Old Testament
1 Samuel 1:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the time came for the yearly sacrifice, Elkanah went up with his whole household to offer their sacrifice to the LORD and to fulfill his vow.
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And the man Elkanah, and all his house, went up to offer unto the LORD the yearly sacrifice, and his vow.
What 1 Samuel 1:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see Elkanah, a devoted man, taking his entire family to the annual sacrifice. This journey was not just a routine; it was a significant act of worship and commitment to God. Elkanah's decision to fulfill his vow shows his dedication and responsibility. He understood the importance of honoring his promises to God, which reflects a deep sense of faith. The yearly sacrifice was a time for the family to come together, reinforcing their bond and shared beliefs. It was a moment to express gratitude and seek blessings for the coming year. Elkanah's actions remind us that worship is not just a personal act but also a communal experience that strengthens family ties. This story encourages us to prioritize our commitments and to engage in acts of worship that bring us closer to God and each other. It highlights the value of being intentional in our faith and the importance of fulfilling our promises, both to God and to those we love. Such dedication can inspire us in our own lives.
How to apply 1 Samuel 1:21 to your life
Consider how you can honor your commitments in your life. Reflect on the promises you've made to God and others. Engage in acts of worship that strengthen your relationships with family and friends. Make time for gratitude and shared experiences that deepen your faith together. Your actions can inspire those around you to do the same.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Given to the LORD (1 Samuel 1:19–28)
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Samuel
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 1:21
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 1:21 mean?
1 Samuel 1:21 describes Elkanah taking his family to the annual sacrifice, highlighting his commitment to worship and fulfilling his vow to God. This act signifies the importance of family unity in faith and the dedication to honoring promises made to God.
What is the significance of the yearly sacrifice in 1 Samuel 1:21?
The yearly sacrifice in 1 Samuel 1:21 represents a time for families to come together in worship, express gratitude, and seek blessings from God. It emphasizes the communal aspect of faith and the importance of honoring commitments.
What does Elkanah's vow refer to in 1 Samuel 1:21?
Elkanah's vow in 1 Samuel 1:21 refers to a promise he made to God, which he fulfills by participating in the yearly sacrifice. This reflects his dedication and responsibility in maintaining his relationship with God.
How does 1 Samuel 1:21 relate to family worship?
1 Samuel 1:21 illustrates the importance of family worship by showing Elkanah taking his entire household to offer sacrifices together. This act reinforces family bonds and shared beliefs, highlighting worship as a communal experience.
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