What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 1:21? Then Elkanah and all his house went up • Elkanah models spiritual leadership by physically leading his family to worship, echoing Joshua’s resolve: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). • Scripture shows this was his regular practice (1 Samuel 1:3), teaching that consistent, visible obedience strengthens the household’s faith (Genesis 18:19). • Everyone went—reinforcing that worship is not optional for any family member (Deuteronomy 31:12). to make the annual sacrifice • God’s law required every male to appear before Him at the appointed feasts (Exodus 23:17; Deuteronomy 16:16). Elkanah obeys literally, treating the divine command as non-negotiable. • The phrase reminds believers today that worship involves giving—bringing tangible offerings that acknowledge God’s provision (Deuteronomy 12:5-7). • Regular sacrifices pointed forward to the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:1-10), underscoring why the pattern matters. to the LORD • The journey’s focus is not Shiloh itself but the Person who meets His people there (Psalm 122:1, 4). • Genuine worship centers on God’s worth, not personal convenience or tradition (1 Samuel 2:30). • By specifying “to the LORD,” the text underscores covenant loyalty—worship is relational, not ritualistic (Hebrews 10:22). and to fulfill his vow • Hannah had vowed to dedicate her firstborn to the LORD (1 Samuel 1:11). Numbers 30:2-7 shows a husband’s consent finalized such a vow; Elkanah now acts to see it carried out. • Scripture insists that vows must be paid promptly (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5; Deuteronomy 23:21-23). Their determination illustrates integrity—doing exactly what was promised once God answered prayer. • Fulfilling the vow meant surrendering their long-awaited son, demonstrating faith that God blesses obedience even when it costs dearly (Genesis 22:16-18). summary 1 Samuel 1:21 records Elkanah’s obedient leadership, his family’s unified worship, their faithfulness to God’s appointed feasts, and their integrity in keeping a sacred promise. The verse teaches that true worship is active, family-wide, God-focused, and marked by follow-through on every commitment made before the LORD. |
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