1 Samuel 2:26 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 2:26 mean?

1 Samuel 2:26 describes how the boy Samuel continued to grow and was well-liked by both the LORD and by people around him. The verse highlights Samuel’s positive reputation and spiritual development as he served at the tabernacle.

This verse sits in the story of young Samuel, who was dedicated to God by his mother Hannah and served under Eli the priest. While the sons of Eli were behaving badly, Samuel was growing up in a way that pleased both God and the community. The verse sets Samuel apart as someone whose life was marked by steady growth and favor.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 2:26

• "child" (נַעַר, na‘ar): This word refers to a young boy or youth, emphasizing Samuel’s age and the fact that his character was already being noticed even as a child.
• "grew" (גָּדֵל, gadal): This word means to grow or become great, pointing not just to physical growth but also to Samuel’s increasing maturity and importance.
• "favour" (טוֹב, tov): This word is often translated as "goodness" or "favor," and here it means Samuel was seen as good or pleasing, both by God and by people.

Why 1 Samuel 2:26 matters

• The verse draws a clear contrast between Samuel and Eli’s sons, who were corrupt, showing that Samuel’s life was moving in a different, positive direction.
• The mention of favor with both God and people echoes later descriptions of Jesus (Luke 2:52), highlighting a pattern of God’s approval and human respect in the lives of those He chooses.
• This verse reassures the reader that even in difficult or corrupt times, someone can still grow in goodness and be recognized for it by both God and others.