This verse from 1 Samuel 4:14 describes a moment of heightened tension and confusion. Let's break it down:
"When Eli heard the noise of the crying...": Eli was the high priest of Israel and, at this point, was old and blind (as mentioned earlier in the chapter). The "crying" refers to a loud and distressed weeping. This indicates that something bad has happened.
"...he said, “What does the noise of this tumult mean?”": Eli, being hard of hearing and/or unable to see, asks about the source of the commotion. The word "tumult" emphasizes the chaos and disorder accompanying the crying. He is concerned about the cause of this loud and disturbing sound. It suggests widespread panic or distress.
"The man hurried, and came and told Eli.": A messenger arrives, rushing to Eli's side. This implies the news is urgent. The verse sets the stage for the delivery of terrible tidings. The reader knows that whatever news the man brings is significant and likely disastrous.
In essence, the verse signifies:
A Sense of Impending Doom: The loud crying and Eli's confusion hint at a catastrophe.
Eli's Position of Authority: Though old and weakened, Eli is still the one to whom people bring important news.
Foreshadowing: This verse acts as a bridge, building suspense before the revelation of the disastrous events that have unfolded in the battle against the Philistines (which will be revealed in the following verses: the ark of the covenant has been captured, his sons are dead, and Israel has suffered a massive defeat).
Eli's Dependence: Because of his age and failing senses, Eli is reliant on others for information, highlighting his vulnerability.
In summary, this verse is a crucial turning point in the narrative. It creates an atmosphere of dread and sets up the tragic news that Eli is about to receive.
This verse from 1 Samuel 4:14 describes a moment of heightened tension and confusion. Let's break it down:
"When Eli heard the noise of the crying...": Eli was the high priest of Israel and, at this point, was old and blind (as mentioned earlier in the chapter). The "crying" refers to a loud and distressed weeping. This indicates that something bad has happened.
"...he said, “What does the noise of this tumult mean?”": Eli, being hard of hearing and/or unable to see, asks about the source of the commotion. The word "tumult" emphasizes the chaos and disorder accompanying the crying. He is concerned about the cause of this loud and disturbing sound. It suggests widespread panic or distress.
"The man hurried, and came and told Eli.": A messenger arrives, rushing to Eli's side. This implies the news is urgent. The verse sets the stage for the delivery of terrible tidings. The reader knows that whatever news the man brings is significant and likely disastrous.
In essence, the verse signifies:
A Sense of Impending Doom: The loud crying and Eli's confusion hint at a catastrophe.
Eli's Position of Authority: Though old and weakened, Eli is still the one to whom people bring important news.
Foreshadowing: This verse acts as a bridge, building suspense before the revelation of the disastrous events that have unfolded in the battle against the Philistines (which will be revealed in the following verses: the ark of the covenant has been captured, his sons are dead, and Israel has suffered a massive defeat).
Eli's Dependence: Because of his age and failing senses, Eli is reliant on others for information, highlighting his vulnerability.
In summary, this verse is a crucial turning point in the narrative. It creates an atmosphere of dread and sets up the tragic news that Eli is about to receive.