Samuel Prophet and Judge of Israel

Samuel uniquely bridged two eras, serving as the last of the judges and the first of the prophetic order since Moses. As a judge, he traveled through Israel administering justice; as a prophet, he received and proclaimed God's word.

After Samuel's death, Saul visited the witch of Endor. Remarkably, Samuel actually appeared and delivered words of doom: Saul would die the next day. This illustrates the consequences of disobedience.

Samuel's grief was profound: personal affection for Saul, sorrow over what could have been if Saul had remained faithful, and grief over the suffering Israel would experience.

The name Samuel means 'heard by God' or 'name of God,' reflecting Hannah's statement that she asked the Lord for him. Every time his name was spoken, it testified to answered prayer.