1 Samuel 3:16

Then Eli called Samuel, and said, Samuel, my son. And he answered, Here [am] I.

Then Eli {H5941} called {H7121} Samuel {H8050}, and said {H559}, Samuel {H8050}, my son {H1121}. And he answered {H559}, Here am I.

Then 'Eli called Sh'mu'el: "Sh'mu'el, my son!" He answered, "Here I am."

but Eli called to him and said, “Samuel, my son.” “Here I am,” answered Samuel.

Then Eli called Samuel, and said, Samuel, my son. And he said, Here am I.

Commentary

Context

This verse marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of 1 Samuel chapter 3. Young Samuel, serving under the aging High Priest Eli, has just experienced a profound encounter with the Lord. Three times, Samuel mistook the divine voice for Eli calling him. After the third instance, Eli, discerning that the Lord was speaking to Samuel, instructed the boy to respond, "Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth" (1 Samuel 3:9). The Lord then revealed to Samuel a severe judgment against Eli's house due to his sons' wickedness and Eli's failure to restrain them. Eli's call to Samuel in verse 16 is the immediate aftermath of this divine revelation, as Eli seeks to learn what God has communicated.

Key Themes

  • Obedience and Readiness: Samuel's immediate response, "Here am I," demonstrates his readiness and obedience, a trait that would characterize his entire prophetic ministry. This echoes earlier responses to divine calls, such as Abraham's (Genesis 22:1).
  • Accountability and Truth: Eli's direct questioning of Samuel, despite knowing the potential for a difficult message, highlights his acceptance of accountability. He knows Samuel has heard from God and needs to know the truth.
  • Transition of Leadership: This interaction underscores the spiritual transition taking place. God is raising Samuel as a new prophet, signaling the decline of Eli's priestly line due to its corruption, as detailed in 1 Samuel 2:30-36.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Here am I" in Hebrew is hinnēni (הִנְנִי). This is not merely a casual reply but often signifies a posture of immediate availability, attentiveness, and willingness to serve or receive instruction. It conveys a deep readiness to engage with the speaker, especially when responding to a divine call. It's a foundational response for those called to service, indicating a humble and receptive heart.

Significance and Application

This brief exchange is highly significant. It sets the stage for Samuel's role as a prophet and judge in Israel, marking the beginning of his public ministry. For Eli, it's the painful confirmation of God's judgment. For believers today, this verse offers several insights:

  • Responding to God's Call: Like Samuel, we are called to be attentive and ready to respond when God speaks, whether through His Word, prayer, or circumstances. Our "Here am I" should reflect genuine readiness to obey.
  • Facing Difficult Truths: Eli's willingness to hear the hard truth from Samuel, even if it concerned his own downfall, is a powerful example of facing reality and accepting divine judgment.
  • The Importance of Mentorship: While Eli's family failed, his role in guiding Samuel to recognize God's voice was crucial. This highlights the importance of spiritual guidance for those beginning their walk with God, even if the mentor himself is flawed.

The interaction between Eli and Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:16 reminds us of the profound nature of divine communication and the human responsibility to listen and respond with humility and obedience.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.