And he said, What is the thing that the LORD hath said unto thee? I pray thee hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide any thing from me of all the things that he said unto thee.

1 SAMUEL 3:17KJV
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1 Samuel 3:17 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 3:17 mean?

1 Samuel 3:17 records Eli urgently asking Samuel to reveal everything God had told him, warning Samuel not to hide any part of the message. Eli even calls down a curse on Samuel if he withholds anything, showing how seriously he wants to hear the full truth from God.

In this verse, Eli is speaking to the young Samuel after Samuel has received a message from God during the night. Eli, sensing the importance of what Samuel has heard, insists that Samuel be completely honest, even if the message is difficult. The verse shows Eli’s determination to know God’s will, no matter how hard it might be to hear.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 3:17

  • "hide" (כָּסָה, kasah): This word means to cover or conceal. Eli repeats it, stressing that Samuel must not keep anything back, highlighting the seriousness of complete honesty before God.
  • "God" (אֱלֹהִים, elohim): Eli invokes God’s authority and judgment, not just as a figure of speech but as a solemn warning, showing that he sees this as a matter of great spiritual weight.
  • "thing" (דָּבָר, davar): This word can mean "word," "matter," or "thing." Eli wants to know every detail, not just the general message, emphasizing the importance of each part of God’s communication.

Why 1 Samuel 3:17 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Eli was indifferent or passive about God’s word; he is deeply invested in hearing the truth, even if it is painful.
  • The strong language and repeated words highlight the seriousness of prophecy and honesty in delivering God’s messages, especially when the message is difficult.
  • 1 Samuel 3:17 sets up the following verses, where Samuel bravely tells Eli everything, showing Samuel’s faithfulness and Eli’s willingness to accept God’s will.

Where else these words appear

“hide” Hebrew H3582 · used in 30 verses

  • Genesis 47:18 When that year was ended, they came unto him the second year, and said unto him, We will not hide it from my lord, how that our money is spent; my lord also hath our herds of cattle; there is not ought left in the sight of my lord, but our bodies, and our lands:
  • Job 4:7 Remember, I pray thee, who ever perished, being innocent? or where were the righteous cut off?
  • Psalms 83:4 They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance.