### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term G4545 Samouḗl is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun `{{H8050}}` (Shemu'el). As a personal name, its semantic range is inherently limited to the individual it denotes: the renowned prophet, judge, and priest of ancient Israel. The Hebrew etymology of `{{H8050}}` is traditionally understood in two primary ways: either "heard of God" (from *shama'* "to hear" and *'el* "God"), which resonates with Hannah's prayer and the circumstances of his birth in [[1 Samuel 1:20]], or "name of God" (from *shem* "name" and *'el* "God"). Both interpretations underscore his unique relationship with the Divine and his pivotal role in God's plan for Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, G4545 Samouḗl appears in three significant contexts, each highlighting his foundational importance within the history of salvation:
* In [[Acts 3:24]], Peter, addressing the crowds in the temple, declares, "And all the prophets, from Samuel and those who came after him, as many as have spoken, have also announced these days." This statement positions Samuel as the inaugural figure, or at least a pivotal early figure, in the continuous line of Israelite prophecy, underscoring his role in foretelling the coming of the Messiah.
* Paul, in his sermon at Pisidian Antioch, recounts God's dealings with Israel, stating in [[Acts 13:20]] that God "gave them judges until Samuel the prophet." This places Samuel at the crucial juncture of Israelite history, marking the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He served as the last of the judges and the first of the great prophets who would anoint kings.
* Samuel is also honored among the heroes of faith in [[Hebrews 11:32]], where he is listed alongside Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, and David as those who "through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions." While specific actions are not detailed for Samuel in this verse, his inclusion in this esteemed company testifies to his profound faith and his instrumental role in God's redemptive history.
The full scope of Samuel's life and ministry is, of course, found in the Old Testament books that bear his name, detailing his miraculous birth, his call by God, his faithful service as judge and prophet, and his anointing of both Saul and David as kings.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct related word is the Hebrew original `{{H8050}}` (Shemu'el). Beyond this etymological link, the figure of Samuel is intrinsically connected to several key biblical concepts:
* **Prophet (נָבִיא, *navi*):** Samuel is preeminently a prophet, hearing and delivering God's word, often in challenging circumstances. He is seen as inaugurating a new era of prophetic ministry in Israel.
* **Judge (שֹׁפֵט, *shophet*):** He served as the final judge of Israel, restoring order and leading the people in repentance before God.
* **Priest/Levite:** Although not of the Aaronic high priestly line, Samuel, as a Levite, ministered before the Lord and offered sacrifices, embodying a multifaceted spiritual leadership.
* **Anointing (מָשַׁח, *mashach*):** A defining act of Samuel's ministry was the anointing of kings, signifying divine appointment.
* **Transition:** His life and ministry represent a critical period of transition in Israel's history, from a tribal confederacy under judges to a centralized monarchy.
* **Word of the Lord:** Samuel's ministry was characterized by the clear and authoritative communication of God's word, establishing him as a true mouthpiece for Yahweh.
### Theological Significance
The person of Samuel holds profound theological significance:
* **Divine Initiative and Calling:** His miraculous birth and early call by God underscore God's sovereign initiative in raising up leaders for His people, demonstrating that human leadership is ultimately a divine appointment.
* **Integrity and Faithfulness:** Samuel's life stands as a testament to unwavering faithfulness from childhood, contrasting sharply with the corrupt priesthood of Eli's sons. He consistently prioritized God's will over human desires, even when it meant delivering difficult messages.
* **Prophetic Authority and Obedience:** Samuel embodies the true prophetic office: speaking God's word with authority and courage, even when it meant confronting kings like Saul. His emphasis on obedience over sacrifice ([[1 Samuel 15:22]]) remains a foundational theological principle.
* **Covenant Mediator:** Serving as judge, prophet, and the one who anointed kings, Samuel functioned as a crucial mediator between God and His people, guiding Israel through a period of significant societal and governmental change while continually calling them back to their covenant obligations.
* **Foundation for Monarchy and Messiah:** By anointing Saul and then David, Samuel was instrumental in establishing the Davidic monarchy, the lineage through which the Messiah would ultimately come. His work thus forms a vital link in the unfolding redemptive history leading to Christ.
### Summary
G4545 Samouḗl refers to the eminent Old Testament figure, Samuel, whose name is derived from the Hebrew `{{H8050}}` (Shemu'el), meaning "heard of God" or "name of God." In the New Testament, he is recognized as a foundational prophet ([[Acts 3:24]]), a pivotal figure marking the transition from the judges to the monarchy ([[Acts 13:20]]), and a hero of faith ([[Hebrews 11:32]]). His life and ministry, detailed extensively in the Old Testament, exemplify divine calling, unwavering faithfulness, and prophetic authority. Theologically, Samuel serves as a model of obedient leadership, a crucial mediator in Israel's covenant relationship with God, and an indispensable link in the redemptive narrative that culminates in the coming of the Messiah.
TRV