1 Samuel 7:17

Then he would return to Ramah because his home was there, and there he judged Israel and built an altar to the LORD.

Study Bible

But he would always return to Ramah
The phrase "he would always return" indicates a habitual action, suggesting Samuel's consistent dedication to his roots and responsibilities. "Ramah" is significant as Samuel's birthplace and home, located in the hill country of Ephraim. Historically, Ramah was a central location for Samuel's ministry, symbolizing stability and continuity in his leadership. The Hebrew root for "Ramah" means "height" or "high place," which can metaphorically represent Samuel's elevated status as a prophet and judge in Israel.

because his home was there
The word "home" signifies more than just a physical dwelling; it represents a place of belonging and identity. For Samuel, Ramah was not only his birthplace but also the center of his spiritual and judicial activities. This highlights the importance of having a strong foundation and a place of spiritual anchorage. In a broader sense, it reflects the biblical principle of being rooted in one's faith and community.

and there he judged Israel
The role of a judge in Israel was multifaceted, involving leadership, military guidance, and the administration of justice. Samuel's judging at Ramah underscores his role as a divinely appointed leader who provided guidance and governance to the people. The Hebrew word for "judge" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) implies not only legal adjudication but also the restoration of order and righteousness. Samuel's judgment was rooted in his commitment to God's law and his desire to lead Israel in accordance with divine principles.

and built an altar to the LORD
Building an altar was a significant act of worship and dedication to God. It was a place for offering sacrifices and seeking divine guidance. The act of building an altar in Ramah signifies Samuel's devotion and his role as a spiritual leader who prioritized worship and communion with God. The Hebrew word for "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach) is derived from a root meaning "to sacrifice," emphasizing the altar's purpose as a place of offering and consecration. This action reflects Samuel's commitment to ensuring that the worship of Yahweh remained central in the life of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet, judge, and leader of Israel who played a crucial role in transitioning Israel from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He is known for his dedication to God and his role in anointing the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

2. Ramah
Samuel's hometown, located in the territory of Benjamin. It served as his base of operations and a place of spiritual leadership where he judged Israel and built an altar to the LORD.

3. Judging Israel
Samuel's role as a judge involved leading, guiding, and making judicial decisions for the people of Israel. His leadership was marked by a return to faithfulness to God and a rejection of idolatry.

4. Altar to the LORD
The altar Samuel built in Ramah was a place of worship and sacrifice, symbolizing his commitment to God and serving as a focal point for the spiritual life of the community.

Teaching Points

Faithful Leadership
Samuel's consistent return to Ramah and his role as a judge highlight the importance of faithful and consistent leadership rooted in God's guidance.

Centrality of Worship
The altar Samuel built signifies the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. It serves as a reminder to prioritize worship and maintain a personal and communal relationship with God.

Home as a Spiritual Base
Samuel's return to Ramah underscores the significance of having a spiritual base or home where one can grow in faith and lead others.

Commitment to God's Call
Samuel's life exemplifies a commitment to God's call, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their divine assignments despite challenges or changes in societal structures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samuel's role as a judge in Israel compare to the leadership roles we see in the church today?

2. In what ways can we make our homes a spiritual base like Ramah was for Samuel?

3. How does the building of an altar in Ramah reflect the importance of worship in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Samuel's faithful leadership that can be applied to our roles in our communities and workplaces?

5. How does the transition from judges to kings in Israel's history challenge us to trust in God's timing and plan for leadership in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 3:19-21
These verses describe Samuel's growth as a prophet and his recognition throughout Israel, establishing his authority and connection to God.

1 Samuel 8:1-3
This passage highlights the transition from Samuel's judgeship to the demand for a king, showing the people's desire for a different form of leadership despite Samuel's faithful service.

Judges 21:25
This verse provides context for the period of the judges, characterized by a lack of centralized leadership and the people's tendency to do what was right in their own eyes, contrasting with Samuel's faithful leadership.

Genesis 12:7
This verse describes Abraham building an altar to the LORD, drawing a parallel to Samuel's actions and emphasizing the importance of worship and dedication to God.