1:1–7:17 This first major division of the book begins and ends in Samuel’s home town of Ramah (1:1; 7:17). The focus of these chapters is on the life and ministry of Samuel. First Samuel 1:1–4:1a concentrates on Samuel as a prophet of the Lord (see the concluding statement of 4:1a, “and the word of Samuel came to all Israel”). The text in 4:1b–7:17 emphasizes Samuel as judge (see 7:17, “there he judged Israel”). 1:1 a certain man. This verse resembles the introduction to the birth of Samson in Judg.