Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The name "Sami" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, it is a name of Hebrew origin, often considered a variant of "Samuel," which means "heard by God" or "God has heard." The name Samuel is significant in the biblical narrative, particularly in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel, where the prophet Samuel plays a crucial role in the history of Israel. Biblical Context of Samuel: Samuel is a pivotal figure in the Old Testament, serving as the last judge of Israel, a prophet, and a priest. His account is primarily found in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Samuel's birth was an answer to the fervent prayers of his mother, Hannah, who was barren. In her distress, she vowed to dedicate her child to the Lord if He granted her a son. The Lord heard her prayer, and she named her son Samuel, reflecting the meaning "heard by God." Key Biblical Passages: 1. Hannah's Prayer and Samuel's Birth: "So in the course of time, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, 'Because I have asked for him from the LORD.'" (1 Samuel 1:20) 2. Samuel's Calling: As a young boy, Samuel was called by God while serving in the temple under Eli the priest. This calling marked the beginning of his prophetic ministry. "Then the LORD called to Samuel, and he answered, 'Here I am.'" (1 Samuel 3:4) 3. Role as Judge and Prophet: Samuel played a critical role in guiding Israel during a tumultuous period. He was instrumental in transitioning Israel from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. "Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life." (1 Samuel 7:15) 4. Anointing of Kings: Samuel anointed both Saul and David as kings of Israel, acting under God's direction. His anointing of David, in particular, set the stage for the Davidic line, which is central to biblical prophecy and the lineage of Jesus Christ. "Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward." (1 Samuel 16:13) Theological Significance: Samuel's life and ministry underscore the themes of divine calling, obedience, and the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations. His role as a prophet who anoints kings highlights the importance of divine authority and guidance in leadership. Samuel's account also emphasizes the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God in responding to the cries of His people. Cultural and Historical Impact: Samuel's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the spiritual and political landscape of Israel. His establishment of the monarchy set the stage for the reigns of Saul and David, which were pivotal in Israel's history. The prophetic tradition that Samuel embodied continued to be a vital aspect of Israel's relationship with God, as prophets served as God's messengers to the people. Conclusion: While the name "Sami" itself is not found in the biblical text, its connection to Samuel provides a rich tapestry of biblical history and theology. Samuel's life and ministry remain a testament to God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience to His will. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SAMIsa'-mi: the King James Version = the Revised Version (British and American) SABI (which see). SECOND SABBATH See SABBATH, SECOND AFTER THE FIRST. Thesaurus Sami... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SAMI. sa'-mi: the King James Version = the Revised Version (British and American) SABI (which see). SECOND SABBATH. ... /s/sami.htm - 6k Samgar-nebu (1 Occurrence) Samis Sabi Shimon (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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