1 Samuel 3:8

And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here [am] I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child.

And the LORD {H3068} called {H7121} Samuel {H8050} again {H3254} the third time {H7992}. And he arose {H6965} and went {H3212} to Eli {H5941}, and said {H559}, Here am I; for thou didst call {H7121} me. And Eli {H5941} perceived {H995} that the LORD {H3068} had called {H7121} the child {H5288}.

ADONAI called, "Sh'mu'el!" again, a third time. He got up, went to 'Eli and said, "Here I am - you called me." At last 'Eli realized it was ADONAI calling the child.

Once again, for the third time, the LORD called to Samuel. He got up, went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” Then Eli realized that it was the LORD who was calling the boy.

And Jehovah called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And Eli perceived that Jehovah had called the child.

Commentary

1 Samuel 3:8 recounts a pivotal moment in the life of young Samuel and the spiritual history of Israel. This verse describes the third instance where the LORD calls Samuel by name, yet Samuel, still unaware of the divine source, continues to mistake God's voice for that of his mentor, Eli. It is in this repetition that Eli finally understands the true nature of the calls.

Historical and Cultural Context

This event unfolds during a period of spiritual scarcity in Israel, as noted in 1 Samuel 3:1, where "the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision." Divine revelation was rare, making Samuel's experience all the more significant. Samuel, a boy dedicated to the LORD from birth (1 Samuel 1:28), was serving under the aging High Priest Eli. Eli's own sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were notoriously corrupt (1 Samuel 2:12), leading to a decline in the priesthood. God's direct communication with Samuel signals a shift, indicating that a new, righteous prophetic voice was being raised up to guide the nation.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Persistence and Patience: The LORD's repeated calling of Samuel—three times in this passage alone—highlights God's unwavering determination to communicate with humanity. This demonstrates God's patience in guiding individuals toward understanding His will, even when they are initially unaware.
  • Spiritual Discernment and Mentorship: Eli, despite his personal failings and the shortcomings of his household, possesses sufficient spiritual insight to recognize that the calls are from the LORD. His instruction to Samuel in the following verse (1 Samuel 3:9) is crucial, underscoring the vital role of spiritual mentors in helping others discern God's voice and purpose.
  • The Dawn of a New Era: This moment marks a significant turning point, signifying the end of Eli's era and the beginning of Samuel's prophetic ministry. It shows God's faithfulness in raising up new leaders and channels of communication when existing ones fail or fade.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "called" (קָרָא, qara') is used repeatedly, emphasizing the direct and personal nature of God's summons. The word translated "perceived" (בִּין, biyn) for Eli implies more than just hearing; it suggests a deep understanding or discernment. Eli didn't just hear Samuel's recount; he understood the divine origin and implications of the calls, leading him to instruct Samuel on how to respond.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for believers today. It encourages us to cultivate a listening heart, recognizing that God often speaks in ways we might not immediately perceive. We may need the guidance of spiritual mentors to help us discern God's voice and direction, just as Eli helped Samuel. Furthermore, it reminds us of God's persistent nature; He continues to call us, even when we are slow to respond or understand, inviting us into deeper relationship and service. This narrative is foundational to understanding Samuel's development as a prophet whose words would later be established throughout Israel.

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Cross-References

  • Job 33:14 (3 votes)

    ¶ For God speaketh once, yea twice, [yet man] perceiveth it not.

  • Job 33:15 (3 votes)

    In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed;

  • 1 Corinthians 13:11 (2 votes)

    When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 (2 votes)

    For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.