Topical Encyclopedia Eli, a significant figure in the Old Testament, served as the high priest and judge of Israel. His account is primarily found in the first book of Samuel, where he is depicted as a leader during a transitional period in Israel's history, preceding the establishment of the monarchy.Family and Background Eli was a descendant of Ithamar, the fourth son of Aaron, the brother of Moses. As high priest, Eli held a position of great religious and judicial authority in Israel. He resided in Shiloh, where the tabernacle of the Lord was located, and where he ministered before the Ark of the Covenant. Eli had two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who also served as priests. However, they were described as "wicked men" who "had no regard for the LORD" (1 Samuel 2:12). Their sinful actions, including the desecration of sacrifices and immoral behavior, brought disgrace upon the priesthood and provoked God's anger. Role and Ministry Eli's role as high priest involved overseeing the sacrificial system, maintaining the tabernacle, and serving as a judge for the people of Israel. Despite his high office, Eli is often remembered for his failure to restrain his sons and their corrupt practices. The Lord sent a prophet to Eli, warning him of the impending judgment on his household due to his sons' sins and his own failure to discipline them (1 Samuel 2:27-36). Interaction with Samuel One of the most notable aspects of Eli's life is his relationship with Samuel, who would become a pivotal prophet and leader in Israel. Samuel's mother, Hannah, dedicated him to the Lord's service, and he was raised in the tabernacle under Eli's guidance. Eli played a crucial role in Samuel's early life, particularly in recognizing and affirming Samuel's call from God. When the Lord called Samuel, Eli instructed him to respond, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9). Judgment and Death The fulfillment of the prophecy against Eli's house came during a battle with the Philistines. The Israelites, led by Hophni and Phinehas, took the Ark of the Covenant into battle, hoping it would secure victory. However, the Philistines defeated Israel, killed Eli's sons, and captured the Ark. Upon hearing the news, Eli, who was ninety-eight years old and blind, fell backward from his seat, broke his neck, and died (1 Samuel 4:18). Legacy Eli's legacy is a complex one. While he served as a high priest and judge, his tenure is overshadowed by his failure to discipline his sons and the resulting judgment on his household. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of godly leadership and the consequences of neglecting one's spiritual responsibilities. Despite his shortcomings, Eli's role in nurturing Samuel, who would become a faithful prophet and leader, highlights the enduring impact of mentorship and guidance in the service of God. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 1:25And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 2:11 1 Kings 2:27 Strong's Hebrew 5941. Eli -- a priest at Shiloh... Eli's (1). Eli. From alah; lofty; Eli, an Israelite high-priest -- Eli. see HEBREW alah. 5940, 5941. Eli. 5942 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/5941.htm - 6k Library Herein is Declared what Befell the Sons of Eli, the Ark, and the ... Concerning the Birth of Samuel; and How He Foretold the Calamity ... High Priest Eli and Samuel. Our Compassionate High Priest How David Fled to Ahimelech and Afterwards to the Kings of the ... How under Eli's Government of the Israelites Booz Married Ruth ... How the Philistines Made Another Expedition against the Hebrews ... Samuel --The Child of the Temple. The Child Samuel. Resources Who was Elkanah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were Hophni and Phinehas? | GotQuestions.org What does the term “Ichabod” mean in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Eli: His Benediction Upon Hannah Eli: His Solicitude for the Ark Eli: Indulgent to his Corrupt Sons Eli: Misjudges and Mistakenly Rebukes Hannah Eli: Officiates when Samuel is Presented at the Tabernacle Eli: Prophecies of Judgments Upon his House Related Terms Eli-e-ho-e'nai (2 Occurrences) |
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