Compare Genesis 35:18 with 1 Samuel 1:20. How do names reflect faith? Setting the Scene Genesis 35:18: “And with her last breath—for she was dying—she named him Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin.” 1 Samuel 1:20: “So in due time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, ‘Because I have asked for him from the LORD.’” Ben-Oni or Benjamin—A Shift from Sorrow to Strength • Rachel, worn out by labor, voices her pain: Ben-oni, “son of my sorrow.” • Jacob immediately intervenes, renaming the child Benjamin, “son of the right hand,” a phrase of honor, strength, and favor (cf. Psalm 110:1). • The change reveals a deliberate act of faith. Jacob refuses to let the boy’s identity be defined by death and grief. • By speaking a new name, the patriarch aligns his family story with God’s covenant promises (Genesis 35:11-12). Samuel—A Name That Sings of Prayer Answered • Hannah endures barrenness, mockery, and anguish (1 Samuel 1:6-10). • Her vow and fervent prayer lead to conception. • She names the boy Samuel, sounding like “heard by God” or “asked of God.” • Each mention of Samuel’s name retells Hannah’s testimony that the Lord hears and responds (Psalm 34:4; Jeremiah 33:3). Shared Themes in the Two Stories • Both births occur in settings of deep emotion—one amid death, the other after long-standing disappointment. • A parent chooses a name that captures a theological truth: – Jacob asserts hope and future blessing. – Hannah proclaims God’s attentive mercy. • Names become daily confessions of faith; every time Benjamin or Samuel is spoken, God’s character and actions are remembered (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Further Biblical Echoes About Naming and Faith • Abram → Abraham: “father of many nations,” sealing the covenant (Genesis 17:5). • Sarai → Sarah: “princess,” pointing to royalty in the promised line (Genesis 17:15-16). • Jacob → Israel: “he struggles with God,” marking transformation after divine encounter (Genesis 32:28). • Jesus (Yeshua): “The LORD saves,” announced before His birth as heaven’s commentary on His mission (Matthew 1:21). Living It Out Today • Speak identity in harmony with Scripture rather than circumstances (Proverbs 18:21). • Recall and rehearse God’s past faithfulness; let it shape present outlook (Lamentations 3:21-23). • Use names, titles, or even simple words of blessing to keep the gospel story before family and community (Colossians 3:17). |
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