1 Samuel 1:23 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 1:23 mean?

1 Samuel 1:23 shows Elkanah telling his wife Hannah to do what she thinks is best regarding their son Samuel, specifically to wait until she has finished weaning him before bringing him to the house of the LORD, while also expressing a hope that God will fulfill His promise. Hannah then stays home and continues nursing Samuel until he is weaned.

In this verse, Elkanah is speaking to Hannah after she has expressed her desire to dedicate Samuel to the LORD once he is weaned. Elkanah supports her decision, trusting her judgment ("do what seemeth thee good") and also expressing faith that the LORD (יהוה, Yahweh) will "establish his word," meaning God will keep His promise about Samuel. The verse highlights the trust and cooperation between Hannah and Elkanah, as well as their faith in God's faithfulness.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 1:23

• "Establish" (קוּם, qum): This word means to stand, arise, or confirm. Elkanah's use of it ("the LORD establish his word") points to his hope that God will firmly bring about what He has said concerning Samuel, showing faith in God's reliability.
• "Word" (דָּבָר, davar): Here, "word" refers to a specific promise or message from God. Elkanah is likely referring to the assurance Hannah received about having a son, hoping that God's promise will be fully realized.

Why 1 Samuel 1:23 matters

• This verse clarifies that Hannah's decision to delay bringing Samuel to the tabernacle was not out of reluctance, but careful planning and faithfulness to her vow, with her husband's full support.
• Elkanah's words show a balance of personal responsibility ("do what seemeth thee good") and trust in God's action ("the LORD establish his word"), highlighting both human choice and divine faithfulness.
• The verse connects to the larger story by showing the careful and prayerful way Samuel's parents approach dedicating him to God, setting the stage for Samuel's significant role in Israel's history.