1 Samuel 1:23

1 Samuel 1:23 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

“Do what you think is best,” her husband Elkanah replied, “and stay here until you have weaned him. Only may the LORD confirm His word.” So Hannah stayed and nursed her son until she had weaned him.

King James Version KJV

And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him.

American Standard Version ASV

And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only Jehovah establish his word. So the woman tarried and gave her son suck, until she weaned him.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And her husband Elkanah said to her, Do whatever seems right to you, but not till you have taken him from the breast; only may the Lord do as he has said. So the woman, waiting there, gave her son milk till he was old enough to be taken from the breast.

Free Bible Version FBV

“Do as you see fit,” her husband Elkanah replied. “Stay here until you have weaned him. May the Lord fulfill what he has said.” So Hannah stayed behind and nursed her son until she had weaned him.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And Elkanah her husband sayd vnto her, Do what seemeth thee best: tarie vntill thou hast weined him: only the Lord accomplish his word. So the woman abode, and gaue her sonne sucke vntill she weined him.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Elkanah her husband saith to her, 'Do that which is good in thine eyes; abide till thy weaning him; only, Jehovah establish His word;' and the woman abideth and suckleth her son till she hath weaned him,

World English Bible WEB

Elkanah her husband said to her, “Do what seems good to you. Wait until you have weaned him; only may the LORD establish his word.” So the woman waited and nursed her son until she weaned him.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And Elkanah her husband said to her, Do what seemeth to thee good; tarry until thou hast weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and nursed her son until she weaned him.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And Elcana her husband said to her: Do what seemeth good to thee, and stay till thou wean him: and I pray that the Lord may fulfill his word. So the woman stayed at home, and gave her son suck, till she weaned him.

Translation for Translators T4T

Elkanah said, “Do what seems the best to you. Stay here until you have weaned him. What I desire is that Yahweh will enable you to do what you have promised.” So Hannah stayed at home and nursed her son until she weaned him.

Plain English Version PEV

Elkanah said, “All right, if you like, stay here until your baby stops drinking your milk. After that, God will help you to keep your promise.” So Hannah stayed home with her little boy while he was still drinking her milk.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 1:23

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Samuel 1:23 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר לָ/הּ֩ אֶלְקָנָ֨ה אִישָׁ֜/הּ עֲשִׂ֧י הַ/טּ֣וֹב בְּ/עֵינַ֗יִ/ךְ שְׁבִי֙ עַד גָּמְלֵ֣/ךְ אֹת֔/וֹ אַ֛ךְ יָקֵ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה אֶת דְּבָר֑/וֹ וַ/תֵּ֤שֶׁב הָֽ/אִשָּׁה֙ וַ/תֵּ֣ינֶק אֶת בְּנָ֔/הּ עַד גָּמְלָ֖/הּ אֹתֽ/וֹ

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

לָ/הּ֩ Prep | Suff

אֶלְקָנָ֨ה ʼElqânâh H511 Elkanah N-proper

אִישָׁ֜/הּ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms | Suff

עֲשִׂ֧י ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Impv-2fs

הַ/טּ֣וֹב ṭôwb H2896 pleasant Art | Adj

בְּ/עֵינַ֗יִ/ךְ ʻayin H5869 eye Prep | N-cd | Suff

שְׁבִי֙ yâshab H3427 to dwell V-Qal-Impv-2fs

עַד ʻad H5704 till Prep

גָּמְלֵ֣/ךְ gâmal H1580 to wean V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

אֹת֔/וֹ ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

אַ֛ךְ ʼak H389 surely DirObjM

יָקֵ֥ם qûwm H6965 -kamai V-Hiphil-Juss-3ms

יְהוָ֖ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

דְּבָר֑/וֹ dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-ms | Suff

וַ/תֵּ֤שֶׁב yâshab H3427 to dwell Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

הָֽ/אִשָּׁה֙ ʼishshâh H802 woman Art | N-fs

וַ/תֵּ֣ינֶק yânaq H3243 to suckle Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3fs

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

בְּנָ֔/הּ bên H1121 son N-ms | Suff

עַד ʻad H5704 till Prep

גָּמְלָ֖/הּ gâmal H1580 to wean V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

אֹתֽ/וֹ ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 1:23

וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

לָ/הּ֩ "" Prep | Suff

אֶלְקָנָ֨ה ʼElqânâh H511 "Elkanah" N-proper

Elkanah means God has possessed and is the name of several Israelites, including Samuel's father and a ruler in Jerusalem during King Ahaz's time.

Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at 2Ch.28.7 § Elkanah = "God has possessed" or "God has created" 1) Samuel's father 2) a ruler in Jerusalem in the time of king Ahaz 3) one of David's mighty warriors 4) son of Korah 5) several Levites

Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Elkanah. See also: Exodus 6:24; 1 Chronicles 6:10; 2 Chronicles 28:7.

אִישָׁ֜/הּ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms | Suff

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

עֲשִׂ֧י ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Impv-2fs

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

הַ/טּ֣וֹב ṭôwb H2896 "pleasant" Art | Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.

Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)

Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.

בְּ/עֵינַ֗יִ/ךְ ʻayin H5869 "eye" Prep | N-cd | Suff

This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.

שְׁבִי֙ yâshab H3427 "to dwell" V-Qal-Impv-2fs

This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.

Definition: 1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sit, sit down 1a2) to be set 1a3) to remain, stay 1a4) to dwell, have one's abode 1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited 1c) (Piel) to set, place 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to sit 1d2) to cause to abide, set 1d3) to cause to dwell 1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited 1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to) 1e) (Hophal) 1e1) to be inhabited 1e2) to make to dwell Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)

Usage: Occurs in 977 OT verses. KJV: (make to) abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease self, endure, establish, [idiom] fail, habitation, haunt, (make to) inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, [idiom] marry(-ing), (bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(-tle), (down-) sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate), take, tarry. See also: Genesis 4:16; Leviticus 25:18; Joshua 13:6.

עַד ʻad H5704 "till" Prep

This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.

Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)

Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.

גָּמְלֵ֣/ךְ gâmal H1580 "to wean" V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

This verb means to wean a child or to treat someone well or poorly. It can also mean to ripen or bear fruit, and is translated as bestow, recompense, or requite in the KJV.

Definition: 1) to deal fully with, recompense 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to deal out to, do to 1a2) to deal bountifully with 1a3) to recompense, repay, requite 2) (Qal) to wean a child (Niphal) to be weaned 3) (Qal) to ripen, bear ripe (almonds)

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: bestow on, deal bountifully, do (good), recompense, requite, reward, ripen, [phrase] serve, mean, yield. See also: Genesis 21:8; Psalms 103:10; Psalms 7:5.

אֹת֔/וֹ ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

אַ֛ךְ ʼak H389 "surely" DirObjM

This Hebrew word is used to emphasize something, like saying 'surely' or 'certainly'. It can also be used to limit or restrict something, like saying 'only' or 'but'.

Definition: 1) indeed, surely (emphatic) 2) howbeit, only, but, yet (restrictive)

Usage: Occurs in 157 OT verses. KJV: also, in any wise, at least, but, certainly, even, howbeit, nevertheless, notwithstanding, only, save, surely, of a surety, truly, verily, [phrase] wherefore, yet (but). See also: Genesis 7:23; 2 Kings 23:35; Psalms 23:6.

יָקֵ֥ם qûwm H6965 "-kamai" V-Hiphil-Juss-3ms

Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.

Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai

Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.

יְהוָ֖ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

דְּבָר֑/וֹ dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" N-ms | Suff

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

וַ/תֵּ֤שֶׁב yâshab H3427 "to dwell" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs

This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.

הָֽ/אִשָּׁה֙ ʼishshâh H802 "woman" Art | N-fs

The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.

Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.

וַ/תֵּ֣ינֶק yânaq H3243 "to suckle" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3fs

To suckle or nurse is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which also means to give milk. It describes the act of nursing a child.

Definition: 1) to suckle, nurse, suck 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to suck 1a2) suckling, babe (subst) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to give suck to, nurse 1b2) nursing, nursing woman, nurse (participle)

Usage: Occurs in 30 OT verses. KJV: milch, nurse(-ing mother), (give, make to) suck(-ing child, -ling). See also: Genesis 21:7; 2 Chronicles 22:11; Psalms 8:3.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

בְּנָ֔/הּ bên H1121 "son" N-ms | Suff

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

עַד ʻad H5704 "till" Prep

This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.

גָּמְלָ֖/הּ gâmal H1580 "to wean" V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff

This verb means to wean a child or to treat someone well or poorly. It can also mean to ripen or bear fruit, and is translated as bestow, recompense, or requite in the KJV.

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: bestow on, deal bountifully, do (good), recompense, requite, reward, ripen, [phrase] serve, mean, yield. See also: Genesis 21:8; Psalms 103:10; Psalms 7:5.

אֹתֽ/וֹ ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

Study Notes — 1 Samuel 1:23

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Samuel 1:23 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 1:23
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 1:23
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 1:23
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23
Sermons on 1 Samuel 1:23

Context — The Birth of Samuel

21Then Elkanah and all his house went up to make the annual sacrifice to the LORD and to fulfill his vow, 22but Hannah did not go. “After the boy is weaned,” she said to her husband, “I will take him to appear before the LORD and to stay there permanently.”

23“Do what you think is best,” her husband Elkanah replied, “and stay here until you have weaned him. Only may the LORD confirm His word.” So Hannah stayed and nursed her son until she had weaned him.

24Once she had weaned him, Hannah took the boy with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine. Though the boy was still young, she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh. 25And when they had slaughtered the bull, they brought the boy to Eli.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 7:25	And now, O LORD God, confirm forever the word You have spoken concerning Your servant and his house. Do as You have promised,
2	Luke 11:27	As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and blessed are the breasts that nursed You!”
3	Genesis 21:7–8	She added, “Who would have told Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.” So the child grew and was weaned, and Abraham held a great feast on the day Isaac was weaned.
4	Psalms 22:9	Yet You brought me forth from the womb; You made me secure at my mother’s breast.
5	Numbers 30:7–11	and her husband hears of it but says nothing to her on that day, then the vows or pledges by which she has bound herself shall stand. But if her husband prohibits her when he hears of it, he nullifies the vow that binds her or the rash promise she has made, and the LORD will absolve her. Every vow a widow or divorced woman pledges to fulfill is binding on her. If a woman in her husband’s house has made a vow or put herself under an obligation with an oath, and her husband hears of it but says nothing to her and does not prohibit her, then all the vows or pledges by which she has bound herself shall stand.
6	Matthew 24:19	How miserable those days will be for pregnant and nursing mothers!
7	1 Samuel 1:17	“Go in peace,” Eli replied, “and may the God of Israel grant the petition you have asked of Him.”
8	Isaiah 44:26	who confirms the message of His servant and fulfills the counsel of His messengers, who says of Jerusalem, ‘She will be inhabited,’ and of the cities of Judah, ‘They will be rebuilt, and I will restore their ruins,’

1 Samuel 1:23 Summary

[This verse shows us a beautiful picture of a family trusting in God's plan and prioritizing each other's care. Elkanah tells Hannah to do what she thinks is best, and she decides to stay and nurse their son until he's weaned, demonstrating her faith in God's promise, similar to the trust expressed in Jeremiah 29:11. As we read this verse, we can learn about the importance of trust, patience, and family bonds, and how these values are reflected in other parts of the Bible, such as in Matthew 6:33-34, where Jesus teaches us to prioritize God's kingdom and trust in His provision.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean for Elkanah to say 'Do what you think is best' to Hannah?

Elkanah is showing trust in Hannah's judgment and faith, allowing her to make decisions about their son's care, as seen in 1 Samuel 1:23, similar to how Abraham trusted God's plan in Genesis 22:2-3.

Why did Elkanah add 'Only may the LORD confirm His word' to his response?

Elkanah is acknowledging that ultimately, God's will and plan are what matter, and he is submitting to God's sovereignty, much like the attitude expressed in Proverbs 3:5-6, trusting in God's guidance.

What can we learn from Hannah's decision to stay and nurse her son until he was weaned?

Hannah's actions demonstrate her commitment to her son's well-being and her faith in God's promise, as seen in 1 Samuel 1:23, illustrating the importance of patience and trust in God's timing, similar to the example in Psalm 37:7.

How does Elkanah's response reflect his relationship with Hannah and their son?

Elkanah's response shows a supportive and loving relationship with Hannah, and a willingness to prioritize their son's care, reflecting a strong family bond, similar to the relationship described in Ephesians 5:25-33 and Colossians 3:19-21.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I need to trust God's sovereignty, like Elkanah did, and how can I apply that trust in practical ways?
How can I, like Hannah, demonstrate patience and commitment to the things God has called me to, even when it's challenging?
What are some ways I can prioritize the well-being and care of those around me, just as Elkanah and Hannah prioritized their son's care?
In what ways can I, like this family, trust in God's promise and plan, even when the outcome is uncertain, and how can I express that trust in my daily life?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 1:23

And Elkanah her husband said unto her, do what seemeth thee good,.... He spake like a kind and indulgent husband, knowing that she would not thereby break any law of God; and it might be more for her

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 1:23

And Elkanah her husband said unto her Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him;

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

The Lord establish his word; either, first, The word of God made known to them by Eli, above, , which being delivered by God’ s high priest, and that in answer to his and his wife’ s prayers, he took to be a kind of oracle sent from God. But that word was already fulfilled in the birth of a son. Or, secondly, Some other word or message from God to Elkanah or his wife concerning Samuel; for such revelations were frequent in those ages of the church, and were oft vouchsafed by God, concerning such children as were extraordinary persons, or in a special manner devoted to God; as concerning Isaac, Genesis 18, and Samson, ,4, and John Baptist, ,14, &c., and others. And so it might be here, though it were not mentioned before, there being many such things in Scripture omitted in their proper places, which afterwards are expressed or implied upon other occasions. Or rather, thirdly, It may be rendered his matter, or thing, i.e. the business concerning the child, that which thou hast promised or vowed concerning him, that he may grow up, and be accepted and employed by God in his service; and that he, when he is fully grown, may not break thy vow, but confirm it.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

1 Samuel 1:23 And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him.Ver. 23. Do what seemeth thee good.] Wives must be gratified in their lawful and reasonable requests. Only the Lord establish.] Perfect what he hath begun.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

(23) Only the Lord establish his word.—No special word or promise of the Eternal in the case of the infant Samuel is recorded in this history; but there was an ancient Rabbinical tradition that a direct revelation respecting the future destiny of Samuel was made. “The Bath-kol (Daughter of the Voice) went forth, saying, There shall arise a just one, whose name shall be Samuel. Then every mother who bore a son called him Samuel; but when they saw his actions, they said, This is not Samuel. But when this one was born, they said, This is that Samuel, and this is what the Scripture means when it says, ‘The Lord confirmed his word that Samuel may be that just one.’”—Rashi.If we decline to accept the Rabbinical tradition, Bunsen’s simple comment will explain the difficult words of the text, “establish his word”: that is, may the Lord fulfil what He designs with him, and has promised by his birth.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

Verse 23. Until thou have weaned him] On the nature of this weaning, and the time in which it was usually done, the reader will be pleased to refer to Clarke's note on "Genesis 21:8". The Lord establish his word.] Or, may the Lord establish his word-preserve the child, cause him to grow up, and make him a blessing to Israel.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 1:23

23. his word] No express promise of a son has been mentioned; Eli’s blessing in 1 Samuel 1:17 can scarcely be understood as such. But Samuel’s birth implied that Hannah’s prayer was heard, and Elkanah prays that it may receive a complete fulfilment. The Sept. reads “The Lord establish that which is gone forth out of thy mouth.”

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:23

23. Only the Lord establish his word — What word Elkanah here refers to is not clear.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 1:23

	Sermon	Description
	(Through the Bible) 2 Samuel 1-7 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of resting in God's ability to do His work without the need for excessive promotion or striving. He contrasts the constant ef
	(Through the Bible) 2 Chronicles 1-9 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being motivated by the love of Jesus Christ. He references the apostle Paul's statement that the love of Christ constrains
	The Tabernacle of David (2 of 2) by Art Katz	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a chosen people for God. He highlights how God chose Israel not because they were the greatest, but because they were
	Our Daily Homily - 2 Samuel by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer reflects on the life of David in 2 Samuel, emphasizing the beauty of love and forgiveness as demonstrated by David's tribute to Saul and Jonathan. He highlights the impo
	Do as Thou Hast Said. by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of childlike faith in his sermon 'Do as Thou Hast Said,' reflecting on David's response to God's promises through Nathan. David's joy stemmed f
	(Through the Bible) Luke 11 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who goes to his friend's house in the middle of the night to borrow some bread. The friend initially refuses to help, but even
	Clean but Empty by Erlo Stegen	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of people making superficial decisions for Christ without truly committing their lives to Him. He shares examples of large numbers o