Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 3 - Verse 5

When Samuel heard his name being called, he immediately ran to Eli, thinking it was him who called. This verse is from the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel, where Samuel, who was a young boy dedicated to serving the Lord, was sleeping in the temple when he heard a voice calling his name. Assuming it was Eli, the priest who was like a father figure to him, Samuel ran to him and offered his service. However, Eli had not called Samuel. He instructed Samuel to go back and lie down, as he did not call him. This passage is significant because it marks the beginning of Samuel's journey as a prophet and a servant of God. It demonstrates Samuel's willingness to serve and his obedience to authority. It also shows how God can call upon anyone, regardless of age or experience, to do His work. This verse serves as a reminder to always be attentive to God's voice and be ready to respond to His call.

This verse from 1 Samuel 3:5-6 highlights a key moment in the story of Samuel's calling by God. The theological interpretation of this passage focuses on the theme of obedience and attentiveness to the voice of God. When Samuel hears someone calling him in the middle of the night, he immediately runs to Eli, assuming it is him calling. However, Eli tells Samuel that he did not call him and instructs him to go back to bed. This interaction symbolizes the importance of discerning the voice of God from other distractions or false signals, as well as the need for humility and obedience in following God's guidance. Additionally, the word study of the phrase "lie down again" emphasizes the idea of surrender and submission to God's will, even when it may not align with our own expectations or desires. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the importance of listening attentively to God's voice and being willing to follow His commands wholeheartedly.