1 Samuel 2:1-17

2:1-10 | Hannah’s prayer, like David’s prayer in 2 Samuel 22, provides a theological and prophetic framework for the events in the rest of 1 & 2 Samuel. God’s sovereign plan – to raise up the poor and humble while bringing low the high and mighty – would be vividly portrayed in this era of Israel’s history. The truths of Hannah’s prayer were echoed centuries later in Mary’s prayer (Luke 1:46-55).

2:10 | This is the first mention in Scripture of the anointed king, or the messiah, and it is the first time the Promised One is described in royal terms.

2:12-17 | Eli was a priest and restrainer of sin for Israel, but he failed to be a priest and restrainer of sin in his own home. Eli’s sons were taking parts of the offering before they were offered to God rather than waiting until after the sacrifice had been made, as God had instructed (Lev. 3). By giving in to greed, they showed utter contempt for God’s laws.