1 Samuel 2:18-21

Samuel's ministry in the tabernacle

18. Samuel ministered The writer dwells upon the contrast between Samuel and the sons of Eli. We see the child attending upon Eli in the sanctuary, growing before the Lord, in favour both with the Lord and with men, chosen to be God's messenger to Eli, and finally re-establishing the broken intercourse between Jehovah and His people. On the other hand we see Hophni and Phinehas abusing their sacred office, sinking from rapacity and profanity to open profligacy, unchecked by rebuke or warning, and at last perishing miserably by the hands of the Philistines.

a linen ephod The ephod was a garment covering the shoulders, (Lat. superhumerale), and secured round the waist by a girdle. It was the distinctive dress of priests (1 Samuel 2:28, ch. 1 Samuel 22:18), but was occasionally worn by others engaged in religions ceremonies, e.g. David (2 Samuel 6:14). The High Priest wore a special ephod (Exodus 28:6 ff.).