1 Samuel 2:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The LORD give thee seed of this woman for the loan which is lent to the LORD. And they went unto their own home.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eli blesses Elkanah and Hannah, asking God to give them more children in place of the son they lent to the Lord.
What Does 1 Samuel 2:20 Mean?
Eli the priest blesses the couple, praying that the Lord would give them more children to replace the one Hannah had 'lent' to God. Then they return home, their yearly visit complete.
Eli recognizes Hannah's gift for what it is: a son given back to God. His blessing acknowledges that what is offered to the Lord is never truly lost. The God who receives our gifts is no one's debtor. Eli's prayer would be answered, for God does not forget what is given to him in faith but returns it in abundance, blessing the open hand.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 2:20
What does 1 Samuel 2:20 mean?
Eli blesses Elkanah and Hannah, asking God to give them more children in place of the son they lent to the Lord.