Topical Encyclopedia Samuel stands as one of the most significant figures in the history of Israel, serving as a prophet, priest, and judge during a pivotal era. His life and ministry are chronicled primarily in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel, which detail his role in the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.Birth and Early Life Samuel's account begins with his miraculous birth to Hannah, a devout woman who was initially barren. In her deep anguish, Hannah prayed earnestly to the LORD at the tabernacle in Shiloh, vowing that if God granted her a son, she would dedicate him to the LORD's service all the days of his life (1 Samuel 1:11). God answered her prayer, and she named her son Samuel, meaning "heard of God," acknowledging the divine response to her supplication. True to her vow, Hannah brought Samuel to the tabernacle to serve under Eli the priest once he was weaned (1 Samuel 1:27-28). Calling and Ministry Samuel's calling as a prophet is marked by a divine encounter during his youth. While serving in the tabernacle, the LORD called Samuel by name, and after some initial confusion, Samuel responded, "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). This marked the beginning of his prophetic ministry, as the LORD revealed His word to Samuel, establishing him as a trustworthy prophet throughout Israel (1 Samuel 3:19-21). Samuel's leadership was characterized by his unwavering commitment to God and his role as a mediator between God and the people. He called Israel to repentance and led them in a national revival, urging them to forsake foreign gods and return to the LORD with all their hearts (1 Samuel 7:3-4). Under his guidance, Israel experienced a period of spiritual renewal and military victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:10-13). Role in the Monarchy As Israel clamored for a king to lead them like other nations, Samuel was initially displeased, recognizing their request as a rejection of God's kingship (1 Samuel 8:6-7). Nevertheless, God instructed Samuel to heed the people's demand, and he anointed Saul as Israel's first king (1 Samuel 10:1). Samuel continued to serve as a spiritual advisor to Saul, though their relationship became strained due to Saul's disobedience to God's commands. Samuel's role in the monarchy did not end with Saul. After Saul's repeated failures, God sent Samuel to anoint David, the shepherd boy from Bethlehem, as the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:12-13). This anointing set the stage for David's eventual rise to the throne and the establishment of a dynasty that would lead to the coming of the Messiah. Legacy Samuel's influence extended beyond his lifetime, as he is remembered as a man of prayer, integrity, and faithfulness to God. His life exemplified the role of a prophet as one who speaks God's truth, calls people to repentance, and intercedes on their behalf. Samuel's legacy is further underscored by his inclusion in the "hall of faith" in Hebrews 11:32, where he is commended for his faith and leadership. Samuel's impact on Israel's history is profound, as he navigated the nation through a critical transition and laid the spiritual foundation for the future kingdom. His life and ministry continue to serve as a model of godly leadership and devotion to the LORD. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 3:20,21And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 4:1 Strong's Hebrew 8050. Shemuel -- "name of God," a prophet of Isr.... Origin from shem and el Definition "name of God," a prophet of Isr. ... Samuel, Shemuel. ... el; heard of God; Shemuel, the name of three Israelites -- Samuel, Shemuel. ... /hebrew/8050.htm - 6k Library The Expedition of the Philistines against the Hebrews and the ... The Appointment of a King Over the Israelites, Whose Name was Saul ... Of the Succession of the Line of Kings among the Israelites after ... Concerning the Birth of Samuel; and How He Foretold the Calamity ... The Antiquities of the Jews The Trial of Saul. Samuel --The Child of the Temple. Saul's War with the Amalekites, and Conquest of Them. David the Shepherd Youth. David the Outcast. Resources Who was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the story of Hannah and Samuel? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of 1 Samuel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Samuel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Samuel: A Judge (Leader) of Israel, his Judgment Seat at Beth-El, Gilgal, Mizpeh, and Ramah Samuel: A Prophet of the Israelites Samuel: Anoints David to be King Samuel: Anoints Saul to be King of Israel Samuel: Called up by the Witch of Endor Samuel: Consecrated to God Before his Birth Samuel: Death of; the Lament for Him Samuel: His Integrity As a Judge and Ruler Samuel: His Mother's Song of Thanksgiving Samuel: His Vision Concerning the House of Eli Samuel: Israelites Repent Because of his Reproofs and Warnings Samuel: Makes his Corrupt Sons Judges in Israel Samuel: Ministered in the House of God Samuel: Organizes the Tabernacle Service Samuel: People Desire a King; he Protests Samuel: Renews the Kingdom of Saul Samuel: Reproves Saul; Foretells That his Kingdom Will be Established Samuel: Shelters David While Escaping from Saul Samuel: The Philistines Defeated Through his Intercession and Sacrifices Related Terms |
    |