Bible Verse Commentary: 1 Samuel 2:19

Verse: 1 Samuel 2:19 - "Moreover, his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice."

Overview

This verse describes the practice of Hannah, Samuel's mother, who yearly brings him a new coat as she visits him at the shrine of Shiloh. This act signifies her love and devotion to her son and highlights the unique relationship between Samuel and his mother, even as he serves the Lord.

Meaning of Bible Verses

To understand this verse, we can examine several themes presented in public domain commentaries. Below is a summary of their insights:

• Hannah's Faith and Devotion: Matthew Henry notes that Hannah’s actions reflect a deep commitment to God and her son. She demonstrates that despite Samuel’s service to God, she maintains her maternal bond through thoughtful gifts.
• The Importance of Sacrifice: Albert Barnes emphasizes the significance of annual sacrifices made at Shiloh, illustrating the ongoing relationship between personal piety and community worship in Israel. Hannah’s coat symbolizes her continuous participation in this sacred act.
• Significance of Growth: Adam Clarke points out that the coat symbolizes Samuel's growth as he matures in his role. Every year Hannah’s gift is not just practical, but also a reminder of her love and the divine blessings surrounding his life.
• Symbolism of the Coat: The coat may represent the spiritual covering that Hannah provides through her love and prayers for Samuel, allowing him to grow under the protection of God and family values.
• Reflecting on Parental Influence: The act of bringing Samuel a coat demonstrates the importance of parental support in nurturing one’s faith and spiritual journey. It shows how Hannah's love serves as a foundational aspect of Samuel’s faith commitment.

Bible Verse Interpretations

This verse can be interpreted in various contexts:

• Historical Context: Understanding the cultural practices surrounding sacrifices in ancient Israel is crucial. This verse emphasizes not only the ritual but also the familial bonds that were maintained despite the demands of ministry.
• Application of Daily Life: For modern readers, Hannah’s commitment serves as a reminder of how we can maintain our relationships while also fulfilling our spiritual duties. It encourages nurturing personal faith while staying connected to family.
• Moral Aspects: Henry's commentary suggests that Hannah's generous heart and the care she provides reflect how one's love can manifest in tangible ways, illustrating the moral duty of parents to nurture their children's spiritual growth.

Bible Study Insights

When engaging in Bible study discussions, this verse can lead to conversations around:

• The value of familial love in spiritual development.
• Examples of personal sacrifices and commitments in a believer's life.
• The importance of remembering our spiritual heritage and the foundation laid by our families.

Cross References

• 1 Samuel 1:22 - Hannah's vow to dedicate Samuel to the Lord.
• 1 Samuel 3:19-21 - Samuel grows in favor with the Lord.
• Luke 2:51-52 - Jesus grows in wisdom and favor, paralleling Samuel's growth.

Conclusion

The verse 1 Samuel 2:19 encapsulates the profound relationship between Hannah and Samuel, emphasizing the themes of love, parental influence, and spiritual commitment. It is a poignant reminder that nurturing faith is a lifelong journey, intertwined with familial bonds and supportive actions.

For those engaging in Bible study groups or online Bible study, this verse invites readers to reflect on their own connections with faith, family, and service to God. Such insights can enrich our understanding of Scripture and its application in our daily lives.