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1 Samuel 3:21

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And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD.

And the LORD {H3068} appeared {H7200} again {H3254} in Shiloh {H7887}: for the LORD {H3068} revealed {H1540} himself to Samuel {H8050} in Shiloh {H7887} by the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}.

ADONAI continued appearing in Shiloh, for ADONAI revealed himself to Sh'mu'el in Shiloh by the word of ADONAI.

And the LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, because there He revealed Himself to Samuel by His word.

And Jehovah appeared again in Shiloh; for Jehovah revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of Jehovah.

Commentary

Context of 1 Samuel 3:21

This verse concludes a pivotal chapter in the life of young Samuel, establishing him firmly as a prophet in Israel. It follows God's dramatic initial call to Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1-10), where the LORD revealed His impending judgment on the house of Eli, the high priest, due to the wickedness of his sons. Shiloh was the primary religious center of Israel at this time, where the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant resided (Judges 18:31). Against the backdrop of spiritual decline under Eli's leadership, God raises up Samuel as a new, faithful voice, signifying a shift in divine communication and leadership.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Revelation and Presence: The phrase "the LORD appeared again in Shiloh" underscores God's continued, active presence at His sanctuary and His deliberate choice to make Himself known. This was not a one-time event but an ongoing relationship with Samuel.
  • Samuel's Established Prophetic Role: This verse solidifies Samuel's position as a legitimate prophet. The fact that "the LORD revealed himself to Samuel... by the word of the LORD" confirms that Samuel was God's direct channel of communication, a role that would be widely recognized throughout Israel (1 Samuel 3:20).
  • The Authority of God's Word: The method of revelation, "by the word of the LORD," highlights the supreme authority and power of divine utterance. God communicates His will and purpose through direct speech, which Samuel then faithfully conveys. This emphasizes that true prophecy originates directly from God's spoken word.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "revealed himself" is a form of galah (גָּלָה), meaning "to uncover," "to disclose," or "to reveal." It implies an active, intentional act on God's part to make Himself known. This is not Samuel merely having spiritual insights, but God deliberately showing Himself and His will. The phrase "by the word of the LORD" (bidvar YHWH) is a standard prophetic formula, indicating a direct, verbal message from God, which distinguishes true prophets from those who speak their own thoughts.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Samuel 3:21 offers several insights:

  • God Still Speaks: While not always audibly, God continues to reveal Himself and His will, primarily through His written Word (the Bible), the Holy Spirit, and through circumstances. Like Samuel, we are called to listen attentively for His voice.
  • Faithfulness in Small Beginnings: Samuel's journey began with simple obedience and attentiveness. God uses those who are available and willing to hear, regardless of their age or status.
  • The Importance of God's Word: This verse reminds us that true spiritual understanding and guidance come from God's revealed word. Our lives should be shaped by His divine utterances, just as Samuel's ministry was.
  • God Raises Up Leaders: In times of spiritual need, God often raises up faithful individuals to speak His truth and lead His people, confirming their calling through His continued presence and revelation.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 12:7 (6 votes)

    And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

  • 1 Samuel 3:1 (6 votes)

    ¶ And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; [there was] no open vision.

  • Genesis 15:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I [am] thy shield, [and] thy exceeding great reward.

  • 1 Samuel 3:4 (4 votes)

    That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here [am] I.

  • Numbers 12:6 (4 votes)

    And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, [I] the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, [and] will speak unto him in a dream.

  • Hebrews 1:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

  • Amos 3:7 (3 votes)

    Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.