1 Samuel 3:18

KJV

And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It [is] the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Samuel {H8050} told {H5046} him every whit {H1697}, and hid {H3582} nothing from him. And he said {H559}, It is the LORD {H3068}: let him do {H6213} what seemeth {H5869} him good {H2896}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So Sh'mu'el told him every word and hid nothing. 'Eli replied, "It is ADONAI; let him do what seems good to him."

Berean Standard Bible

So Samuel told him everything and did not hide a thing from him. “He is the LORD,” replied Eli. “Let Him do what is good in His eyes.”

American Standard Version

And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is Jehovah: let him do what seemeth him good.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This pivotal verse marks the culmination of young Samuel's inaugural prophetic encounter, where he faithfully relays God's severe judgment against the house of High Priest Eli. It powerfully underscores Samuel's unwavering integrity in delivering a difficult divine message without alteration, and Eli's profound, yet somber, submission to the sovereign will of the Lord, acknowledging the righteousness of God's decree despite its devastating implications for his family and the future of the priestly line.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic divine revelation to young Samuel in [1 Samuel 3](/1-samuel/3 "1 Samuel 3 - The Call of Samuel"). God had called Samuel multiple times, and with Eli's guidance, Samuel finally responded, "Speak, LORD, for your servant hears" ([1 Samuel 3:10](/1-samuel/3-10 "1 Samuel 3:10 - Samuel's Response to God's Call")). The message God delivered was a chilling confirmation and expansion of the judgment previously pronounced upon Eli's house by a "man of God" in [1 Samuel 2:27-36](/1-samuel/2-27-36 "1 Samuel 2:27-36 - Prophecy Against Eli's House"). Specifically, God declared that He would "perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house" ([1 Samuel 3:12](/1-samuel/3-12 "1 Samuel 3:12 - God's Judgment on Eli")). Samuel, a mere boy, was understandably hesitant and afraid to convey such devastating news to his mentor ([1 Samuel 3:15](/1-samuel/3-15 "1 Samuel 3:15 - Samuel's Fear to Tell Eli")), but Eli, sensing the gravity of the situation and perhaps the divine origin of Samuel's silence, pressed him to "hide nothing from me of all the things that he said to you" ([1 Samuel 3:17](/1-samuel/3-17 "1 Samuel 3:17 - Eli's Demand for the Truth")). Verse [1 Samuel 3:18](/1-samuel/3-18 "1 Samuel 3:18 - Samuel's Faithfulness and Eli's Submission") is Samuel's obedient response to Eli's demand, followed by Eli's profound acceptance of the divine decree, marking a pivotal transition in Israel's spiritual leadership.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This period in Israel's history, spanning the end of the Judges and the dawn of the monarchy, was characterized by profound spiritual decline and moral decay. The central religious institution, the tabernacle at Shiloh, was under the stewardship of High Priest Eli, whose family had become deeply corrupted. His sons, Hophni and Phinehas, flagrantly abused their priestly office, "despising the offering of the LORD" ([1 Samuel 2:17](/1-samuel/2-17 "1 Samuel 2:17 - Eli's Sons Despise the Lord's Offering")) and engaging in sexual immorality at the very entrance of the tabernacle ([1 Samuel 2:22](/1-samuel/2-22 "1 Samuel 2:22 - The Sins of Eli's Sons")). While Eli did rebuke them, his failure to "restrain them" ([1 Samuel 3:13](/1-samuel/3-13 "1 Samuel 3:13 - Eli's Failure to Restrain His Sons")) was viewed by God as honoring his sons more than God Himself ([1 Samuel 2:29](/1-samuel/2-29 "1 Samuel 2:29 - Eli's Disregard for God's Honor")). The cultural expectation for a father, especially a spiritual leader, to maintain order and uphold divine law was paramount. This context of profound spiritual crisis and failed leadership sets the stage for God's direct intervention and the raising up of a new, faithful prophet in Samuel, who would restore integrity to divine communication.

* **Key Themes:** Several profound themes converge in this verse. Firstly, it highlights **Prophetic Integrity and Obedience**, as Samuel, despite his youth and fear, faithfully delivers God's unvarnished message, establishing his credibility as a true prophet of the Lord, a stark contrast to the corrupt leadership of Eli's sons. Secondly, the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Justice** is powerfully affirmed by Eli's response, acknowledging that the judgment comes from the Lord, whose actions are inherently righteous and beyond human questioning, even when severe. This underscores God's absolute authority over human affairs and His commitment to covenant faithfulness, both in blessing and judgment ([Deuteronomy 32:39](/deuteronomy/32-39 "Deuteronomy 32:39 - God's Sovereignty Over Life and Death")). Thirdly, Eli's submission embodies **Humble Acceptance of God's Will**, demonstrating a deep, albeit imperfect, reverence for God's decree, even in the face of personal catastrophe. This acceptance, while not negating his past failures, reveals a fundamental trust in God's ultimate goodness and purpose. Finally, the entire narrative arc, culminating in this judgment, powerfully illustrates the **Consequences of Unfaithfulness and Neglect of Duty**, particularly for those in positions of spiritual leadership. Eli's failure to discipline his sons effectively leads to the severe judgment pronounced on his house, serving as a solemn warning against spiritual compromise and the neglect of one's God-given responsibilities ([Proverbs 29:15](/proverbs/29-15 "Proverbs 29:15 - The Rod and Reproof Give Wisdom")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **every whit (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This phrase translates the Hebrew word דָבָר (H1697, _dâbâr_), which means "a word," "a matter," or "a thing." Its use here emphasizes Samuel's absolute faithfulness in delivering the message without omission, distortion, or softening. He withheld nothing of the "matter" or "word" God had spoken, demonstrating complete transparency and integrity as God's messenger from the very outset of his prophetic ministry. This contrasts sharply with the partial and self-serving messages often delivered by false prophets or those who fear man more than God.
* **the LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** Eli's declaration, "It is the LORD," uses the sacred covenant name of God, יְהֹוָה (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), often transliterated as Yahweh or Jehovah. This is not a generic reference to a deity but a specific acknowledgment of the God of Israel, the self-Existent or Eternal One who made a covenant with Abraham, delivered Israel from Egypt, and established the Law. By using _Yᵉhôvâh_, Eli recognizes that this judgment is not an arbitrary misfortune but a righteous decree from the sovereign, covenant-keeping God who acts according to His character and promises. It signifies a recognition of divine authority, justice, and the inescapable nature of His decrees.
* **good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This word, טוֹב (H2896, _ṭôwb_), appears in the phrase "what seemeth him good," literally "what is good in His eyes." As an adjective, _ṭôwb_ signifies "good" in the widest sense, encompassing beauty, favor, prosperity, and moral goodness. Eli's use of this word, even in the face of devastating news, conveys his profound submission to God's will, recognizing that whatever God determines to do is, by definition, good and righteous from His perfect perspective. This is not a statement of passive resignation but an active acknowledgment of God's perfect wisdom and justice, even when His actions bring pain or judgment. It reflects a deep-seated theological understanding that God's actions are always just and ultimately for His glory, even if they are inscrutable or difficult for humans to comprehend.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him":** This opening clause highlights Samuel's immediate and complete obedience to God's call and Eli's urgent command. Despite his youth and the terrifying nature of the message—a prophecy of utter destruction for his mentor's family—Samuel demonstrates unwavering integrity. The repetition of "every whit" (meaning "every word" or "every detail") and "hid nothing" underscores the completeness of his disclosure, establishing him as a trustworthy and faithful prophet from the very beginning of his public ministry. This act of courage and honesty is foundational to his future role in Israel, distinguishing him from the compromised spiritual leadership of the time.
* **"And he said, It [is] the LORD":** Eli's response is one of profound, albeit somber, recognition. The phrase "It is the LORD" is a direct acknowledgment of the divine origin and supreme authority of the message. Eli does not question the source, nor does he attempt to deflect blame or negotiate. He immediately recognizes the hand of God in this pronouncement, understanding that the judgment is not a random event or a personal vendetta but a righteous act of the sovereign God of Israel, who holds all accountable, especially those in positions of spiritual leadership. This confession reveals a deep, underlying reverence for God despite his parental failings.
* **"let him do what seemeth him good":** This concluding phrase encapsulates Eli's humble submission to God's sovereign will. "What seemeth him good" (literally, "what is good in His eyes") signifies an acceptance that God's actions are always just, wise, and ultimately for His perfect purpose, even when they are severe and bring personal suffering. It reflects a theological understanding that God's goodness is not contingent on human comfort or immediate understanding but is inherent in His divine nature. Eli's words are a testament to his underlying reverence for God, despite his parental failings, and a model of submission to divine decree in the face of overwhelming personal tragedy.

#### Literary Devices
This verse, though brief, employs several powerful **literary devices**. The **contrast** between Samuel's initial fear (implied from [1 Samuel 3:15](/1-samuel/3-15 "1 Samuel 3:15 - Samuel's Fear to Tell Eli")) and his subsequent unwavering obedience ("told him every whit, and hid nothing") immediately establishes his prophetic integrity and sets him apart from the corrupt leadership of Eli's sons. Eli's response, "It is the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good," functions as a form of **acceptance** and **resignation**, yet it is imbued with a profound theological **acknowledgment of divine sovereignty**. The phrase "what seemeth him good" is an example of **euphemism** or **understatement**, as it refers to a devastating judgment with a phrase that emphasizes God's inherent goodness and wisdom, rather than the immediate pain it will cause. This highlights Eli's deep-seated reverence for God despite his personal failings. The entire interaction serves as a **pivot point** in the narrative, marking the end of Eli's era and the definitive beginning of Samuel's prophetic ministry, a transition underscored by the stark moral and spiritual differences between the old and new leadership. This moment also functions as a **foreshadowing** of Samuel's future role as a faithful mediator between God and Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse serves as a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty, human accountability, and the nature of prophetic ministry. Eli's acceptance, "It is the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good," echoes the sentiment of Job in his suffering, recognizing God's absolute right to act as He wills, and that His will is always ultimately good and just, even when it involves severe judgment. It underscores the biblical principle that God holds leaders to a higher standard, and their failures have far-reaching consequences, not only for themselves but for those they lead. Samuel's faithful delivery of the message, despite its difficulty, establishes the pattern for true prophetic ministry: speaking God's word completely and without compromise, regardless of personal cost or popular opinion. This commitment to truth-telling is a hallmark of all who faithfully represent God, demonstrating that divine revelation is not to be edited or softened for human comfort.

* [Job 1:21](/job/1-21 "Job 1:21 - Job's Submission to God's Sovereignty")
* [Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Thoughts and Ways Are Higher")
* [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Living and Active Word of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of Samuel and Eli in [1 Samuel 3](/1-samuel/3 "1 Samuel 3 - The Call of Samuel") provides enduring lessons for believers today. Samuel's courage in delivering an unpopular and painful truth reminds us of our call to speak God's word faithfully, whether in evangelism, discipleship, or confronting sin within the church or society. It requires integrity and a willingness to prioritize God's message over personal comfort or fear of rejection. We are called to be faithful stewards of the truth, not its editors. Eli's response, while born of consequence, offers a powerful model of submission to God's sovereign will. In moments of personal trial, loss, or when facing the difficult consequences of our own or others' actions, can we, like Eli, declare, "It is the LORD; let him do what seemeth him good"? This is not passive fatalism, but an active trust in God's ultimate goodness and wisdom, even when His ways are inscrutable or painful. For those in leadership, especially spiritual leadership, the passage serves as a sobering reminder of the profound responsibility to honor God above all else, to diligently steward His truth, and to discipline those under one's care. Neglecting these duties can lead to severe consequences, not only for individuals but for entire communities, highlighting the weighty accountability that comes with spiritual authority.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you struggling to fully submit to God's will, especially when it is difficult or contrary to your desires?**
* **How can you cultivate greater courage and integrity to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or challenging, imitating Samuel's faithfulness?**
* **If you are in a position of leadership, what lessons does Eli's failure and subsequent submission offer regarding accountability and the importance of honoring God in your role?**

### FAQ
**Why was Eli's failure to restrain his sons considered such a severe sin by God?**

Answer: Eli's sin was primarily one of neglect and dishonor towards God. While he verbally rebuked his sons, he failed to take decisive action to remove them from their priestly office or to discipline them effectively, allowing their egregious sins to continue unchecked within the sacred precincts of the tabernacle. God explicitly states that Eli "honored your sons above me" ([1 Samuel 2:29](/1-samuel/2-29 "1 Samuel 2:29 - Eli's Disregard for God's Honor")). As the High Priest, Eli was responsible for upholding the sanctity of God's worship and the moral order of Israel. His inaction compromised God's glory, brought contempt upon the sacrifices, and corrupted the spiritual life of the nation. This neglect of duty, especially from a spiritual leader, was a profound breach of his covenant responsibilities, leading to the severe judgment pronounced upon his house.

**Does Eli's response, "let him do what seemeth him good," imply fatalism or true submission?**

Answer: While it might sound like passive resignation, Eli's response is best understood as a profound act of submission rooted in his theological understanding of God's sovereignty. It's not a passive "whatever happens, happens" but an active acknowledgment that the Lord is righteous and just in all His dealings, even when His actions are severe. Eli recognizes that God's judgment is deserved and that God's ways are inherently good ("what seemeth him good" – literally, "what is good in His eyes"), even if they are painful for him. This echoes the sentiment found in [Job 1:21](/job/1-21 "Job 1:21 - Job's Submission to God's Sovereignty"), where Job declares, "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." It demonstrates a deep, albeit imperfect, reverence for God's ultimate authority and wisdom, accepting His divine prerogative.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Samuel's prophetic calling and Eli's submission in [1 Samuel 3](/1-samuel/3 "1 Samuel 3 - The Call of Samuel") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Samuel, as the faithful prophet who speaks God's "every whit" without compromise, foreshadows Christ, the ultimate Prophet who perfectly revealed the Father and spoke only what He heard from God ([John 12:49-50](/john/12-49-50 "John 12:49-50 - Jesus Speaks God's Words")). Unlike Eli's sons, who corrupted the priesthood and brought contempt upon God's sacrifices, Jesus is the perfect High Priest, "holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens" ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - Jesus, Our Perfect High Priest")), who offered Himself as the spotless, once-for-all sacrifice, thereby fulfilling and transcending the Levitical system. Eli's somber submission to God's will, "let him do what seemeth him good," finds its most profound and agonizing expression in Gethsemane, where Jesus, facing the ultimate judgment for humanity's sin, prayed, "Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done" ([Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Jesus Submits to God's Will")). While Eli's house faced judgment for unfaithfulness, Christ, though innocent, bore the judgment for our unfaithfulness, becoming the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Thus, this Old Testament account, with its themes of divine judgment, prophetic faithfulness, and humble obedience, points forward to the greater Prophet and High Priest who perfectly embodied God's will and bore its full weight for our redemption.

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

Isaiah 39:8

Then said Hezekiah to Isaiah, Good [is] the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. He said moreover, For there shall be peace and truth in my days.

Job 2:10

But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

1 Peter 5:6

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Judges 10:15

And the children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do thou unto us whatsoever seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, this day.

Psalms 39:9

I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst [it].

Lamentations 3:39

Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins?

Job 1:21

And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.