1 Samuel 1:17 - Meaning and Interpretation

Verse: 1 Samuel 1:17 - "Then Eli answered and said, 'Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him.'"

Overview

This verse encapsulates a moment of prophetic interaction between Eli and Hannah, who earnestly prayed for a child. Eli's response reflects the themes of faith, intercession, and divine blessing.

Bible Verse Meanings

• Divine Assurance: Eli's blessing signifies a divine endorsement of Hannah's prayer, emphasizing the importance of faith in God’s promises.
• Intercessory Prayer: The passage highlights Hannah's deep yearning and the power of prayer. It encourages believers to present their requests confidently before God.
• God's Sovereignty: It illustrates God's authority in granting petitions, reminding us that all answers come from His will.

Bible Verse Interpretations

Commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide in-depth insights into the implications of this verse:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the importance of Eli's position as a priest and the weight of his blessing, which signifies God’s will being communicated to Hannah. He notes that the peace granted by Eli reflects God's mercy and assurance.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes focuses on the significance of peace in Eli's response, asserting that true peace comes from God along with the fulfillment of one's desires. He also highlights the notion of hope that Eli inspires in Hannah.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke observes the physical and spiritual dimensions of this passage. He ties the act of prayer to the fulfillment of God's promises, considering Eli a mediator who speaks blessings into Hannah's life.

Bible Verse Understanding

The understanding of this verse extends beyond Eli and Hannah's conversation. It invites the reader to explore:

• The Role of Prayer: It serves as an encouragement for believers to pour out their hearts in prayer, trusting in God’s faithfulness.
• The Importance of Community: Eli's role highlights the communal aspect of faith and prayer, reminding us of the importance of seeking counsel from spiritual leaders.

Bible Verse Explanation

This verse serves multiple purposes in the context of Scripture:

• Contextual Significance: It reflects the historical context of Israel's spiritual climate during the time of judges, where prayer and intercession were crucial.
• Theological Implication: The passage illustrates the relationship between human supplication and divine response, emphasizing that God listens and answers prayers.

Bible Commentary

Commentaries suggest that Eli's statement serves as a template for how one might respond to those in prayerful distress:

• Encouragement: By urging peace, Eli acknowledges Hannah's emotional burden and offers a comforting, faith-affirming response.
• Affirmation of Faith: Eli aligns his response with God’s will, suggesting the importance of righteous intercession on behalf of others.

Cross References

This verse connects with various other Scriptures that reinforce its themes:

• 1 Samuel 1:26 - Hannah expresses her heartfelt gratitude to God.
• James 5:16 - The power of prayer in a community setting.
• Matthew 7:7 - The encouragement to ask and seek from God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1 Samuel 1:17 offers rich insights into the nature of prayer, the role of faith, and the significance of blessings from spiritual leaders. It encourages believers to pursue a deep and personal relationship with God, filled with trust and hope.

Whether you're participating in Bible study groups, using Bible study tools, or seeking Bible study lessons, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's attentive listening and gracious responses to our prayers.

For anyone involved in online Bible study or seeking Bible study resources, understanding this verse is crucial for grasping the overall narrative of divine interaction with humanity in Scripture.