I Samuel Chapter 1

Introduction

1^st Samuel is the first half of one long book. It is divided into two books because it was too long to fit on one scroll. Together the scrolls describes important facts about the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David – three men in the service of the Lord. All three men in spite of human flaws, helped to make Israel a great nation. 1^st Samuel is the book of “Great beginnings.”

At the beginning of 1^st Samuel, the nation of Israel was at a religious low point. Even the priesthood was corrupt. Yet, at the mist of widespread corruption, there was a righteous remnant of faithful people who still worshipped God. The worship center of Israel at this time was located at Shiloh. The Tabernacle and Ark of The Covenant were located in this Holy Place (Shiloh).

During this time, the Israelites became dissatisfied with the abusive rule of the judges. The people longed for the glories of a monarchy (One king ruling instead of a group of judges). Other surrounding nations all had kings. Israel was an infant nation that went through pains of war from their neighboring countries. Pains of constant attacks made Israel desire the leadership of its first king – Saul.

The call of God to Samuel came as a young boy. God used Samuel as an instrument for establishing Israel in national crisis. Samuel laid the foundation of the Prophetic office and developed it to the level of Priesthood and a form of Godly Kingship. Although Samuel was never crowned as King – he acted on behalf of “The King of Kings”.

God gave Samuel deep Prophetic insight and inspiration to write and speak His Word. It is said of Samuel that he is the father of the “Great Prophetic Movement”.  Samuel was empowered to anoint the first kings of Israel, Saul and David.

Samuel interpreted the Divine Word of God to the king and people. Besides the Messiah, Samuel was the only individual to hold functioning roles as Prophet, Priest, judge, and undesignated King. The basic message of the book of Samuel is “God rules in the lives of men and nations”. 

The Lord gave Samuel revelation of the coming judgment upon

• A sinful People
• A rebellious nation
• A corrupt priesthood

Samuel spoke as the mouthpiece of God to tell nations that they could find mercy and forgiveness at the hand of God. Samuel is referred to as the last judge and the 1^st Prophet. His existence came forth by the Divine purpose of God.

With all of Samuel’s greatness and importance, the book of Samuel does not begin by discussing his mighty deeds. The 1^st Book of Samuel begins by describing a woman’s relationship with God. This woman’s name is Hannah and she is the mother of Samuel.

Meaning of Hannah

Origin Hebrew

Meaning Grace

Variations Hannah, Hannan, Shanna

The name Hanna finds its roots in the ancient Hebrew language and carries the profound meaning of grace. Derived from the Hebrew word hannan, which denotes favor and kindness, Hanna embodies the concept of divine blessings bestowed upon an individual. This name holds a strong religious connotation, as grace is regarded as a central aspect of spiritual enlightenment and divine intervention in Hebrew traditions. Throughout history, the name Hanna has found prominence in various cultures and eras. In biblical times, it appeared in the story of Hannah, a devout woman who fervently prayed for a child and was ultimately blessed with the birth of the prophet Samuel. This story emphasizes the association of the name Hanna with spiritual devotion, perseverance, and receiving blessings from God.

Stay tuned in for the rest of the Story in 1st Samuel chapter 1.