1 Samuel 7:12 Meaning and Explanation
“Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Samuel sets up a memorial stone named Ebenezer, declaring that the LORD has helped them all the way to this point.
What Does 1 Samuel 7:12 Mean?
After the victory, Samuel raises a stone between Mizpah and Shen and names it Ebenezer, meaning stone of help. With it he speaks words of grateful witness: until now, the LORD has helped us. The stone stands as a lasting marker of God's faithfulness on that day.
Memory is essential to faith, and Samuel builds a sign so the help of God will not be forgotten. Hitherto hath the LORD helped us looks back over every step that led here and gives God the glory for all of it. Such remembrance steadies the heart for what lies ahead, for the God who has helped thus far is the same who will carry His people on. Gratitude raises stones so that future generations will know who their Deliverer is.
1 Samuel 7:12 in the Original Language
Ebenezer (אֶבֶן הָעֵזֶר), 'stone of help' -- from eben, 'stone,' and ezer, 'help.'
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 7:12
What does 1 Samuel 7:12 mean?
Samuel sets up a memorial stone named Ebenezer, declaring that the LORD has helped them all the way to this point.