1 Samuel 1:24

KJV

And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child [was] young.

KJV (with Strong's)

And when she had weaned {H1580} him, she took him up {H5927} with her, with three {H7969} bullocks {H6499}, and one {H259} ephah {H374} of flour {H7058}, and a bottle {H5035} of wine {H3196}, and brought {H935} him unto the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068} in Shiloh {H7887}: and the child {H5288} was young {H5288}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After weaning him, she took him up with her, along with three young bulls, a bushel of flour and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of ADONAI in Shiloh, even though he was just a child.

Berean Standard Bible

Once she had weaned him, Hannah took the boy with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine. Though the boy was still young, she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh.

American Standard Version

And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of meal, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of Jehovah in Shiloh: and the child was young.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 1:24 marks the faithful fulfillment of Hannah's solemn vow to the Lord. Having earnestly prayed for a son and promised to dedicate him to God's service, Hannah, upon weaning her young child Samuel, brought him to the central sanctuary at Shiloh. Accompanied by a substantial offering of three bullocks, an ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, this act signifies her profound devotion, integrity, and costly sacrifice in consecrating her most precious gift back to the Giver of life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic moment in Hannah's personal narrative, which begins with her barrenness and deep distress ([1 Samuel 1:1-8](/1_samuel/1-1 "1 Samuel 1:1-8 - Hannah's Distress")). Her fervent prayer and vow to dedicate any son born to her for lifelong service to God are recorded in [1 Samuel 1:9-11](/1_samuel/1-9 "1 Samuel 1:9-11 - Hannah's Prayer and Vow"). The subsequent birth of Samuel, a direct answer to her prayer, is recounted in [1 Samuel 1:19-20](/1_samuel/1-19 "1 Samuel 1:19-20 - Birth of Samuel"). Verse 24, therefore, represents the culmination of her promise, initiating Samuel's transition from her care to the service of the Lord at the tabernacle, setting the stage for his prophetic and judicial ministry that will shape Israel's future. It also contrasts Hannah's faithfulness with the corrupt priesthood of Eli's sons, foreshadowing the need for a new spiritual leader.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, children were typically weaned between the ages of two and three years old, marking a significant developmental milestone when a child was considered ready for more independent life. Shiloh served as the central place of worship for Israel during the period of the Judges, housing the tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant, making it the most sacred site for national worship and pilgrimage, as seen in [1 Samuel 1:3](/1_samuel/1-3 "1 Samuel 1:3 - Elkanah's Annual Pilgrimage to Shiloh"). The accompanying offering of three bullocks, an ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine was exceptionally generous, far exceeding the requirements for a standard burnt offering or peace offering (cf. [Leviticus 1:3-17](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - Burnt Offerings") for typical offerings). This substantial provision underscores the magnitude of Hannah's vow and the depth of her commitment, signifying a complete and costly dedication to the Lord.

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully illustrates several core themes. Foremost is the theme of **vow fulfillment** and **covenant faithfulness**, as Hannah meticulously honors the promise she made to God in her distress, demonstrating integrity and unwavering devotion (cf. [Deuteronomy 23:21](/deuteronomy/23-21 "Deuteronomy 23:21 - Fulfilling Vows")). It also highlights **parental dedication** and **consecration**, as Hannah dedicates her most precious gift, her son, back to the Lord for lifelong service. This act is a profound example of **sacrifice**, not only of her child but also of the significant material provisions, emphasizing that true devotion often involves costly giving. Furthermore, the journey to Shiloh underscores the importance of **worship** and **communion with God** at the designated sacred space, bringing Samuel into the heart of Israelite religious life and preparing him for his unique role in God's redemptive plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Weaned (Hebrew, _gamal'_):** This verb signifies "to deal fully with," "to complete," or "to ripen." In the context of a child, it refers to the completion of the nursing period, typically around 2-3 years of age. It implies a transition from complete dependence on the mother's milk to a readiness for solid food and greater independence. For Samuel, it marked the appropriate age for his formal dedication and transition into the service of the Lord, signifying a completed stage of early childhood.
* **Shiloh (Hebrew, _Shiloh'_):** This was the central sanctuary of Israel during the period of the Judges, where the tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant resided (cf. [Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - The Tabernacle at Shiloh")). Its name is sometimes associated with "rest" or "peace," but in this context, it functions as the designated place of divine presence and worship. Bringing Samuel to Shiloh meant placing him directly into the spiritual heart of the nation, under the direct care and tutelage of the high priest.
* **Young (Hebrew, _na'ar'_):** This term describes a boy or youth, emphasizing Samuel's tender age. While "weaned" suggests a certain level of maturity for his age, "young" reiterates his vulnerability and Hannah's immense sacrifice. It highlights that Samuel was dedicated to God from his earliest possible stage of independent life, underscoring the depth of Hannah's commitment and the extraordinary nature of his calling.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when she had weaned him":** This phrase establishes the timing of Hannah's action, indicating that she waited until Samuel reached a culturally appropriate age for separation from his mother's constant care. It signifies the fulfillment of her promise was not impulsive but deliberate and timed according to custom.
* **"she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine":** This describes the journey and the substantial offering Hannah brought. The "three bullocks" (likely one for a burnt offering, one for a peace offering, and one possibly as a special vow offering or for the priests' sustenance), "one ephah of flour" (a significant measure for grain offerings), and "a bottle of wine" (for drink offerings) collectively represent a lavish and costly sacrifice. This generosity underscores the magnitude of her vow and the depth of her gratitude and devotion to God.
* **"and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh":** This specifies the destination and the purpose of the journey. "The house of the LORD" refers to the tabernacle, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Bringing Samuel there was the physical act of dedicating him to lifelong service, fulfilling the terms of her vow made in [1 Samuel 1:11](/1_samuel/1-11 "1 Samuel 1:11 - Hannah's Vow").
* **"and the child [was] young":** This concluding clause emphasizes Samuel's tender age, reiterating the profound nature of Hannah's sacrifice. Despite his youth, he was entrusted to the care of Eli and the service of the Lord, highlighting the extraordinary circumstances of his dedication and foreshadowing his unique role in Israel's history.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Symbolism** is prominent in the lavish offering Hannah brings; the three bullocks, ephah of flour, and bottle of wine are not merely provisions but symbolize the completeness and costliness of her dedication. This generous gift represents her profound gratitude and the immense value she placed on her vow and on Samuel himself, given back to the Giver. The phrase "the child was young" serves as a subtle form of **pathos**, evoking sympathy for Hannah's emotional sacrifice and emphasizing the extraordinary nature of giving up her long-awaited son at such a tender age. Furthermore, the entire act of dedication at Shiloh functions as **foreshadowing**, hinting at Samuel's future pivotal role as a prophet and judge, a servant of the Lord from his earliest days, setting the stage for the subsequent narrative of his life and ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 1:24 stands as a powerful testament to the theological principle of vow fulfillment and the profound nature of dedication to God. Hannah's unwavering commitment to her promise, even when it involved the costly sacrifice of her beloved son, exemplifies true faith and integrity. This act underscores that genuine devotion to God often requires surrendering our most cherished possessions or aspirations, trusting that His purposes are greater than our own desires. It also highlights God's faithfulness in answering prayer and His sovereign plan to raise up faithful servants, even from unexpected circumstances. The dedication of Samuel foreshadows a pattern of divine election and preparation for those called to serve His kingdom.

* [Deuteronomy 23:21](/deuteronomy/23-21 "Deuteronomy 23:21 - Fulfilling Vows to the LORD")
* [Proverbs 22:6](/proverbs/22-6 "Proverbs 22:6 - Training Up a Child")
* [Luke 2:22-24](/luke/2-22 "Luke 2:22-24 - Presentation of Jesus in the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hannah's journey to Shiloh with Samuel offers a profound model for contemporary believers regarding faithfulness, sacrifice, and parental dedication. Her unwavering commitment to her vow, despite the emotional cost of separating from her young child, challenges us to examine the integrity of our own promises, particularly those made to God. What vows or commitments have we made, perhaps in moments of desperation or gratitude, that we have yet to fully honor? This passage also speaks powerfully to parents, calling them to consider how they are dedicating their children to the Lord, not necessarily through physical separation, but through intentional spiritual nurturing, prayer, and guiding them towards a life of service and devotion to God. True sacrifice, as exemplified by Hannah, is not about giving what is convenient, but what is costly and precious, trusting that God will honor our obedience and use our surrendered gifts for His greater glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What vows or commitments have I made to God that I need to faithfully fulfill?**
* **In what ways can I more intentionally dedicate my children (or the younger generation) to the Lord's service and spiritual growth?**
* **What "precious gifts" (time, talents, resources, relationships) might God be calling me to surrender or dedicate more fully to Him?**
* **How does Hannah's act of costly sacrifice inform my understanding of true worship and devotion?**

### FAQ
**How old was Samuel when Hannah brought him to Shiloh?**

Answer: While the Bible does not give an exact age, the phrase "when she had weaned him" (1 Samuel 1:24) strongly suggests Samuel was around two to three years old. In ancient Israelite culture, weaning was a significant milestone, marking the transition from infancy to early childhood, typically occurring at this age. This made him old enough to be separated from his mother for the purpose of living and serving at the tabernacle under Eli's care.

**Why did Hannah bring such a large offering with Samuel?**

Answer: Hannah's offering of three bullocks, an ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine was exceptionally generous, far exceeding the requirements for standard burnt or peace offerings (cf. [Leviticus 1](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1 - Burnt Offerings")). This substantial gift underscored the magnitude of her vow to God and the immense value she placed on Samuel, her long-awaited son, whom she was now dedicating for lifelong service. It symbolized the completeness and costliness of her sacrifice, demonstrating her profound gratitude and unwavering faithfulness to the Lord. It was a proper and respectful approach to God's house, fitting for such a significant dedication.

**What was the significance of Shiloh in this narrative?**

Answer: Shiloh was the central sanctuary for Israel during the period of the Judges, serving as the location of the tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant (cf. [Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - The Tabernacle at Shiloh")). It was the primary place of worship and pilgrimage for the nation. Bringing Samuel to "the house of the LORD in Shiloh" meant placing him directly into the spiritual heart of Israel, under the care of the high priest Eli, to begin his lifelong service to God. This location was crucial for Samuel's spiritual formation and his subsequent rise as a prophet and judge who would guide the nation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hannah's dedication of Samuel, her longed-for son, to the Lord at Shiloh, serves as a powerful Old Testament type and shadow of the ultimate dedication found in Jesus Christ. Just as Samuel was "lent" to the Lord for lifelong service (1 Samuel 1:28), Jesus, the Son of God, was perfectly consecrated and set apart for the Father's will from eternity. While Samuel's dedication was a human act of obedience, Christ's entire life was an embodiment of divine obedience and self-sacrifice. He did not merely serve in a tabernacle, but He *is* the true Temple of God (cf. [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Destroy This Temple")). The substantial offerings Hannah brought foreshadow the singular, perfect sacrifice of Christ, who offered Himself "once for all" as the spotless Lamb of God (cf. [Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Sacrifice Once for All"); [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Samuel's early dedication for the salvation and guidance of Israel points forward to Jesus, who, though "young" in His earthly ministry, perfectly fulfilled His Father's will, becoming the ultimate Deliverer and Shepherd of His people. His life, death, and resurrection represent the complete and perfect fulfillment of all dedication, obedience, and costly sacrifice, securing eternal redemption for all who believe (cf. [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")).

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

Numbers 15:9

Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.

Numbers 15:10

And thou shalt bring for a drink offering half an hin of wine, [for] an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

Joshua 18:1

¶ And the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the tabernacle of the congregation there. And the land was subdued before them.

1 Samuel 4:3

And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies.

1 Samuel 4:4

So the people sent to Shiloh, that they might bring from thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth [between] the cherubims: and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, [were] there with the ark of the covenant of God.

Deuteronomy 12:5

¶ But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, [even] unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

Deuteronomy 12:6

And thither ye shall bring your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, and your tithes, and heave offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstlings of your herds and of your flocks: