Understanding 1 Samuel 1:23
Verse Reference: 1 Samuel 1:23
"And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the Lord establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him."
Summary and Explanation
This verse reveals a significant moment in the narrative of Hannah, who is bearing the weight of her vow to dedicate her son Samuel to the Lord. Elkanah, her husband, displays an attitude of support and reasonableness, encouraging her to fulfill her maternal role while ensuring that God's promises are upheld.
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Parental Responsibility:
Elkanah's response underscores the importance of parental duties, emphasizing that while spiritual commitments are vital, the immediate needs of the child must not be neglected.
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Support in Decision Making:
Elkanah acts as a loving husband by allowing Hannah to decide what is best for her and their child, exemplifying mutual respect in their marriage.
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Faith in God's Promises:
His reference to God "establishing His word" suggests a deep trust in Divine providence, indicating that fulfilling vows aligns with God's will.
Cross-References and Thematic Connections
1 Samuel 1:23 engages in numerous theological themes and resonates with various scriptures:
- 1 Samuel 1:11: Hannah's vow to dedicate Samuel to the Lord.
- Proverbs 22:6: The importance of raising children in the right way.
- Matthew 6:33: Seeking first the Kingdom of God, aligning with Hannah's commitment.
- Hebrews 11:11: The faith of Sarah in God's promises, resembling Hannah's situation.
- Lamentations 3:25-26: God's faithfulness and the value of waiting for His timing.
- Psalms 127:3: Children are a heritage from the Lord, emphasizing the importance of parenting.
- Luke 2:22: The dedication of Jesus, paralleling Hannah's act of devotion with Samuel.
Comparative Bible Verse Analysis
When analyzing 1 Samuel 1:23 alongside other relevant scriptures, we observe that:
- Connection to Vows: Other biblical figures, like Jephthah, also made vows to God, thus highlighting the seriousness of promises and God's faithfulness in response.
- Linking Family and Faith: The bond between Hannah and Samuel paves the way for understanding the relationship between family obligations and spiritual commitments.
- Thematic Correlation: The concept of waiting on God is reinforced in the lives of biblical characters who sought divine direction, which is a prevalent theme in both the Old and New Testaments.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
To effectively engage with and study scriptures like 1 Samuel 1:23:
- Bible Concordance: This tool aids in finding words and themes throughout the Bible, enhancing understanding connections.
- Cross-Reference Bible Study: Utilizing cross-references allows for a comprehensive look at related verses, enriching the study experience.
- Bible Reference Resources: These include study guides and commentaries that provide deeper insights into scripture.
Identifying Connections in Scripture
Studying 1 Samuel 1:23 encourages believers to:
- Explore Similarities: Discover connections between the experiences of Hannah and other biblical figures, such as Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist, who also faced challenges with motherhood.
- Find Cross-References: Engage in finding verses that support the themes of faith, obedience, and family commitments throughout the Bible.
- Interpret Biblical Themes: Analyze how waiting on God plays a critical role in the fulfillment of His promises, both in the Old Testament and in the life of Christ.
