What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 2:11? Then Elkanah went home to Ramah • Elkanah fulfills his vow by leaving Samuel at Shiloh, then returns to the family’s home base in Ramah (1 Samuel 1:19–23). • His departure underscores parental faith that God Himself will shepherd the child they have dedicated (Judges 13:12; Proverbs 3:5–6). • Going back to normal life after an act of costly obedience models steady trust—Elkanah does not hover over the altar but trusts the LORD to keep His word (Genesis 22:5; Hebrews 11:17–19). but the boy began ministering to the LORD • “The boy” is Samuel, likely no more than three or four years old (1 Samuel 1:24). Even at that tender age he is portrayed as a servant, not just a resident. • Ministering “to the LORD” points to genuine worship, not mere chores. Every task—opening doors, tending lamps—was counted as service to God Himself (1 Samuel 3:15; Colossians 3:23–24). • Scripture repeatedly highlights youthful devotion: Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 37:2), David with the sheep (1 Samuel 16:11–13), Josiah at eight years old (2 Chronicles 34:1–3), and the Lord Jesus in the temple at twelve (Luke 2:41–49). • The verse reminds families and congregations that children can and should be active in the life of worship rather than spectators (Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Matthew 19:14). before Eli the priest • Samuel’s service happens “before” or under the oversight of Eli, the high priest (1 Samuel 1:9). God often shapes servants through imperfect human mentors (2 Kings 2:2; Acts 22:3). • Eli’s failures with his own sons (1 Samuel 2:12–17) contrast sharply with Samuel’s faithfulness, highlighting personal responsibility regardless of surrounding compromise (Philippians 2:15–16). • Serving in proximity to the tabernacle places Samuel at the heart of Israel’s worship life, preparing him for later prophetic and judicial leadership (1 Samuel 3:19–21; 7:15–17). • The phrase signals accountability and order in God’s house—ministry is conducted under recognized authority (Numbers 27:18–23; Hebrews 13:17). summary 1 Samuel 2:11 captures a turning point: faithful parents release their vowed child, and that child immediately steps into real service under established authority. The verse affirms that God honors sacrificial obedience, welcomes youthful dedication, and works through orderly spiritual leadership to advance His redemptive plan. |
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