Introduction:
Shem'uel, more commonly known as Samuel, is a pivotal figure in the Hebrew Bible, serving as a prophet, priest, and the last judge of Israel. His life and ministry are primarily chronicled in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Samuel's role was crucial during a transitional period in Israel's history, as he anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

Birth and Early Life:
Samuel's birth was a direct answer to prayer. His mother, Hannah, was barren and fervently prayed for a child, vowing to dedicate him to the Lord's service. The Lord answered her prayer, and she named her son Samuel, meaning "heard of God" (1 Samuel 1:20). True to her vow, Hannah brought Samuel to the tabernacle at Shiloh to serve under Eli the priest (1 Samuel 1:24-28).

Calling and Ministry:
Samuel's calling as a prophet is marked by a divine encounter during his youth. While serving in the tabernacle, the Lord called Samuel by name, and after some initial confusion, he responded, "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). This marked the beginning of his prophetic ministry, and "the LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19).

Role as Judge and Prophet:
Samuel served as a judge over Israel, leading the people in spiritual and military matters. He called the nation to repentance and led them in a victory over the Philistines at Mizpah (1 Samuel 7:3-13). Samuel's leadership was characterized by his commitment to God's law and his role as an intercessor for the people.

Anointing of Kings:
As Israel clamored for a king to lead them like other nations, Samuel was directed by God to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9:16-17). Despite his initial reluctance, Samuel obeyed God's command. Later, when Saul disobeyed God, Samuel was sent to anoint David, the shepherd boy from Bethlehem, as Saul's successor (1 Samuel 16:1-13).

Legacy and Death:
Samuel's influence extended beyond his lifetime. He is remembered as a man of prayer and integrity, whose leadership helped shape the nation of Israel. His death is recorded in 1 Samuel 25:1, where it is noted that "all Israel assembled and mourned for him, and they buried him at his home in Ramah" .

Significance in Scripture:
Samuel's life and ministry highlight the importance of obedience to God and the power of prayer. His role as a prophet and judge set the stage for the monarchy in Israel, and his anointing of David established the Davidic line, which is central to biblical prophecy and the lineage of Jesus Christ.

References in the New Testament:
Samuel is mentioned in the New Testament as a prophet who played a significant role in Israel's history. In Acts 3:24, Peter refers to Samuel as one of the prophets who foretold the coming of Christ. Additionally, Hebrews 11:32 includes Samuel among the heroes of faith, recognizing his enduring legacy in the history of God's people.Shem'uel (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 7:2
And the sons of Tola: Uzzi and Rephaiah, and Jeriel, and Jahmai, and Ibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their fathers' houses, mighty men of valour according to their generations, even of Tola; their number in the days of David was two and twenty thousand and six hundred.
(See RSV)

Shem'uel (1 Occurrence)
Shem'uel. Shemuel, Shem'uel. Shemu'el . Multi-Version Concordance
Shem'uel (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 7:2 And the sons of Tola ...
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Shemuel (3 Occurrences)

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Shemu'el (1 Occurrence)
Shemu'el. Shem'uel, Shemu'el. Shen . Multi-Version Concordance Shemu'el (1
Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Shem'uel, Shemu'el. Shen . Reference Bible.
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