Samuel[a] is a figure who, in the narratives of the Hebrew Bible, plays a key role in the transition from the biblical judges to the United Kingdom of Israel under Saul, and again in the monarchy 's transition from Saul to David. He is venerated as a prophet in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In the Bible, Samuel was a man chosen for God, from his miraculous birth until his death.

Understanding the Context

He served in several important positions during his life, earning God's favor because he knew how to obey. Samuel was a contemporary of King Saul and King David. Elkanah made love to his wife Hannah, and the Lord remembered her. 20 So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son.

Key Insights

She named him Samuel,[b] saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.” 1 samuel 1 NIV - The Birth of Samuel - There was a - Bible Gateway Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. 9 So Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” 1 samuel 3 NIV - The LORD Calls Samuel - The boy Samuel - Bible Gateway Samuel was recognized as the judge of all Israel. Like Eli’s sons, Samuel’s two sons, Joel and Abijah, sinned before God by seeking dishonest gain and perverting justice.

Final Thoughts

Samuel was a religious hero in the history of Israel, represented in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) in every role of leadership open to a Jewish man of his day—seer, priest, judge, prophet, and military leader. His greatest distinction was his role in the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.