King James Version
1 Samuel 3:3 in the King James Version says “And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;” — study this verse from 1 Samuel chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;”
1 Samuel 3:3 · King James Version
And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see;
And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;
That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.
And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“of God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
“was laid down”
H7901to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
“of the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
“of God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
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.
1 Samuel 3:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to 1 Samuel 3:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge