1 Samuel 2 presents Hannah’s song and the contrast between Samuel’s faithfulness and the corruption of Eli’s sons. Read the full text here.

Text Structure

1 Sam 2:1-10

Hannah’s song. Hannah praises God, recognizing His sovereignty, justice, and power, exalting how He transforms situations and lifts up the humble.

1 Sam 2:11-17

The corruption of Eli’s sons. Hophni and Phinehas act with contempt toward the offerings, showing disrespect and distance from God.

1 Sam 2:18-21

The growth of Samuel. Meanwhile, Samuel serves the Lord and grows in grace, being cared for and blessed.

1 Sam 2:22-25

The persistence in wrongdoing. Eli’s sons continue in their wrong practices, ignoring warnings and drifting even further away.

1 Sam 2:26

The favor upon Samuel. Samuel grows in favor with God and people, demonstrating a different path.

1 Sam 2:27-36

The message of judgment. A man of God announces consequences for Eli’s household due to his negligence and permissiveness.

Additional Literature

As a complement to the theme addressed in 1 Samuel 2, the following reading is recommended:

Patriarchs and Prophets, chapter 56 - “Eli and His Sons”

Reflection

1 Samuel 2 shows that proximity to sacred things does not guarantee faithfulness. Eli’s sons were in the temple, but far from God.

The contrast with Samuel reveals that true consecration is expressed through actions. Spiritual growth happens through daily faithfulness.

As presented in Patriarchs and Prophets, chapter 56, spiritual negligence can bring deep consequences, while faithfulness builds a lasting legacy.