1 Samuel 3:7 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 3:7 mean?

1 Samuel 3:7 explains that Samuel, though serving in the temple, did not yet personally know the LORD, because the LORD’s word had not yet been revealed to him. This verse shows that Samuel had not yet experienced a direct encounter or message from God at this point in his life.

In this scene, Samuel is a young boy serving under Eli the priest. The verse sets the stage for Samuel’s first prophetic experience, making it clear that up to now, he had not received any direct revelation from God. This helps the reader understand why Samuel did not recognize God’s voice when he first heard it.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 3:7

• "know" (יָדַע, yada‘): This word means more than just intellectual knowledge; it often refers to personal experience or relationship. Here, it shows that Samuel had not yet had a personal encounter with the LORD.
• "revealed" (גָּלָה, galah): This word means to uncover or disclose. The verse uses it to explain that God had not yet made Himself or His word known to Samuel in a direct, prophetic way.
• "word" (דָּבָר, davar): This can mean a spoken message or command. The verse points out that Samuel had not yet received any direct communication from God, which is significant for understanding his confusion in the following verses.

Why 1 Samuel 3:7 matters

• This verse clarifies that Samuel’s lack of recognition of God’s voice was not due to disobedience or lack of faith, but because he had never before experienced God’s direct communication.
• It highlights the beginning of Samuel’s prophetic calling, marking a turning point in his relationship with God and in Israel’s history.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by explaining Samuel’s innocence and preparing the reader for the important message he is about to receive from God.