1 Samuel 2:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 2:21 mean?

1 Samuel 2:21 says that God blessed Hannah, allowing her to have more children—three sons and two daughters—after she had Samuel. Meanwhile, Samuel, the child she had dedicated to God, continued to grow up in the presence of the LORD.

This verse comes after Hannah had prayed earnestly for a child and promised to dedicate him to God if her prayer was answered. The verse highlights that God not only answered her prayer by giving her Samuel but also gave her additional children. It also notes Samuel’s ongoing growth and development in service to God, setting the stage for his future role as a prophet.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 2:21

• "Visited" (פָּקַד, paqad): This word often means to pay attention to or care for someone. Here, it shows that God was actively involved in Hannah’s life, responding to her needs.
• "Grew" (גָּדַל, gadal): This word means to become great or to grow up. It emphasizes Samuel’s physical and spiritual development as he lived before the LORD.

Why 1 Samuel 2:21 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Hannah’s story ended with Samuel’s birth; it shows God’s ongoing kindness to her beyond her first answered prayer.
• The mention of Samuel growing "before the LORD" connects his upbringing directly to God’s presence, highlighting his special role from a young age.
• The verse ties together themes of answered prayer, faithfulness, and God’s generosity, linking Hannah’s personal story to the larger narrative of Israel’s spiritual leadership.