1 Samuel 4:15

KJV

Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his eyes were dim, that he could not see.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now Eli {H5941} was ninety {H8673} and eight {H8083} years {H8141} old {H1121}; and his eyes {H5869} were dim {H6965}, that he could {H3201} not see {H7200}.

Complete Jewish Bible

'Eli was ninety-eight years old, and his gaze was fixed, because he was blind.

Berean Standard Bible

Now Eli was ninety-eight years old, and his gaze was fixed because he could not see.

American Standard Version

Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his eyes were set, so that he could not see.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Samuel 4:15 powerfully depicts the extreme physical frailty of Eli, Israel's high priest and judge, at the precipice of receiving catastrophic news. His advanced age of ninety-eight years underscores his vulnerability and the twilight of his long tenure, while the description of his severely diminished eyesight not only details his physical incapacitation but also serves as a poignant symbolic prelude to the spiritual and national disaster about to unfold, highlighting the profound consequences of his past negligence and the impending divine judgment upon his house and the nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically positioned within the dramatic narrative of [1 Samuel 4](/1_samuel/4 "1 Samuel 4 - The Capture of the Ark"), serving as a critical transitional moment that heightens tension and foreshadows tragedy. Immediately preceding it, the chapter details Israel's devastating defeat by the Philistines and the capture of the Ark of the Covenant, an event of unparalleled theological and national significance. Verse 15 meticulously sets the stage for the arrival of a lone messenger from the battlefield in the very next verse, who will deliver the crushing news of Israel's rout, the Ark's capture, and the deaths of Eli's two wicked sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Eli's described physical state—his extreme age and profound visual impairment—underscores his vulnerability and prepares the reader for the immediate and fatal impact of the shocking revelation upon an already weakened figure, making his subsequent collapse and death in [1 Samuel 4:18](/1_samuel/4-18 "1 Samuel 4:18 - Eli's Death") a direct and tragic consequence of the news concerning the Ark.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Eli functioned as both high priest and judge in Israel during a tumultuous period marked by spiritual apostasy and political instability, preceding the establishment of the monarchy. The high priesthood was a hereditary office, tracing its lineage back to Aaron, and conferred immense spiritual authority, serving as the primary mediator between God and the people. As judge, Eli also wielded significant civil and judicial power, making him the central figure of Israelite society. His age of ninety-eight was exceptionally advanced for the era, signifying a long life but also extreme physical decline, indicative of a leadership that had perhaps outlived its vigor. The Philistines, a formidable seafaring people, posed a constant military threat to Israel, often challenging their borders and security with superior weaponry and organization. The Ark of the Covenant, seized by the Philistines in this chapter, was Israel's most sacred cultic object, symbolizing God's manifest presence among His people. Its capture represented an unprecedented national and theological catastrophe, reflecting God's severe judgment on Israel's sin and, specifically, on Eli's corrupt household, as previously and explicitly warned in divine prophecies found in [1 Samuel 2:27-36](/1_samuel/2-27 "1 Samuel 2:27-36 - Prophecy Against Eli's House") and [1 Samuel 3:11-14](/1_samuel/3-11 "1 Samuel 3:11-14 - Samuel's Prophecy to Eli").

* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 1 Samuel. Firstly, it highlights **Physical Decline and Frailty**, emphasizing the natural limitations of human life, particularly in advanced age. Eli's extreme longevity and impaired vision starkly underscore his vulnerability and incapacity, contrasting sharply with the robust and decisive leadership required in times of national crisis. Secondly, it powerfully introduces the theme of **Symbolic Blindness**, where Eli's literal inability to "see" serves as a potent metaphor for his spiritual failure to discern and decisively act against the egregious sins of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, despite receiving clear divine warnings. This spiritual inertia led to profound moral decay within the priesthood and the nation, as vividly detailed in [1 Samuel 2:12-17](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12-17 - The Wickedness of Eli's Sons"). Finally, the verse functions as a potent **Foreshadowing of Judgment**, meticulously setting the immediate scene for the climactic and tragic events of [1 Samuel 4](/1_samuel/4 "1 Samuel 4 - The Capture of the Ark"), where the cumulative consequences of Eli's negligence and his sons' wickedness culminate in national defeat, the loss of the Ark, and the demise of Eli's priestly line, thereby fulfilling the prophecies of divine judgment against his house found in [1 Samuel 3:13](/1_samuel/3-13 "1 Samuel 3:13 - God's Judgment on Eli").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **eyes (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** This word (H5869) literally means "eye" and can refer to the physical organ of sight. However, as the Strong's data indicates, it can also be used figuratively to denote "outward appearance," "countenance," "sight," or even "knowledge" and "discernment." In Eli's case, while it primarily describes his literal physical impairment, its figurative potential adds a layer of meaning, hinting at his spiritual inability to perceive and act upon the truth of God's will and the corruption within his own family.
* **dim (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** The Hebrew root (H6965) translated "dim" is _qûwm_, which primarily means "to rise," "to stand," or "to establish." However, in specific contexts, as noted in the Strong's data, it can idiomatically mean "to be dim" or "to be faint." This usage here describes a state of weakening or fading, indicating a progressive loss of visual acuity rather than sudden or complete blindness. It emphasizes Eli's gradual physical decline, mirroring the slow but sure decline of his household and the spiritual state of Israel under his leadership.
* **could (Hebrew, _yâkôl'_):** The Hebrew verb (H3201) _yâkôl_ means "to be able," "can," or "could." When used in the negative, as it is here ("could not see"), it signifies an absolute inability or lack of power. This highlights Eli's complete physical incapacitation regarding his sight, reinforcing the severity of his condition. Beyond the literal, it subtly underscores his moral and spiritual inability to effectively govern and discipline, which ultimately led to the tragic events of the chapter.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now Eli was ninety and eight years old;":** This initial clause immediately establishes Eli's advanced age, presenting him as a figure at the very end of his natural life. At ninety-eight, he is depicted as profoundly elderly and physically frail, highlighting his diminished capacity for active leadership, especially in a time of national crisis. This detail sets a somber and vulnerable tone, suggesting a leader whose time, both physically and in terms of effective authority, is drawing to a close. It underscores the precariousness of Israel's spiritual leadership at this critical juncture.
* **"and his eyes were dim, that he could not see.":** This second clause provides the specific detail of Eli's severe physical impairment. His "dim" eyes indicate a profound visual impairment, likely near-blindness, which would have significantly hindered his ability to navigate his surroundings or perform duties requiring clear sight. Beyond the literal physical state, this phrase carries immense symbolic weight. It powerfully implies a spiritual blindness or lack of discernment in Eli, who, despite his role as high priest, failed to "see" the rampant wickedness of his sons and the spiritual decline of Israel, even after receiving explicit divine warnings. This physical condition thus becomes a poignant metaphor for his moral and spiritual failings, setting the stage for the tragic consequences of his negligence and the impending divine judgment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound meaning. **Symbolism** is paramount, as Eli's physical blindness ("his eyes were dim, that he could not see") serves as a powerful and multi-layered metaphor for his spiritual and moral blindness. Despite his esteemed position as high priest and judge, he failed to "see" and decisively confront the rampant sin within his own family and the sacred sanctuary, leading directly to divine judgment upon his house. This literal physical impairment thus underscores his spiritual incapacity to discern and act decisively according to God's righteous will. Furthermore, the verse masterfully uses **Foreshadowing**, as Eli's extreme frailty and failing sight immediately precede the arrival of the messenger bearing news of national disaster and profound personal tragedy. His physical state prepares the reader for his subsequent collapse and death upon hearing the news, making his demise a direct and inevitable consequence of the catastrophic revelation. There is also a strong element of **Irony** present, as the high priest, who was divinely appointed to be the spiritual guide and "seer" for the nation, is depicted as literally and spiritually blind, unable to perceive the impending judgment or the profound corruption flourishing under his very nose.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The depiction of Eli's physical and spiritual state in [1 Samuel 4:15](/1_samuel/4-15 "1 Samuel 4:15 - Eli's Physical State") resonates deeply with broader biblical themes concerning the nature of leadership, the necessity of spiritual discernment, and the severe consequences of spiritual negligence. Eli's physical blindness serves as a stark and tragic symbol of his spiritual inability to confront sin within his own household and to fulfill his priestly duties with integrity and courage. This profound failure to "see" and act decisively led directly to divine judgment, demonstrating unequivocally that God holds leaders, whether in the church, family, or society, accountable for their stewardship and the spiritual health of those under their care. The passage underscores the critical importance of spiritual vigilance, active discernment, and the inherent dangers of complacency or compromise, reminding us that true leadership demands not merely physical presence but keen spiritual insight and courageous action in upholding God's righteous standards.

* [Deuteronomy 28:28](/deuteronomy/28-28 "Deuteronomy 28:28 - Blindness of Heart as a Curse")
* [Isaiah 6:9-10](/isaiah/6-9 "Isaiah 6:9-10 - Spiritual Blindness and Hardness of Heart")
* [Matthew 15:14](/matthew/15-14 "Matthew 15:14 - Blind Guides Leading the Blind")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Eli's story, particularly his physical and spiritual state as depicted in [1 Samuel 4:15](/1_samuel/4-15 "1 Samuel 4:15 - Eli's Physical State"), offers profound and timeless lessons for believers today. It serves as a powerful and sobering reminder that spiritual discernment is not an automatic endowment, even for those in positions of religious authority or long-standing faith. Just as Eli's physical sight failed him in his old age, we must remain vigilant and actively guard against spiritual dullness, apathy, or compromise that can insidiously prevent us from discerning God's will, recognizing sin, and courageously confronting it—whether in our own lives, within our families, or in the communities we are called to influence. The tragic outcome for Eli's family and the nation of Israel highlights the immense responsibility inherent in all forms of leadership, be it in the home, the church, or the workplace, to exercise spiritual vigilance, accountability, and courageous discipline. Inaction, spiritual complacency, and moral compromise can have severe, far-reaching, and generational consequences. This passage challenges each of us to regularly examine our own spiritual "eyesight," ensuring that we are not blinded by comfort, fear, worldly concerns, or personal convenience, but are instead keenly attuned to God's truth, His Spirit's leading, and are willing to act upon His will, even when such action is difficult or unpopular.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life might you be experiencing spiritual "dimness" or a lack of discernment, perhaps leading to inaction or compromise?**
* **How does Eli's failure to discipline his sons challenge modern approaches to parenting, mentorship, and leadership within the church or family unit?**
* **What are the potential long-term consequences of spiritual complacency or moral inaction in your own life or within your sphere of influence?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate greater spiritual vigilance, ensuring your "eyes" are open to God's will and the genuine needs and challenges around you?**

### FAQ
**Why is Eli's age and physical condition emphasized at this specific point in the narrative?**

Answer: Eli's age of ninety-eight and his dimming eyesight are emphasized in [1 Samuel 4:15](/1_samuel/4-15 "1 Samuel 4:15 - Eli's Physical State") to underscore his extreme physical vulnerability and incapacitation just before he receives the most devastating news of his life: the defeat of Israel, the capture of the Ark of the Covenant, and the deaths of his two sons. This deliberate detail heightens the dramatic tension, making his subsequent collapse and death in [1 Samuel 4:18](/1_samuel/4-18 "1 Samuel 4:18 - Eli's Death") a direct and tragic consequence of the shock. Furthermore, his physical blindness serves as a powerful symbol for his spiritual blindness and failure to act decisively against the wickedness of his sons, which had been prophesied earlier in [1 Samuel 2:27-36](/1_samuel/2-27 "1 Samuel 2:27-36 - Prophecy Against Eli's House") and [1 Samuel 3:11-14](/1_samuel/3-11 "1 Samuel 3:11-14 - Samuel's Prophecy to Eli"). The emphasis on his frailty highlights the end of an era of compromised leadership and the severe consequences of his negligence.

**What is the symbolic significance of Eli's "dim" eyes?**

Answer: The "dim" eyes of Eli in [1 Samuel 4:15](/1_samuel/4-15 "1 Samuel 4:15 - Eli's Physical State") carry significant symbolic weight beyond mere physical impairment. While literally indicating his failing eyesight, they powerfully represent his spiritual and moral blindness. As high priest and judge, Eli was meant to be a spiritual guide for Israel, discerning God's will and upholding His laws. However, he failed to "see" the rampant corruption of his own sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were desecrating the sanctuary and exploiting the people ([1 Samuel 2:12-17](/1_samuel/2-12 "1 Samuel 2:12-17 - The Wickedness of Eli's Sons")). Despite receiving explicit divine warnings ([1 Samuel 2:27-36](/1_samuel/2-27 "1 Samuel 2:27-36 - Prophecy Against Eli's House")), Eli's response was inadequate, demonstrating a critical lack of spiritual insight and decisive action. Thus, his physical blindness serves as a poignant metaphor for his spiritual inability to perceive and confront sin, ultimately leading to the downfall of his house and national tragedy.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Eli's physical and spiritual blindness in [1 Samuel 4:15](/1_samuel/4-15 "1 Samuel 4:15 - Eli's Physical State") stands in stark and profound contrast to the perfect vision, unwavering discernment, and righteous authority of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Eli, though a divinely appointed priest, tragically failed to "see" and decisively address the pervasive sin within his own household, leading directly to divine judgment and the temporary, symbolic loss of God's manifest presence (represented by the Ark of the Covenant). In stark contrast, Jesus, the true and eternal High Priest, is never spiritually blind; His eyes are described as "like a flame of fire" ([Revelation 1:14](/revelation/1-14 "Revelation 1:14 - Description of Christ")), symbolizing His penetrating insight, perfect discernment, and righteous judgment. He perfectly discerns the will of God and confronts sin with absolute righteousness and divine authority. Unlike Eli, whose priestly line was cut off due to unfaithfulness and corruption, Jesus's priesthood is "forever according to the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Jesus, a Priest Forever")), an unchangeable and eternal ministry. Where Eli's failure brought about national defeat and the tragic demise of his sons, Jesus's perfect obedience, sinless life, and ultimate sacrificial death bring salvation, reconciliation, and eternal life to all who believe, for He is the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") His perfect vision and unwavering commitment to God's will offer a priesthood of grace, truth, and eternal redemption that Eli's earthly, flawed ministry could only dimly foreshadow.

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 3:2

And it came to pass at that time, when Eli [was] laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, [that] he could not see;

Genesis 27:1

¶ And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so that he could not see, he called Esau his eldest son, and said unto him, My son: and he said unto him, Behold, [here am] I.

1 Kings 14:4

And Jeroboam's wife did so, and arose, and went to Shiloh, and came to the house of Ahijah. But Ahijah could not see; for his eyes were set by reason of his age.

Psalms 90:10

The days of our years [are] threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength [they be] fourscore years, yet [is] their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.