1 Samuel 1:4

Letters to the Faithful - 1 Samuel 1:4

Berean Standard Bible

And whenever the day came for Elkanah to present his sacrifice, he would give portions to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.

King James Bible

And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:

Hebrew Text: 

וַיְהִ֣י הַיּ֔וֹם וַיִּזְבַּ֖ח אֶלְקָנָ֑ה וְנָתַ֞ן לִפְנִנָּ֣ה אִשְׁתּ֗וֹ וּֽלְכָל־בָּנֶ֛יהָ וּבְנוֹתֶ֖יהָ מָנֽוֹת׃

Transliteration: 

Vayehi hayyom vayizbaḥ Elkanah venatan li-Feninnah ishto u-lekhol baneha u-benoteha manot.

--------------------------------

And whenever the day came for Elkanah to present his sacrifice

This phrase indicates a regular, recurring event, likely tied to the annual pilgrimage to Shiloh, where the tabernacle was located. Elkanah, a devout man, followed the Mosaic Law, which required sacrifices and offerings at the central place of worship. This reflects the religious practices of ancient Israel, where families would travel to offer sacrifices, a practice rooted in Deuteronomy 12:5-7. The act of presenting a sacrifice was a demonstration of obedience and devotion to God, and it underscores the importance of worship in the life of an Israelite family.

he would give portions to his wife Peninnah

Elkanah's distribution of portions to Peninnah signifies the sharing of the sacrificial meal, a common practice after offering sacrifices. This act was not only a religious duty but also a familial one, ensuring that all members of the household participated in the blessings of the sacrifice. Peninnah, as one of Elkanah's wives, received her share, highlighting the polygamous practices of the time, which were culturally accepted though often fraught with tension, as seen in the narrative of Sarah and Hagar in Genesis 16.

and to all her sons and daughters

The mention of Peninnah's sons and daughters emphasizes her fertility, contrasting with Hannah's barrenness, which is a central theme in the narrative. In ancient Israel, children were considered a blessing from God, and a large family was a sign of divine favor. This cultural context sets the stage for the tension between Peninnah and Hannah, as Peninnah's fruitful womb stands in stark contrast to Hannah's childlessness, echoing the stories of other biblical matriarchs like Rachel and Leah in Genesis 29-30. The distribution of portions to Peninnah's children also reflects the communal aspect of worship and the importance of family unity in religious observance.

----------------------------

1 Samuel 1:4, in the New International Version, states, “Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.” This verse, nestled within the opening narrative of 1 Samuel, introduces a key moment in the story of Hannah, Samuel’s mother, and sets the stage for the personal and theological drama that unfolds. The chapter describes Elkanah’s family, a devout Israelite household, making an annual pilgrimage to Shiloh to worship and offer sacrifices at the sanctuary. The verse highlights Elkanah’s practice of distributing sacrificial portions, revealing family dynamics, cultural practices, and theological themes central to the narrative. For its original audience, likely post-exilic Israelites reflecting on their covenant identity, this verse underscores God’s sovereignty over human circumstances and foreshadows His redemptive work through Samuel. To fully unpack its significance, we must explore its literary context, cultural setting, theological implications, and enduring relevance, while connecting it to broader biblical themes.

The verse is set within the annual rhythm of Elkanah’s family worship at Shiloh, the religious center of Israel during the period of the judges (Judges 21:19). The phrase “whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice” indicates a recurring event, likely tied to one of the major festivals prescribed in the Torah, such as Passover, Pentecost, or Tabernacles (Deuteronomy 16:16). Sacrifices were communal acts, involving offerings to God and the sharing of portions among the worshipers, as outlined in Leviticus 7:15-18 for peace offerings. Elkanah’s role as the family head in offering the sacrifice reflects his piety and adherence to covenant worship, setting a contrast with the corrupt priesthood at Shiloh under Eli’s sons (1 Samuel 2:12-17). For the original audience, this detail would establish Elkanah as a faithful Israelite, grounding the narrative in the covenantal practices that defined their identity, even in a time of spiritual and political instability (Judges 21:25).

The act of giving “portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters” highlights the family structure and the cultural significance of the sacrificial meal. In ancient Israel, the peace offering was partially burned on the altar, with portions returned to the offerer for a communal feast (Leviticus 3:1-17). Distributing portions was a practical and symbolic act, affirming family unity and God’s provision. Peninnah, Elkanah’s second wife, and her children receive portions, indicating their full inclusion in the covenant meal. The emphasis on “all her sons and daughters” underscores Peninnah’s fertility, a point of contrast with Hannah, who is barren (1 Samuel 1:2). In a patriarchal society where a woman’s value was often tied to childbearing (Genesis 30:1), this detail sets up the tension that drives the narrative: Hannah’s childlessness and Peninnah’s provocation (1 Samuel 1:6). For the original audience, familiar with the cultural importance of progeny, this would evoke sympathy for Hannah and highlight the social pressures she faced.

Theologically, the verse subtly introduces God’s sovereignty over human affairs, a central theme in 1 Samuel. While the verse focuses on Elkanah’s actions, the broader context points to God’s control over fertility and family dynamics. Hannah’s barrenness, noted earlier (1 Samuel 1:2), is not attributed to chance but to God’s will (1 Samuel 1:5, “the Lord had closed her womb”). The contrast between Peninnah’s many children and Hannah’s lack of offspring sets the stage for God’s intervention, as He will open Hannah’s womb to birth Samuel, Israel’s future prophet and judge (1 Samuel 1:20). This echoes biblical narratives where God reverses barrenness to fulfill His purposes, such as Sarah (Genesis 21:1-2) and Rachel (Genesis 30:22-24). For the original audience, likely reflecting on their own national restoration after exile, this would affirm God’s power to bring life and hope from seemingly hopeless situations, reinforcing their trust in His covenant promises.

Culturally, the verse reflects the realities of polygamous households in ancient Israel, a practice permitted but not idealized in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 21:15-17). Elkanah’s two wives, Hannah and Peninnah, mirror the dynamics of Jacob’s family, where rivalry between Leah and Rachel fueled tension (Genesis 30:1-8). Peninnah’s fertility and her receipt of multiple portions contrast with Hannah’s single portion (1 Samuel 1:5), amplifying the emotional and social disparity between them. The sacrificial meal, meant to be a joyful occasion, becomes a setting for Hannah’s pain, as Peninnah’s provocation intensifies her distress (1 Samuel 1:6-7). For the post-exilic audience, this human drama would resonate, as they navigated their own communal and personal struggles to reestablish identity in a restored yet challenging land. The verse also subtly critiques the corruption at Shiloh, as the proper distribution of portions by Elkanah contrasts with the priests’ later abuse of sacrificial offerings (1 Samuel 2:13-16).

Practically, 1 Samuel 1:4 invites reflection on faithfulness in worship and the complexities of human relationships within God’s providence. Elkanah’s commitment to sacrifice at Shiloh models devotion, encouraging the original audience to prioritize covenant worship despite societal chaos. For modern readers, it challenges us to engage in worship as a communal act of trust, even when personal circumstances, like Hannah’s, are painful. The verse also highlights the reality of familial tension, acknowledging that even devout households face strife. Hannah’s marginalization due to barrenness parallels modern experiences of exclusion or unfulfilled longing, inviting believers to trust God’s timing and purposes. The emphasis on Peninnah’s children foreshadows God’s reversal in Hannah’s favor, offering hope that God sees and acts in the lives of the afflicted (1 Samuel 1:11).

In the broader context of 1 Samuel, this verse sets up the narrative arc of God’s redemptive work through Hannah’s son, Samuel, who will lead Israel during a transitional period from judges to monarchy. It introduces themes of divine faithfulness, human struggle, and the power of prayer, as Hannah’s subsequent vow (1 Samuel 1:11) leads to Samuel’s birth and dedication. For the original audience, the verse would underscore God’s ability to work through ordinary families to accomplish His purposes, a message of hope for a people seeking renewal. For contemporary readers, 1 Samuel 1:4 offers a reminder that God’s plans unfold amidst human imperfection, using even painful circumstances to bring about His redemptive purposes. Its focus on worship, family, and divine sovereignty invites us to trust God’s provision and timing, knowing that He weaves human stories into His greater narrative of salvation.

-------------------------------

Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. It is with a weight of reverence and love that I write to you, longing that these words may stir your spirits to devotion, awaken your hearts to hope, and draw your eyes upward to the faithfulness of the God who sees, hears, and remembers.

I urge you now, dear brothers and sisters, to pause and reflect upon the sacred pages of the Scripture, in particular upon the tender and powerful narrative preserved for us in the first book of Samuel, in that seemingly small verse—chapter one, verse four—which reads: “Whenever Elkanah offered a sacrifice, he gave portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.”

Though to some this verse may appear as a simple note of routine or ritual, we find embedded within it a truth that pulses with eternal relevance: that every offering carries within it a message, and every portion a witness of something deeper than custom—it is a mirror of the heart, a reflection of unseen struggles, and a pointer to the God who dwells among us.

Elkanah, a man of his time, went up yearly to worship and sacrifice to the Lord of hosts at Shiloh. He did not neglect the altar. He did not ignore the requirements of the law. He brought his family to the house of the Lord and presented his sacrifice with faithful hands. Yet it is not the act alone that speaks—it is the context of his household. For Elkanah had two wives: Peninnah, who had children, and Hannah, who had none. And here, in this domestic divide, we witness the tension that many of us carry in the silence of our souls—the tension between outward obedience and inward sorrow.

It is in this holy place, at the point of sacrifice, that life reveals its paradoxes. For while Peninnah received her portion, and her sons and daughters received theirs, it was Hannah—barren, ridiculed, broken—who bore the ache of unanswered prayers. It is often so: the portion may be shared at the table, yet the heart can still hunger for something more. Many among you know this hunger. You labor in worship. You present your offering. You gather with the saints. You give and serve and sing. And yet, there is a hidden grief, a private ache, a yearning not yet fulfilled.

But do not despair, beloved. For the Spirit of the Lord who brooded over the waters in creation now broods over your soul. He sees the ache of the faithful. He knows the wounds behind your worship. And He does not forget.

Hannah’s story does not remain in barrenness. Though she received no child in that moment, she received something greater—an invitation to pour out her soul before the Lord. Her grief became her prayer. Her longing became the soil for a miracle. And so must ours. The offering Elkanah gave, though necessary, could not reach the depths of Hannah’s need. But the Lord could. And He did.

Therefore, I call upon you, dear saints of God: offer your sacrifices—not only the outward acts of worship, but the inner pouring out of your soul. Let your honesty rise like incense. Come before the Lord not merely with words, but with your wounds. He is not weary of your weeping. He does not reject the groanings that cannot be uttered. Bring your silent pain. Bring your deferred hopes. Bring even your envy, if you must. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and He saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Do not measure your value by the portion others receive. You may see others prosper, bear fruit, succeed in ministry, raise families, or flourish in ways you’ve only dared to imagine. But hear this: God is writing a testimony in your tears. And what He births in the hidden place, in the wilderness of delay, will have greater weight and purpose than what is produced in ease. Samuel—the answer to Hannah’s prayer—was not just a child. He was a prophet. A priest. A forerunner of kings. He was the fruit of a woman who dared to pray bitter prayers and remain faithful in the silence.

So I exhort you: remain faithful. Return to the house of the Lord. Do not forsake the place of offering, even when your hands tremble and your heart feels empty. The Lord will remember you. And not in some vague or distant way, but with power, precision, and compassion. He will fill what is barren. He will redeem what is broken. He will exalt the humble and quiet the taunts of those who scorn you.

And let us also examine our hearts, for we may be Peninnah as well as Hannah. If we have received portions and blessings, let us not provoke or boast, but walk in humility, understanding that all good things come from above. If we are stewards of abundance, let our abundance be a comfort to others, not a cause of pain. Let our words build up and not tear down. Let our hearts be soft toward the sorrow of others. And let us be ministers of mercy, agents of encouragement, and bearers of hope to those still waiting.

I pray, therefore, that this word would settle deeply in your spirits: your sacrifice is not unseen. Your longing is not in vain. Your waiting is not wasted. The Lord is both witness and rewarder. The altar may be shared, but your portion is prepared by the hand of God. Trust Him. He will not delay without reason, and He will not fulfill without glory.

May the God of all comfort, who raised the barren womb to birth a prophet, strengthen your hearts, renew your hope, and bring you peace that surpasses understanding. Hold fast, beloved. The time of remembrance is near.

-----------------------------------

Almighty and Everlasting God, our Father and our Refuge, You who dwell in unapproachable light yet stoop to hear the cries of Your children, we come before You now with hearts lifted and bowed, drawn by the testimony of Your Word and the longing of our souls.

You are the God who sees beyond outward forms and beyond the portions handed out at human tables. You see the hidden heart. You discern the motives of every sacrifice. You know the ones who come with hands full and those who come with empty hands and weary hearts. You know those who sing with joy and those whose praise is mingled with tears.

O Lord of Hosts, we recall the day when Elkanah brought his offering to You. With faithfulness, he gave portions to Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters. Yet within his house there was sorrow—Hannah, his beloved, received a portion, but not yet the desire of her heart. Even as the feast was laid before her, her soul hungered for what no human hand could provide. And so today, Lord, we bring before You all who likewise live between outward provision and inward longing.

We pray for the faithful among us whose service continues despite unfulfilled prayers. For those who give and worship and serve, yet carry the ache of delay. For those who walk among the crowd but feel alone in their struggle. For those who hear the laughter of others but whose own hearts tremble in the silence of waiting. Lord, be near to them. Whisper Your love in the unseen places. Strengthen their weary frames. Assure them that their portion is not forgotten in Your sight.

We ask, O God, that You would awaken within us a deeper trust—not in the visible portions of life, but in the unseen purposes of Your heart. Teach us to value our inheritance in You above any earthly gift. May our joy be rooted in Your presence, not in circumstances. May our worship flow from who You are, not merely from what we have received.

Grant us the grace, Lord, to come to Your altar again and again, even when the outcome remains unseen. Just as Hannah rose to pour out her soul before You, may we find the courage to lay bare our hearts without pretense. Give us holy boldness to weep before You, knowing that You do not despise the tears of the righteous. Turn our grief into prayer. Turn our longing into the soil of faith. May our unanswered prayers become the place where deep communion with You is forged.

And Lord, for those among us who, like Peninnah, have been blessed with many portions, teach us humility and compassion. Let us not provoke or boast, but remember that every good and perfect gift comes from Your hand. May we become vessels of encouragement, not of envy or pride. May our words lift up the brokenhearted and our lives testify of Your mercy.

We ask for a holy patience in the waiting. May hope anchor our souls as we trust in Your timing. Let us not grow weary in well-doing, nor forsake the gathering of Your people, nor neglect the altar of sacrifice. May every offering—whether in abundance or in want—rise before You as a fragrant incense of love.

O God who remembered Hannah and opened her womb in the fullness of time, so remember all who wait upon You today. May they behold Your goodness in the land of the living. And when You answer, may we, like Hannah, return with thanksgiving, dedicating every blessing to Your glory. For You alone are worthy of honor, praise, and devotion.

So now, Father of compassion, seal this prayer in our hearts. Let it bear fruit in our lives. Knit us together as one people—those with portions abundant and those with longings unfulfilled—so that in all things, through joy and through sorrow, Christ may be exalted in us.

We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, our Intercessor, and our coming King. Amen.

1 Samuel 1:3

Letters to the Faithful - 1 Samuel 1:3

Berean Standard Bible

Year after year Elkanah would go up from his city to worship and sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts at Shiloh, where Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests to the LORD.

King James Bible

And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there.

Hebrew Text: 

וְעָלָה֩ הָאִ֨ישׁ הַה֤וּא מֵֽעִירוֹ֙ מִיָּמִ֣ים ׀ יָמִ֔ימָה לְהִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֧ת וְלִזְבֹּ֛חַ לַיהוָ֥ה צְבָא֖וֹת בְּשִׁלֹ֑ה וְשָׁ֞ם שְׁנֵ֣י בְנֵֽי־עֵלִ֗י חָפְנִי֙ וּפִ֣נְחָ֔ס כֹּהֲנִ֖ים לַיהוָֽה׃

Transliteration: 

Və-‘ālāh hā-’îš ha-hū mê-‘î-rōw mi-yā-mîm yā-mî-māh lə-hiš-ta-ḥă-wōṯ wə-liz-bō-aḥ la-Yah-weh ṣə-ḇā-’ō-wṯ bə-ši-lōh wə-šām šə-nê ḇə-nê-‘ê-lî ḥā-p̄ə-nî ū-p̄in-ḥās kō-hă-nîm la-Yah-weh

--------------------------------------

Year after year

This phrase indicates a regular, faithful practice of worship and sacrifice, highlighting the importance of consistent devotion in the life of a believer. It reflects the Jewish tradition of attending the annual feasts, such as Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles, as commanded in Deuteronomy 16:16. This regularity underscores the importance of perseverance in faith and obedience to God's commands.

Elkanah would go up from his city

Elkanah, a Levite, lived in Ramathaim-Zophim, in the hill country of Ephraim. His journey "up" to Shiloh reflects the geographical elevation of Shiloh, which was a central place of worship before the establishment of Jerusalem as the religious center. This pilgrimage signifies a commitment to worship despite the distance, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual duties.

to worship and sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts

The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over the heavenly armies, reflecting His majesty and authority. Worship and sacrifice were central to Israelite religion, serving as acts of devotion and atonement. This practice connects to the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

at Shiloh

Shiloh was the religious center of Israel before the temple was built in Jerusalem. It housed the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant, making it a significant location for worship. Archaeological evidence supports Shiloh's role as a religious center during this period. The presence of the Ark signifies God's dwelling among His people, a precursor to the incarnation of Christ, Emmanuel, "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).

where Eli’s two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests to the LORD

Hophni and Phinehas, sons of Eli, served as priests but were corrupt, as detailed in 1 Samuel 2:12-17. Their behavior contrasts with the holiness required of priests, highlighting the need for righteous leadership. This situation sets the stage for God's judgment and the eventual rise of Samuel, a faithful servant. The corruption of the priesthood points to the need for a perfect High Priest, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is holy, blameless, and pure (Hebrews 7:26).

----------------------------------

1 Samuel 1:3, which reads, “Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the Lord Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the Lord,” serves as a foundational verse in the narrative of 1 Samuel, introducing key themes of worship, faithfulness, and the religious context of Israel during a transitional period. Positioned within the opening chapter, which recounts the story of Hannah and the birth of Samuel, this verse provides critical insight into the character of Elkanah, the setting of Shiloh, and the corrupt priesthood, setting the stage for God’s intervention in Israel’s history. To fully unpack its significance, we must explore its literary and historical context, the theological implications of its details, its role in the broader narrative, and its relevance for the original audience and contemporary readers, all while connecting it to the scriptural storyline.

The verse is embedded in the introduction of 1 Samuel 1, which shifts the biblical narrative from the chaotic period of the judges to the emergence of the monarchy. The book of 1 Samuel bridges the tribal confederacy of Israel, marked by cycles of apostasy and deliverance (Judges 21:25), to the establishment of kingship under Saul and David. Chapter 1 focuses on Elkanah’s family, particularly Hannah’s barrenness and her vow to dedicate her son to God, leading to Samuel’s birth. Verse 1:3 establishes Elkanah’s piety and the religious environment at Shiloh, contrasting his faithfulness with the spiritual decline exemplified by Eli’s sons. For the original audience—likely Israelites during or after the monarchy, possibly in the exilic or post-exilic period—this verse would have resonated as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to those who seek Him, even in times of national and religious dysfunction.

The phrase “year after year this man went up” highlights Elkanah’s consistent devotion. The Hebrew verb *‘alah* (to go up) reflects the physical ascent to Shiloh, located in the hill country of Ephraim, and carries spiritual significance, as “going up” often denotes approaching God’s presence (e.g., Psalm 122:1). Elkanah’s annual pilgrimage from his town, Ramathaim (likely Ramah, 1 Samuel 1:1), demonstrates his commitment to covenant worship, likely tied to one of the three major festivals—Passover, Pentecost, or Tabernacles—mandated in the Torah (Deuteronomy 16:16). The regularity of his journey underscores his faithfulness, a stark contrast to the moral and spiritual laxity of the period, where “everyone did as they saw fit” (Judges 21:25). For the original audience, Elkanah’s example would have served as a model of steadfast devotion, encouraging perseverance in worship despite personal or societal challenges.

The purpose of Elkanah’s journey, “to worship and sacrifice to the Lord Almighty at Shiloh,” emphasizes the centrality of worship in Israel’s covenant relationship with God. The Hebrew term for worship, *hishtachawah*, implies bowing down or prostrating oneself, signifying submission and reverence. Sacrifice (*zavach*) refers to offerings, likely peace offerings (Leviticus 3), which included communal meals, as suggested by the family’s eating in Shiloh (1 Samuel 1:4). The divine title “Lord Almighty” (*YHWH tzeva’ot*, Lord of Hosts) is significant, appearing here for the first time in the Hebrew Bible in a narrative context. It portrays God as the commander of heavenly armies, sovereign over all creation, a fitting designation in a book that depicts God’s authority over Israel’s enemies and His establishment of a king. Shiloh, the religious center of Israel during the judges’ period, housed the tabernacle and the ark of the covenant (Joshua 18:1; 1 Samuel 4:3), making it the focal point of worship before the temple’s construction in Jerusalem. For the original audience, Shiloh’s prominence would have evoked both reverence for its historical role and awareness of its eventual destruction (Jeremiah 7:12), signaling God’s judgment on unfaithfulness.

The mention of “Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the Lord” introduces a critical tension in the narrative. Eli, the high priest and judge, oversaw worship at Shiloh, but his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are later revealed to be corrupt, exploiting their priestly roles by seizing sacrificial portions and engaging in immorality (1 Samuel 2:12-17, 22). Their designation as “priests of the Lord” is factual but ironic, as their actions betray their calling. The Hebrew term *kohanim* (priests) underscores their official role, mediating between God and the people, yet their behavior contrasts sharply with Elkanah’s piety and foreshadows the need for reform, which Samuel will bring as prophet, priest, and judge. For the original audience, familiar with the priesthood’s importance (Leviticus 8-9), this reference would have highlighted the spiritual crisis of the time, setting the stage for God’s intervention through Samuel and, later, David’s line.

The verse’s role in the narrative is multifaceted. First, it establishes Elkanah’s character as a faithful worshiper, providing a backdrop for Hannah’s devotion and Samuel’s dedication. His annual pilgrimage reflects the covenantal framework of Deuteronomy, where worship at the central sanctuary strengthens Israel’s identity (Deuteronomy 12:5-7). Second, it situates the story in Shiloh, linking the family’s personal struggles to the national religious context, where corruption threatens Israel’s covenant relationship. Third, it introduces the theme of divine sovereignty, as the “Lord Almighty” will act to raise up Samuel, judge the house of Eli (1 Samuel 3:11-14), and guide Israel toward kingship. The contrast between Elkanah’s faithfulness and the priests’ corruption underscores God’s ability to work through ordinary individuals to accomplish His purposes, a recurring motif in 1 Samuel (e.g., David’s rise from shepherd to king).

Theologically, 1 Samuel 1:3 affirms God’s worthiness of worship and His sovereignty over history. Elkanah’s consistent pilgrimage reflects the call to love and serve God wholeheartedly (Deuteronomy 6:5), a principle that resonates throughout Scripture. The title “Lord Almighty” emphasizes God’s power to fulfill His promises, even in a dysfunctional religious system. The verse also introduces the tension between human failure and divine faithfulness, as Hophni and Phinehas’ corruption contrasts with God’s plan to raise up Samuel. For the original audience, this would have offered hope that God could renew Israel despite its leaders’ shortcomings, a message particularly poignant during the monarchy or exile, when national failures were evident.

Historically and culturally, the verse reflects the religious practices of pre-monarchic Israel. Shiloh’s role as the central sanctuary aligns with archaeological evidence of a cultic site in the region during the 11th century BCE, before its destruction, possibly by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4). The annual pilgrimage mirrors practices in other ancient Near Eastern cultures, where festivals reinforced communal identity, but Israel’s worship was distinct in its focus on the one true God. The mention of Hophni and Phinehas would have evoked the dangers of priestly abuse, a concern in later biblical texts (e.g., Malachi 2:1-9) and relevant to the original audience, who may have experienced corrupt leadership. The verse thus serves as a critique of religious hypocrisy, calling for integrity in worship and leadership.

In the broader biblical narrative, 1 Samuel 1:3 connects the judges’ period to the monarchy and beyond. The decline of Eli’s house and the rise of Samuel prefigure the transition from tribal leadership to centralized authority under Saul and David, fulfilling God’s promise to establish a kingdom (Genesis 17:6). The title “Lord Almighty” recurs in prophetic texts (e.g., Isaiah 6:3), affirming God’s sovereignty over nations, while the theme of faithful worship echoes in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 95:6). In the New Testament, Jesus’ cleansing of the temple (John 2:13-17) parallels the critique of corrupt religious practices, and the church’s call to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24) reflects Elkanah’s devotion. Samuel’s birth, facilitated by Hannah’s prayer in the context of Shiloh’s worship, foreshadows the birth of Christ, through whom God’s redemptive plan is fulfilled.

Practically, 1 Samuel 1:3 challenges believers to maintain faithful worship amidst personal and societal challenges. Elkanah’s annual pilgrimage, despite Hannah’s barrenness and the priesthood’s corruption, models perseverance in seeking God. For the original audience, it encouraged steadfastness in covenant worship, even under flawed leadership. For contemporary readers, it invites reflection on the priority of worship, the need for integrity in spiritual leadership, and trust in God’s sovereignty to work through imperfect systems. The verse also calls communities to support one another in faithfulness, as Elkanah’s devotion sets the stage for Hannah’s vow and Samuel’s ministry.

In conclusion, 1 Samuel 1:3 is a rich and layered verse that introduces the themes of worship, faithfulness, and divine sovereignty in a time of spiritual decline. By highlighting Elkanah’s piety, the centrality of Shiloh, and the corruption of Hophni and Phinehas, it sets the stage for God’s redemptive work through Samuel and beyond. For the original audience, it offered hope and a call to covenant fidelity, affirming God’s power to renew His people. For modern readers, it underscores the enduring importance of worship, the dangers of spiritual compromise, and the assurance that the “Lord Almighty” remains faithful to His purposes. As part of the biblical story, 1 Samuel 1:3 points to God’s unfolding plan, culminating in Christ, who calls all to worship Him in truth and righteousness.

-------------------------------------

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I write to you today with a heart full of encouragement and longing, that you may be strengthened in your walk with the Lord and steadfast in the pursuit of His presence. As it is written in the Scripture, *“Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the Lord Almighty at Shiloh...”* (1 Samuel 1:3). In this simple yet profound sentence lies a rich tapestry of faithfulness, devotion, and spiritual truth that speaks with clarity to us in these present days.

Beloved, consider the life of Elkanah, a man whose heart was set upon honoring the Lord through the consistent rhythms of worship. Though the culture around him was often marked by spiritual compromise and distraction—as ours is today—Elkanah chose the way of covenant loyalty. He went up *year after year* to the house of the Lord, not out of mere duty, but from a desire to bring himself and his family before the presence of the Almighty. His journey to Shiloh was an act of surrender, of recognition that life flows from the Lord and must continually be offered back to Him.

So it must be with us. In a world that clamors for our attention and tempts us toward convenience and self-reliance, the call of Christ beckons us to intentional and persevering worship. We are invited—indeed commanded—not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together but to approach the throne of grace with confidence, again and again. This is not about attending a building out of ritualistic obligation, but about cultivating a life that revolves around the presence and purposes of God.

Elkanah’s journey was annual, marked by seasons. Likewise, there will be seasons in your life—times of joy, times of sorrow, times of abundance, times of lack. Yet in every season, the invitation remains: return to the Lord, come before Him with your whole heart. Do not allow the ebb and flow of circumstances to dictate your devotion. Let there be a holy rhythm in your life where worship, prayer, and offering yourself to God are not intermittent or reactionary, but steady and faithful.

Notice too that Elkanah brought sacrifices when he came. Worship is not passive; it involves offering. In our new covenant reality, we no longer bring animals to the altar, for Christ our perfect sacrifice has already been offered once for all. Yet still we bring ourselves. We present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. We offer our time, our talents, our treasures, and most of all, our hearts. Do not come before the Lord empty-handed; bring your love, your trust, your repentance, your praise.

Furthermore, Elkanah’s journey involved his household. He did not worship alone but led his family in the way of the Lord. In our day, the call to spiritual leadership within homes is urgent. Fathers, mothers, mentors, friends—let your faith be visible and contagious. Teach the next generation to love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. The example of consistent, joyful worship will speak volumes more than mere words.

Now, take to heart that Elkanah’s life was not without trouble. His wife Hannah carried deep sorrow and unfulfilled longing. Even as they went up to worship, she was burdened with grief. This reminds us that worship is not reserved for the moments when life feels perfect; it is the lifeline in the midst of our brokenness. The house of the Lord is a place where we pour out our hearts before God, as Hannah did. Bring your pain, your disappointment, your unanswered prayers to Him, for He is a compassionate and listening Father.

Beloved, let us learn from this faithful man of old. Let us be those who prioritize the presence of God above all. Let us rise again and again, season after season, day after day, to draw near to the One who is our life and our hope. When you are weary, still go up to worship. When you are rejoicing, go up to worship. When you feel unworthy, go up to worship. For in His presence there is fullness of joy, and at His right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Practically, I exhort you to establish regular rhythms of communion with God. Set apart times for personal prayer and Scripture meditation. Participate faithfully in the gathered worship of the saints. Teach your family and friends the value of seeking God together. Cultivate a heart that delights in the things of the Spirit more than the fleeting distractions of this age.

In all this, remember that your perseverance is not in vain. Year after year, as you go up to the Lord, He is shaping you, sustaining you, and preparing you for His purposes. Your steadfast devotion, like Elkanah’s, will bear fruit in ways you cannot yet see. For our God is faithful to those who seek Him diligently.

May the Lord strengthen your resolve, deepen your love for His presence, and fill your life with His peace. I pray that you, like Elkanah, will be known as one who continually draws near to the living God, bringing yourself and others into the light of His glorious grace.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

--------------------------------

O Eternal and Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth, You who are enthroned above all creation, we come before You with hearts bowed in reverence and awe, seeking Your presence as Elkanah went up yearly to worship and sacrifice at Shiloh, to the Lord of hosts. Your name is holy, Your power boundless, and Your mercy unending, and we, Your people, gather in the spirit of unity and devotion to lift our voices in prayer, trusting in Your sovereign grace. As we reflect on Your faithfulness in the days of old, we are reminded of Your steadfast love that calls us to draw near, to offer our lives as living sacrifices, and to seek Your face with sincerity and hope. You are the God who sees, the One who knows the depths of every heart, and we approach Your throne with boldness and humility, longing to be transformed by Your Spirit.

Lord of hosts, You who command the armies of heaven and hold all things in Your hand, we stand in awe of Your majesty and power. Just as the priests Hophni and Phinehas served in Your house, we acknowledge that You have called us to be a royal priesthood, a people set apart to proclaim Your glory. Yet we confess our shortcomings, our distractions, and our failures to honor You fully. Forgive us, O God, for the moments when we have strayed from Your path, when our worship has been half-hearted, or when our lives have not reflected the radiance of Your truth. Cleanse us by the blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and renew in us a steadfast spirit, that we may offer You the worship You deserve—pure, fervent, and wholehearted.

We lift before You the cries of Your people, for You are the God who hears the prayers of the broken, the hopeful, and the weary. As Hannah poured out her soul in Your presence, we too bring our burdens, our dreams, and our deepest longings. For those who are grieving, grant comfort that surpasses understanding. For those who are sick, extend Your healing hand. For those who feel lost or far from You, draw them near by the gentle whisper of Your Spirit. We pray for the lonely, that they may find community in Your body; for the oppressed, that they may know Your justice; and for the weary, that they may find rest in Your promises. You are the God who turns mourning into dancing, who brings life from barrenness, and who fulfills the desires of those who seek You. Let Your kingdom come in every heart, every home, and every nation.

O God of all creation, we pray for Your church, the bride of Christ, called to shine as a light in the darkness. Strengthen Your people to walk in unity, to love one another deeply, and to proclaim Your gospel with courage and compassion. Where division threatens, bring reconciliation. Where complacency lingers, stir a holy fire. Where fear holds sway, grant boldness rooted in Your truth. Equip Your servants—pastors, teachers, missionaries, and all who labor for Your name—to carry Your word with wisdom and grace. May we, like Elkanah, be faithful in our devotion, returning again and again to Your presence, trusting that You are working all things for Your glory and our good.

We lift up the nations, O Lord, knowing that You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. Guide those in authority, that they may govern with justice and humility. Bring peace where there is strife, hope where there is despair, and truth where there is deception. Let Your Spirit move across the earth, awakening hearts to Your salvation and drawing all people to the cross of Christ. We pray for those who have not yet known You, that they may encounter Your love through the witness of Your people. Use us, Lord, as vessels of Your mercy, ambassadors of Your grace, and bearers of Your light in a world that so desperately needs You.

Father, we thank You for Your unchanging nature, for Your promises that never fail, and for Your love that endures forever. You are the same God who met Your people at Shiloh, who heard Hannah’s cry, and who sent Your Son to redeem us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we may walk in Your truth, live for Your glory, and love with Your heart. Teach us to worship You in spirit and in truth, to offer our lives as a fragrant offering, and to trust in Your perfect will. As we go forth, keep us steadfast in faith, unwavering in hope, and abounding in love, until the day when we see You face to face and join the eternal chorus of praise in Your heavenly kingdom.

In the precious and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we pray. Amen.