Understanding 1 Samuel 1:22

Bible Verse: 1 Samuel 1:22 (KJV) - "But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before the Lord, and there abide for ever."

Verse Summary

This verse captures a pivotal moment in Hannah's life, as she decides to keep Samuel with her until he is weaned. After years of barrenness and fervent prayer, Hannah vows to dedicate her son to the Lord's service. This verse illustrates the themes of parental commitment and devotion, as well as the fulfillment of divine promises.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes Hannah's faithfulness and her understanding of her vow. He notes that her deliberate choice to wait reflects her spiritual priorities. By choosing to nurture Samuel until he is weaned, she prepares him for a life dedicated to God's service, showcasing the importance of parental influence in spiritual upbringing.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes discusses the significance of Hannah’s vow and her promise to the Lord. He highlights her unwavering spirit and commitment, interpreting her decision as not only a personal sacrifice but as a powerful act of obedience to God. This decision sets a foundation for Samuel's future role as a prophet and leader in Israel.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out the cultural context of weaning in Hannah's society, indicating that a child could remain with his mother for several years. He interprets this as a time for Hannah to impart her faith and values to Samuel, forming a vital bond before he serves in the temple.

Thematic Connections

This verse is rich in themes, such as:

• Dedication: Hannah’s dedication of Samuel to the Lord's service follows a tradition seen in other parts of the scriptures.
• Faith and Prayer: The profound impact of prayer in Hannah’s life correlates with other verses about the power of prayer (e.g., James 5:16).
• Parental Responsibility: This theme resonates with scriptures that emphasize teaching children about faith (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

Cross-References to Consider

1 Samuel 1:22 is connected to several other scriptures:

• 1 Samuel 1:11: Hannah's dedication of her son to God through the vow.
• Judges 13:3-5: Similar dedication of Samson to the Lord.
• Luke 2:22: The presentation of Jesus at the temple, paralleling the idea of dedicating children to God.
• Romans 12:1: The call to offer oneself as a living sacrifice, akin to Hannah's offering of Samuel.
• Proverbs 22:6: The importance of training children in the way they should go, reflecting Hannah's intention.
• Galatians 4:26: Discusses the heavenly Jerusalem, which may symbolize the spiritual home Hannah desires for Samuel.
• 1 Peter 2:9: The call to be a chosen generation, reflecting the idea of being set apart for God's service.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 1:22 highlights the essential aspects of dedication, parental love, and faithfulness to God. Hannah's determination to wean her child before fulfilling her vow offers deep insights into the nurturing role of parents in imparting faith. Through an examination of this verse and its related scriptures, one can fully appreciate the interconnectedness of biblical themes and the importance of spiritual dedication.

Tools for Further Study

For those interested in exploring more about this verse, consider the following:

• Utilizing a Bible concordance to find additional cross-references.
• Applying a Bible cross-reference guide to explore interrelated themes.
• Engaging in cross-referencing Bible study methods to deepen understanding.

Additional Resources

This study can be expanded with a variety of Bible reference resources such as:

• Bible chain references for thematic studies.
• Comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials for understanding connections.
• Digital tools for easy navigation through cross-referencing Biblical texts.

Encouragement for Study

As you explore the connections between different Bible verses, remember to ask questions and seek out Bible verses that relate to each other. This practice will enrich your understanding and provide a fuller picture of God's Word, revealing how every scripture is interwoven with divine truth.