Who Was Samuel in the Bible — In Biblical Context
Samuel was the last judge and first major prophet of Israel, dedicated to God's service from birth, who anointed both Saul and David as kings.
Samuel was the last judge and first major prophet of Israel, dedicated to God's service from birth, who anointed both Saul and David as kings.
"And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth." — 1 Samuel 3:10 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Samuel's birth was an answer to his mother Hannah's desperate prayer (1 Samuel 1). She had been barren, and she vowed that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord. True to her word, she brought young Samuel to serve in the tabernacle under Eli the priest. As a boy, Samuel heard God's voice calling him at night (1 Samuel 3) — one of the most beloved stories in the Bible. He grew to become a prophet, priest, and judge who led Israel through a critical transition period. When the people demanded a king 'like all the nations,' Samuel warned them of the consequences but obeyed God and anointed Saul (1 Samuel 8-10). When Saul proved unfaithful, God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint David — 'a man after his own heart' (1 Samuel 13:14). Samuel's integrity was unquestioned; at the end of his career he challenged anyone to accuse him of corruption, and no one could (1 Samuel 12:3-4).
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, 1 Samuel 3:10, sits inside 1 Samuel 3. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth."
Supporting Passages
"Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward."
"Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you."
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