1 samuel 1:3 - This man went up out of his city from year to year to worship and to sacrifice to Yahweh of Armies in Shiloh. The two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, priests to Yahweh, were there.

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 1:3

What does "1 samuel 1:3" mean?


This verse from 1 Samuel 1:3 sets the scene for the story of Hannah and her desire for a child. Let's break it down:

"This man went up out of his city from year to year to worship and to sacrifice to Yahweh of Armies in Shiloh."
"This man": This refers to Elkanah, Hannah's husband (mentioned in the previous verses).
"Went up out of his city": This implies Elkanah lived in a lower elevation area and traveled "up" to Shiloh, which was likely on higher ground.
"From year to year": This emphasizes that Elkanah was a devout and consistent worshiper of Yahweh. He made a yearly pilgrimage.
"To worship and to sacrifice to Yahweh of Armies in Shiloh": This highlights the purpose of Elkanah's annual trip: to offer sacrifices and worship at the tabernacle (a portable sanctuary) which was located in Shiloh at that time. "Yahweh of Armies" (or "Lord of Hosts") is a powerful name for God, emphasizing His power and authority over all. Shiloh was a central religious center for the Israelites during this period.

"The two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, priests to Yahweh, were there."
"The two sons of Eli": This introduces Hophni and Phinehas, who are important characters in the larger narrative. Their father, Eli, was the high priest.
"Hophni and Phinehas, priests to Yahweh": This states their role as priests. However, the story later reveals they were corrupt and abused their position, which contributed to Israel's downfall.

In essence, this verse establishes:

Elkanah's piety: He was a devout worshiper.
The setting: Shiloh was the religious center and the location where Elkanah went to worship.
The presence of corrupt priests: Hophni and Phinehas were present, foreshadowing the problems within Israel's religious leadership.

This verse is important because it contrasts Elkanah's genuine devotion with the corruption of the priesthood. This contrast sets the stage for the story of Hannah, her prayers for a child, and the eventual birth of Samuel, who would become a significant prophet and leader in Israel, reforming the nation and addressing the corruption of the priesthood.

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