This chapter contrasts Hannah's righteousness with Eli's corrupt sons. Hannah's magnificent prayer celebrates God's sovereignty and His pattern of reversing human fortunes—exalting the humble and humbling the proud—themes that would later echo in Mary's Magnificat. Meanwhile, Eli's sons Hophni and Phinehas abuse their priestly office by taking choice portions of sacrifices and engaging in sexual immorality at the tabernacle entrance. Young Samuel serves faithfully amid this corruption, growing in favor with both God and people—language later used of Jesus. A prophet pronounces judgment on Eli's household for honoring his sons above God, declaring that the priestly line will be cut off and replaced with a faithful priest. This juxtaposition of faithful and unfaithful leadership sets up the book's central themes.