The Prophet Samuel, the fifteenth and final Judge of Israel, lived over 1,100 years before the birth of Christ. A Levite and the son of Elkanah from Mount Ephraim, he was dedicated to God even before birth in answer to the prayers of his mother, Hannah. At the age of three, he was brought to the tabernacle at Shiloh and placed under the care of the High Priest Eli. Samuel grew in holiness and, at age twelve, received a revelation foretelling the destruction of Eli's household due to the sins of his sons. This prophecy came to pass when the Philistines defeated Israel, killing 30,000 men and capturing the Ark of the Covenant. Eli died upon hearing the news, marking a turning point for Israel.

Following Eli’s death, Samuel became judge and led Israel in a time of national repentance and victory. However, his own sons, appointed as judges, were corrupt, prompting the people to demand a king “like other nations.” Though grieved, Samuel anointed Saul as the first king, seeing it as a rejection of God’s kingship. Later, he condemned Saul for disobedience and anointed David as his successor. Samuel died in old age, having played a critical role in Israel’s transition from the era of judges to monarchy. His life is detailed in the books of 1 Samuel and Sirach, and his relics were transferred to Constantinople in 406 A.D.

Troparion — Tone 2

You were given to a barren womb as a most precious gift, / and were sacrificed to your Lord as a whole burnt offering. / You served Him with holiness and righteousness; / therefore O Samuel, God's Prophet, we honor you as an intercessor for our souls.

Troparion — Tone 5

You arrived by your mother's prayers, bearing the name “God has heard.” / You were called by the Lord from infancy, O revered Prophet Samuel, / you shepherded the rebellious people well and became the founder of the kingdom of Israel; / entreat the True God for us who honor you with faith / that He may save our souls.

Kontakion — Tone 8

You were dedicated to God as a revered gift before your conception, and from an early age you served Him like an angel, / O most blessed one, and you were worthy to prophesy concerning the future. / Therefore, we cry to you: “Rejoice, O Samuel, God's Prophet and great High Priest.”

Kontakion — Tone 8

O great Samuel, who anointed the holy God-seer David, / hasten to ask that we may be anointed with the peace of the Holy Spirit, / and to be strangers to evil, as David was for Saul's tormented soul.1