1 Samuel 4:18
1 Samuel 4:18 in Multiple Translations
As soon as the ark of God was mentioned, Eli fell backward from his chair by the city gate, and being old and heavy, he broke his neck and died. And Eli had judged Israel forty years.
And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.
And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that Eli fell from off his seat backward by the side of the gate; and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.
And at these words about the ark of God, Eli, falling back off his seat by the side of the doorway into the town, came down on the earth so that his neck was broken and death overtook him, for he was an old man and of great weight. He had been judging Israel for forty years.
As soon as the Ark of God was mentioned, Eli fell backward from his chair by the town gate. Since he was old and heavy, he broke his neck and died. Eli had been Israel's leader for forty years.
And when he had made mention of the Arke of God, Eli fell from his seate backward by the side of the gate, and his necke was broken, and he dyed: for he was an olde man and heauie: and he had iudged Israel fourtie yeeres.
And it cometh to pass, at his mentioning the ark of God, that he falleth from off the throne backward, by the side of the gate, and his neck is broken, and he dieth, for the man [is] old and heavy, and he hath judged Israel forty years.
When he made mention of God’s ark, Eli fell from off his seat backward by the side of the gate; and his neck broke, and he died, for he was an old man and heavy. He had judged Israel forty years.
And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck broke, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.
And when he had named the ark of God, he fell from his stool backwards by the door, and broke his neck, and died. For he was an old man, and far advanced in years: and he judged Israel forty years.
Eli was very old, and he was very fat; and when he heard what had happened to the sacred chest, he fell backward from his chair beside the town gate. His neck was broken and he died. He had led the Israeli people for 40 years before he died.
Eli was still on his chair at the door. After he heard that the Philistia mob stole the special box, he fell over backwards, and he broke his neck and died. You see, he was an old man and very fat. He was boss of the Israel mob for 40 years.
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Samuel 4:18
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 4:18 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יְהִ֞י
כְּ/הַזְכִּיר֣/וֹ
אֶת
אֲר֣וֹן
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֗ים
וַ/יִּפֹּ֣ל
מֵֽ/עַל
הַ֠/כִּסֵּא
אֲחֹ֨רַנִּ֜ית
בְּעַ֣ד
יַ֣ד
הַ/שַּׁ֗עַר
וַ/תִּשָּׁבֵ֤ר
מַפְרַקְתּ/וֹ֙
וַ/יָּמֹ֔ת
כִּֽי
זָקֵ֥ן
הָ/אִ֖ישׁ
וְ/כָבֵ֑ד
וְ/ה֛וּא
שָׁפַ֥ט
אֶת
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
אַרְבָּעִ֥ים
שָׁנָֽה
וַ/יְהִ֞י
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
כְּ/הַזְכִּיר֣/וֹ
zâkar
H2142
to remember
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אֲר֣וֹן
ʼârôwn
H727
ark
N-cs
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֗ים
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
Art | N-mp
וַ/יִּפֹּ֣ל
nâphal
H5307
to fall
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
מֵֽ/עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Prep
הַ֠/כִּסֵּא
kiççêʼ
H3678
throne
Art | N-ms
אֲחֹ֨רַנִּ֜ית
ʼăchôrannîyth
H322
backwards
Adv
בְּעַ֣ד
bᵉʻad
H1157
about/through/for
Prep
יַ֣ד
yâd
H3027
hand
N-cs
הַ/שַּׁ֗עַר
shaʻar
H8179
gate
Art | N-ms
וַ/תִּשָּׁבֵ֤ר
shâbar
H7665
to break
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3fs
מַפְרַקְתּ/וֹ֙
miphreqeth
H4665
neck
N-fs | Suff
וַ/יָּמֹ֔ת
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
זָקֵ֥ן
zâqên
H2204
be old
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
הָ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Art | N-ms
וְ/כָבֵ֑ד
kâbêd
H3515
heavy
Conj | Adj
וְ/ה֛וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
שָׁפַ֥ט
shâphaṭ
H8199
to judge
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
אַרְבָּעִ֥ים
ʼarbâʻîym
H705
forty
Adj
שָׁנָֽה
shâneh
H8141
year
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Samuel 4:18
וַ/יְהִ֞י
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
כְּ/הַזְכִּיר֣/וֹ
zâkar
H2142
"to remember"
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
To remember means to recall or mark something, like God remembering his covenant with Abraham in Genesis 9:1 and Exodus 2:24.
Definition: 1) to remember, recall, call to mind 1a) (Qal) to remember, recall 1b) (Niphal) to be brought to remembrance, be remembered, be thought of, be brought to mind 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to remember, remind 1c2) to cause to be remembered, keep in remembrance 1c3) to mention 1c4) to record 1c5) to make a memorial, make remembrance
Usage: Occurs in 223 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] burn (incense), [idiom] earnestly, be male, (make) mention (of), be mindful, recount, record(-er), remember, make to be remembered, bring (call, come, keep, put) to (in) remembrance, [idiom] still, think on, [idiom] well. See also: Genesis 8:1; Psalms 74:2; Psalms 8:5.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
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.
אֲר֣וֹן
ʼârôwn
H727
"ark"
N-cs
The Hebrew word for a box or chest, like the Ark of the Covenant in Exodus 25:10-22. It can also mean a money chest or a coffin. In the Bible, it appears in stories about the Israelites and their sacred objects.
Definition: 1) chest, ark 1a) money chest 1b) Ark of the Covenant 2)(TWOT) coffin
Usage: Occurs in 174 OT verses. KJV: ark, chest, coffin. See also: Genesis 50:26; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 132:8.
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֗ים
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
"God"
Art | N-mp
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.
וַ/יִּפֹּ֣ל
nâphal
H5307
"to fall"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.
Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.
מֵֽ/עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הַ֠/כִּסֵּא
kiççêʼ
H3678
"throne"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a throne, symbolizing a seat of power or authority, often canopied or covered. It is used to describe the throne of God or a king, representing royal dignity and power.
Definition: 1) seat (of honour), throne, seat, stool 1a) seat (of honour), throne 1b) royal dignity, authority, power (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 124 OT verses. KJV: seat, stool, throne. See also: Genesis 41:40; 2 Chronicles 23:20; Psalms 9:5.
אֲחֹ֨רַנִּ֜ית
ʼăchôrannîyth
H322
"backwards"
Adv
Meaning backwards or the rear, this word describes something located at the back or something that is done in reverse.
Definition: backwards, back part, the rear
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: back (-ward, again). See also: Genesis 9:23; 2 Kings 20:10; Isaiah 38:8.
בְּעַ֣ד
bᵉʻad
H1157
"about/through/for"
Prep
This word means about, through, or for something, often used to describe location or action. It can be translated as 'about', 'at', 'by', or 'through', depending on the context in which it is used.
Definition: 1) behind, through, round about, on behalf of, away from, about 1a) through (of action) 1b) behind (with verbs of shutting) 1c) about (with verbs of fencing) 1d) on behalf of (metaph. especially with Hithpael)
Usage: Occurs in 81 OT verses. KJV: about, at by (means of), for, over, through, up (-on), within. See also: Genesis 7:16; 2 Chronicles 30:18; Psalms 3:4.
יַ֣ד
yâd
H3027
"hand"
N-cs
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
הַ/שַּׁ֗עַר
shaʻar
H8179
"gate"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.
Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven
Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.
וַ/תִּשָּׁבֵ֤ר
shâbar
H7665
"to break"
Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3fs
This word means to break or shatter something, either physically or emotionally. It can also mean to burst or rupture, and is often used to describe intense violence or destruction. In the Bible, it's translated as break or crush.
Definition: 1) to break, break in pieces 1a) (Qal) 1a1) break, break in or down, rend violently, wreck, crush, quench 1a2) to break, rupture (fig) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be broken, be maimed, be crippled, be wrecked 1b2) to be broken, be crushed (fig) 1c) (Piel) to shatter, break 1d) (Hiphil) to cause to break out, bring to the birth 1e) (Hophal) to be broken, be shattered Aramaic equivalent: te.var (תְּבַר "to break" H8406)
Usage: Occurs in 143 OT verses. KJV: break (down, off, in pieces, up), broken (-hearted), bring to the birth, crush, destroy, hurt, quench, [idiom] quite, tear, view (by mistake for H7663 (שָׂבַר)). See also: Genesis 19:9; Isaiah 27:11; Psalms 3:8.
מַפְרַקְתּ/וֹ֙
miphreqeth
H4665
"neck"
N-fs | Suff
The Hebrew word for neck, it describes the joint or vertebrae that connect the head to the body. It is used in the Bible to describe the physical neck.
Definition: neck
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: neck. See also: 1 Samuel 4:18.
וַ/יָּמֹ֔ת
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
זָקֵ֥ן
zâqên
H2204
"be old"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To be old or become old is what this Hebrew verb means, as seen in Genesis 18:11, where Abraham and Sarah are described as aged. It can also imply showing signs of age or becoming elderly. The concept of aging is significant in biblical narratives.
Definition: 1) to be old, become old 1a) (Qal) to be old, become old 1b) (Hiphil) to grow old, show age
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: aged man, be (wax) old (man). See also: Genesis 18:12; 1 Samuel 8:5; Psalms 37:25.
הָ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Art | N-ms
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.
וְ/כָבֵ֑ד
kâbêd
H3515
"heavy"
Conj | Adj
Something or someone that is heavy or severe is what this word describes, like a heavy heart in Proverbs 12 or a difficult task, as in Matthew 23.
Definition: 1) heavy, great 1a) heavy 1b) massive, abundant, numerous 1c) heavy, dull 1d) hard, difficult, burdensome 1e) very oppressive, numerous, rich
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: (so) great, grievous, hard(-ened), (too) heavy(-ier), laden, much, slow, sore, thick. See also: Genesis 12:10; Numbers 11:14; Psalms 38:5.
וְ/ה֛וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
שָׁפַ֥ט
shâphaṭ
H8199
"to judge"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To shaphat means to judge or govern, and can also mean to vindicate or punish. In the Bible, this term is often used to describe God's role as a judge, as well as human judges and rulers.
Definition: 1) to judge, govern, vindicate, punish 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to act as law-giver or judge or governor (of God, man) 1a1a) to rule, govern, judge 1a2) to decide controversy (of God, man) 1a3) to execute judgment 1a3a) discriminating (of man) 1a3b) vindicating 1a3c) condemning and punishing 1a3d) at theophanic advent for final judgment 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to enter into controversy, plead, have controversy together 1b2) to be judged 1c) (Poel) judge, opponent-at-law (participle)
Usage: Occurs in 182 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] avenge, [idiom] that condemn, contend, defend, execute (judgment), (be a) judge(-ment), [idiom] needs, plead, reason, rule. See also: Genesis 16:5; Psalms 9:5; Psalms 2:10.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
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.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
אַרְבָּעִ֥ים
ʼarbâʻîym
H705
"forty"
Adj
The number forty is what this Hebrew word represents, often used in the Bible to mark significant periods of time, like the 40 days of rain in Genesis or the 40 years of Israel's wilderness journey.
Definition: forty
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: -forty. See also: Genesis 5:13; Judges 13:1; Psalms 95:10.
שָׁנָֽה
shâneh
H8141
"year"
N-fs
This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.
Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)
Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 4:18
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Samuel 4:18 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 4:18
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 4:18
Context — The Death of Eli
16“I have just come from the battle,” the man said to Eli. “I fled from there today.” “What happened, my son?” Eli asked.
17The messenger answered, “Israel has fled before the Philistines, and there has been a great slaughter among the people. Your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are both dead, and the ark of God has been captured.”
18As soon as the ark of God was mentioned, Eli fell backward from his chair by the city gate, and being old and heavy, he broke his neck and died. And Eli had judged Israel forty years.
19Now Eli’s daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, was pregnant and about to give birth. When she heard the news of the capture of God’s ark and the deaths of her father-in-law and her husband, she collapsed and gave birth, for her labor pains overtook her. 20As she was dying, the women attending to her said, “Do not be afraid, for you have given birth to a son!” But she did not respond or pay any heed.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 4:21–22 | And she named the boy Ichabod, saying, “The glory has departed from Israel,” because the ark of God had been captured and her father-in-law and her husband had been killed. “The glory has departed from Israel,” she said, “for the ark of God has been captured.” |
| 2 | 1 Peter 4:17–18 | For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who disobey the gospel of God? And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” |
| 3 | Psalms 69:9 | because zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult You have fallen on me. |
| 4 | Psalms 26:8 | O LORD, I love the house where You dwell, the place where Your glory resides. |
| 5 | 1 Corinthians 11:30–32 | That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. Now if we judged ourselves properly, we would not come under judgment. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 3:12–13 | On that day I will carry out against Eli everything I have spoken about his family, from beginning to end. I told him that I would judge his house forever for the iniquity of which he knows, because his sons blasphemed God and he did not restrain them. |
| 7 | Lamentations 2:15–19 | All who pass by clap their hands at you in scorn. They hiss and shake their heads at the Daughter of Jerusalem: “Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?” All your enemies open their mouths against you. They hiss and gnash their teeth, saying, “We have swallowed her up. This is the day for which we have waited. We have lived to see it!” The LORD has done what He planned; He has accomplished His decree, which He ordained in days of old; He has overthrown you without pity. He has let the enemy gloat over you and exalted the horn of your foes. The hearts of the people cry out to the Lord. O wall of the Daughter of Zion, let your tears run down like a river day and night. Give yourself no relief, and your eyes no rest. Arise, cry out in the night from the first watch of the night. Pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to Him for the lives of your children who are fainting from hunger on the corner of every street. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 4:13 | When he arrived, there was Eli, sitting on his chair beside the road and watching, because his heart trembled for the ark of God. When the man entered the city to give a report, the whole city cried out. |
| 9 | Psalms 42:3 | My tears have been my food both day and night, while men ask me all day long, “Where is your God?” |
| 10 | Leviticus 10:3 | Then Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the LORD meant when He said: ‘To those who come near Me I will show My holiness, and in the sight of all the people I will reveal My glory.’” But Aaron remained silent. |
1 Samuel 4:18 Summary
This verse tells us that Eli, the high priest, was so upset when he heard that the ark of God had been captured that he fell backward and died. The ark represented God's presence and glory, and Eli's death shows how seriously God takes the treatment of His presence. As we read in Exodus 25:22, the ark was a symbol of God's throne on earth, and its capture was a serious blow to Israel's spiritual well-being. We can learn from Eli's example to prioritize God's presence and glory in our own lives, and to seek God's help and guidance when we face spiritual challenges or defeats, as seen in Psalm 46:1 and 1 Samuel 7:1-17.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Eli fall backward and die when he heard the ark of God was captured?
Eli fell backward and died because he was deeply grieved by the news of the ark's capture, which symbolized God's presence and glory, as seen in Exodus 25:22 and 1 Samuel 4:11. His death was also a consequence of his own spiritual failure and the corruption of his sons, as mentioned in 1 Samuel 2:12-17 and 1 Samuel 3:13.
What is the significance of Eli judging Israel for forty years?
Eli's forty-year tenure as judge highlights his long-standing position of leadership, but it also underscores his failure to address the corruption and idolatry in Israel, as seen in Judges 2:10-12 and 1 Samuel 2:12-17. This failure ultimately led to the capture of the ark and Eli's own demise.
How does Eli's death relate to the broader narrative of 1 Samuel?
Eli's death marks a turning point in the narrative, as it sets the stage for the rise of Samuel as a leader and prophet in Israel, as seen in 1 Samuel 3:1-4:1 and 1 Samuel 7:1-17. It also highlights the consequences of spiritual complacency and the need for God's people to remain faithful and obedient, as emphasized in Deuteronomy 8:11-14 and Joshua 22:5.
What can we learn from Eli's reaction to the news of the ark's capture?
Eli's reaction teaches us about the importance of prioritizing God's presence and glory in our lives, as seen in Psalm 16:11 and Psalm 27:4. It also warns us about the dangers of spiritual complacency and the need to remain vigilant in our walk with God, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 10:12 and 1 Peter 5:8.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I prioritize God's presence and glory in my own life, and how can I improve in this area?
- How do I respond to news of spiritual failure or defeat in my own life or in the lives of those around me, and what can I learn from Eli's example?
- What are some areas of spiritual complacency or corruption in my own life that I need to address, and how can I seek God's help and guidance in overcoming them?
- How can I balance the need for leadership and authority with the importance of humility and obedience to God, as seen in Eli's story?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Samuel 4:18
And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God,.... Of the taking of that, it struck him to the heart, and killed him; the rest he bore tolerably well, the flight of Israel before the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 4:18
And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
He fell from off the seat backward; being so oppressed with grief and astonishment, that he had no strength left to support him. By the side of the gate, to wit, the gate of the city, which was most convenient for the speedy understanding of all occurrences. He was an old man, and heavy; old, and therefore weak, and apt to fall; heavy, and therefore his fall more dangerous and pernicious. He had judged Israel; he was their supreme governor, both in civils and spirituals.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
1 Samuel 4:18 And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.Ver. 18. When he made mention of the ark.] This word struck him down backward, and killed him in the fall. No sword of a Philistine could have slain him more powerfully; neither can you say whether his neck or heart were first broken. His neck brake, and he died.] Howbeit he had hope in his death, and might write Resurgam on his grave; whereas the wicked fall like the elephant, which, being down, riseth not again.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
(18) He fell from off the seat backward.—The compiler of these books was actuated by no feeling of friendship to the high priest Eli. In composing this history of the events which led to the elevation of Samuel to the judgeship, he simply puts together the materials he possessed of the records of these days, and gives us a vivid picture of the calamities of the rule of Eli. As he never spares his weakness, or attempts to veil his blind nepotism, we feel here the perfect truth of this touching incident which closed the old man’s life. He loved the Ark, because of its close connection with his God, better, after all, than his two sons. We have seen already that he could bear the stern announcement of the ruin and degradation of the fortune of his proud house, for which he toiled only too faithfully; he could bear to see another—the boy Samuel—preferred before him, the high priest and judge of Israel; he could endure to hear of the defeat and ruin of the country over which he had so long ruled, and which he loved so well; even the news of the death of his sons he could listen to with sad resignation; but when his ears caught the words “the ark of God is taken,” the old man s heart broke, and he died. The chronicler of this period, who certainly never favoured Eli, leaves upon us the impression that with all his faults and imperfections he was still a servant of God. Wordsworth quotes here Psalms 137:5-6 : “If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth: if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.”—The dying words of Archbishop Whitgift were, “Pro ecclesils Dei,”—“For the church of God.” And he had judged Israel forty years.—“When I read of Eli the priest, of the sons of Aaron, judging Israel forty years, and of Samuel, certainly a Levite, though not a priest, going circuit as a judge itinerant in Israel (1 Samuel 7:16), and of others of the families of Levi appointed by King David to be judges and officers, not only in all the business of the Lord, but also for the outward business of Israel (2 Samuel 15:35; 1 Chronicles 26:29-32)—when I observe in the Church stories, ever since the world had Christian princes, how ecclesiastical persons have been employed by their sovereigns in their weightiest consultations and affairs of state, I cannot but wonder at those who inveigh against courts, power, jurisdiction, and the temporalities of bishops and other ecclesiastical persons. I speak it not to justify abuses of men, but to justify the lawfulness of the tiling.”—Bishop Sanderson, quoted by Wordsworth.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Samuel 4:18
Verse 18. When he made mention of the ark of God] Eli bore all the relation till the messenger came to this solemn word; he had trembled before for the ark, and now, hearing that it was captured, he was transfixed with grief, fell down from his seat, and dislocated his neck! Behold the judgments of God! But shall we say that this man, however remiss in the education of his children, and criminal in his indulgence towards his profligate sons, which arose more from the easiness of his disposition than from a desire to encourage vice, is gone to perdition? God forbid! No man ever died with such benevolent and religious feelings, and yet perished. He had judged Israel forty years] Instead of forty years, the Septuagint has here εικοσιετη, twenty years. All the other versions, as well as the Hebrew text, have forty years.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Samuel 4:18
18. the ark of God] National defeat and disgrace, family bereavement, were but trifles compared to the loss of the Ark, which seemed to prove that Jehovah had forsaken the people of his choice. “Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now their God?” he had judged Israel forty years] See note on 1 Samuel 4:1.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Samuel 4:18
A comparison of 2 Samuel 18:4, explains exactly the meaning of the “side of the gate,” and Eli’s position.
Sermons on 1 Samuel 4:18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Silent Church Amidst a Sinful Nation by E.A. Johnston | In this sermon, the speaker highlights the current state of the Christian Church, describing it as helpless and facing powers of darkness. He emphasizes that the Church has substit |
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sermonindex.net Simulcast 2012: Learning From the Church in China by E.A. Johnston | This sermon contrasts the state of the church in China, where believers face persecution and suffering as part of following Christ, with the church in the West, which has drifted f |
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Soaring 2 - Burdens & Gifts by Gareth Evans | In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a story from the book of Kings in the Old Testament. The story is about a little bundle that learns to fly and soar without moving its |
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Why Glory in the Cross by Rolfe Barnard | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God rather than relying on entertainment or other distractions. He believes that the new birth is a |
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Samuel - His Early Life Ii by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a personal relationship with God. He uses the story of Samuel in the Bible to illustrate how God can speak to indiv |
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On Eagles' Wings Pt 301 by Don Courville | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about leading a man to Christ after he had been involved in a motorcycle accident. The speaker emphasizes the importance of gett |
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Why Revival Leaves by Dean Taylor | Dean Taylor delves into the topic of revival, exploring the reasons why revival tarries and why it eventually leaves. Drawing from historical accounts like the Lancaster revivals, |