfect timing? Her story encourages us to honor our commitments to God, whether they are vows made in fervent prayer, promises to serve, or decisions to follow His leading. It underscores that true faith is demonstrated not just in asking and receiving, but in giving back sacrificially, and in patiently trusting God's timing for the unfolding of His will in our lives and the lives of those we love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What vows or significant commitments have I made to God, and how faithfully am I pursuing their fulfillment?**
* **In what areas of my life am I being called to a greater level of dedication or surrender to God's purposes, even if it involves personal sacrifice?**
* **How can Hannah's patient and deliberate approach to fulfilling her vow inform my own decision-making process in spiritual matters, especially regarding long-term commitments?**
* **What "precious possessions" (e.g., time, talents, resources, relationships, aspirations) might God be asking me to release for His service, and what might that look like practically in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**How long did weaning typically last in ancient Israel, and why was it significant?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, the weaning period typically lasted much longer than in many modern cultures, often extending for two to three years, and sometimes even longer, up to five years. This extended period was significant for several reasons. Physiologically, it ensured the child had developed a robust immune system and was physically strong enough to transition from breast milk to solid foods. Culturally and psychologically, it marked a major developmental milestone, signifying the child's increasing independence and readiness for formal training and integration into the broader community. For Hannah, waiting until Samuel was fully weaned was a practical and compassionate decision, ensuring he was mature enough for the significant transition of living at the Tabernacle, away from his mother's constant care, and ready to begin his lifelong service to the Lord, as described in [1 Samuel 1:22](/1_samuel/1-22 "1 Samuel 1:22 - Hannah's Vow to Dedicate Samuel").

**What does "abide for ever" truly mean in the context of Samuel's dedication?**

Answer: The phrase "abide for ever" (Hebrew: _'olam_) in [1 Samuel 1:22](/1_samuel/1-22 "1 Samuel 1:22 - Hannah's Vow to Dedicate Samuel") signifies a permanent, lifelong dedication. While _'olam_ can sometimes mean "for a long time" or "for an age," in this specific context, coupled with Hannah's solemn vow and the act of presenting Samuel to serve before the Lord, it clearly denotes an enduring, continuous commitment for the entirety of Samuel's life. This was not a temporary offering or a short-term service, but a complete and irreversible giving of Samuel to God's service at the Tabernacle. This understanding is confirmed by Samuel's subsequent life, where he indeed served the Lord continuously from his youth into old age, becoming a prophet, priest, and judge for Israel, as seen throughout the book of [1 Samuel](/1_samuel/1 "1 Samuel - The Book of Samuel").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hannah's profound act of dedicating Samuel "to abide for ever" before the Lord in [1 Samuel 1:22](/1_samuel/1-22 "1 Samuel 1:22 - Hannah's Vow to Dedicate Samuel") finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Samuel, set apart from birth and dedicated for lifelong service, serves as a type, foreshadowing the perfect Son who was eternally dedicated to the will of the Father. While Samuel was given by a mother who fulfilled a vow, Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), willingly offered Himself, not merely for service in a tabernacle or temple, but as the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice for the sins of humanity. His entire life, from His incarnation to His crucifixion and resurrection, was an embodiment of permanent, unwavering dedication to God's redemptive plan. The author of Hebrews speaks of Christ entering the world saying, "[Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body have you prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God, as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’](/hebrews/10-5-7 "Hebrews 10:5-7 - Christ's Willing Sacrifice")" This perfectly encapsulates the "abide for ever" principle, as Christ's obedience was not for a season but for eternity, establishing a new covenant that lasts forever. Our own dedication as believers, then, is not merely to a physical temple or a temporary service, but to Christ Himself, as we are called to present our bodies as a "[living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice")," a spiritual act of worship that mirrors the ultimate self-giving of our Savior, who "[humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - The Humility of Christ")" for our eternal benefit.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 1:11

And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.

1 Samuel 1:28

Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.

Luke 2:22

And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present [him] to the Lord;

1 Samuel 2:11

¶ And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto the LORD before Eli the priest.

1 Samuel 2:18

But Samuel ministered before the LORD, [being] a child, girded with a linen ephod.

1 Samuel 3:1

¶ And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; [there was] no open vision.

Luke 2:41

¶ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.