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The discovery of a much smaller draft of a multi-volume novel has suggested a partial analogy with the writing of Samuel-Kings in the Hebrew Bible. The draft makes no mention of the novel's main character; and the proposed earlier version of the biblical narrative is silent about the prophetic giants that dominate the text we know. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The text 1 Samuel 3 has been oft studied from the perspective of the call. A deeper analysis reveals that an important theme is the discernment. The paper focuses on the theme of discernment and the answer to the divine call. The topic of discernment is a particularly current theme, especially in the context of the wide access to information and globalization. First, the study clarifies some concepts and terms. Who is Samuel? Why is he proposed as a model? What is the meaning of discernment? Secondly, I make an exegetical analysis of the text in 1 Samuel 3, in order to identify some characteristics of vocation: the call, the discernment of the divine will, and the mission. The final part sets out the implications. It will highlight the elements that render Samuel a symbol of discernment, with an emphasis on the theological and spiritual aspects and the application of the same to the existence of today man. As Samuel, the human being needs to listen, to discern and to act. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the clashes between Samuel and Saul. During the war against the Philistines (1 Samuel 13:7-15) and following the war against the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15), Samuel condemned Saul’s dynasty and rejected his rule. What were the reasons for Samuel’s harsh sentence against Saul? Was Samuel only delivering God’s judgment on Saul, or was there perhaps a personal agenda behind his condemnation? [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although the significance of the shema (Deut 6:4-5) has been noticed by many scholars, its connection with other texts of the Bible has not been explored thoroughly. The author pursues how the shema is reflected in the story of Samuel (1 Samuel 1-15). In addition to 1 Sam 15:22, a famous verse on the shema, three more points will be demonstrated. They are the usage of “with all your heart”; YHWH is One; and the law of ḥerem. The existence of such a connection points to the conclusion that the story of Samuel reflects the shema theology of Deuteronomy 6:4-5. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]