Understanding 1 Samuel 2:36

Bible Verse: 1 Samuel 2:36

The verse states: "And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left in thine house shall come and crouch to him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray thee, into one of the priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread."

Summary of Meaning

This verse delivers a profound message about the decline of the priestly family of Eli, illustrating the consequences of apostasy and disobedience to God. The phrase suggests a future state of desperation where the remnants of Eli's lineage are reduced to begging for a place in the priesthood for mere sustenance. This serves as a stark reminder of God’s judgment for unfaithfulness.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes that this prophecy indicates the fall of Eli’s household due to their corruption and dishonor before God. He notes the significance of the priestly office being diminished and how desperation leads the survivors to seek the last remnants of dignity through servitude.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that this reflects an ironic turn of events. Once held in honor, Eli's descendants are reduced to a state of humility and need, illustrating the reversal of fortune that can accompany divine judgment. His commentary elaborates on the historical context of decline in the priesthood.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke adds that the imagery of "crouching" conveys the depth of humiliation faced by Eli's descendants. This helplessness underscores the seriousness of transgressions against God, where they earnestly seek a small role within the priestly duties to survive.

Cross-References

This verse can be better understood through the following cross-references:

• 1 Samuel 2:30: Highlights the promise that God would honor those who honor Him, pivotal in understanding the downfall of Eli’s lineage.
• Deuteronomy 28:15-68: Describes the consequences of disobedience to God, paralleling the fate of Eli’s family.
• Jeremiah 7:14: Offers insight into God's responses to unfaithfulness among leaders.
• Matthew 23:12: Speaks of the principle that "whoever exalts himself will be humbled," mirroring Eli's fate.
• 1 Kings 2:27: Connects with the judgment against Abiathar, a descendant of Eli, reinforcing themes of divine retribution.
• Psalm 78:66-72: Reflects on the history of Israel's leadership failures and God's corrective measures.
• Hebrews 7:11-14: Discusses the transition from the Levitical priesthood, hinting at the lasting consequences of Eli’s family's unfaithfulness.

Thematic Connections

This verse also aligns with broader themes in the Bible, highlighting:

• Accountability and Judgment: Both Eli's failure and the subsequent fate of his progeny underscore the biblical principle of accountability for one's actions, especially in leadership roles.
• Desperation and Humility: The imagery of crouching brings to the forefront the necessity of humility before God and the consequences of pride and sin.
• Covenanical Faithfulness: The decline of Eli's house serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of remaining faithful to God's covenant.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 2:36 acts as a profound lens through which to examine the implications of unfaithfulness to God's calling and serves as a reminder of the standards expected of those who serve in spiritual leadership. Its connections to other scriptures reinforce its message, making it a significant text for study and reflection.