King James Version
What Does 1 Samuel 2:4 Mean?
“The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.”
Context
2
There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.
3
Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. arrogancy: Heb. hard
4
The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.
5
They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.
6
The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **The bows of the mighty men are broken.**—God reverses human conditions, bringing low the wicked, and raising up the righteous.
Von Gerlach writes of these verses that “Every power which will be something in itself is destroyed by the Lord: every weakness which despairs of itself is transformed into power.” “The bows of the heroes,” that is to say, *the heroes of the bow, *the symbol of human power being poetically put first instead of the bearer of the symbol. The next line contains the antithesis: while the heroes rejoicing in their strength are shattered, the tottering, powerless ones are by Him made strong for battle.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Samuel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Samuel 2:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Samuel 2:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge