It is difficult to understand the significance of the use of the verb stood forth in this context. But since it has not been used previously in the appearances of the LORD, it may be taken as a kind of special emphasis on God’s self-revelation. The verb means to “take one’s stand,” “take a position.” New American Bible translates “revealed his presence,” although most English versions say simply “stood there.”

Calling as at other times: literally “called as time on time.” The expression is a common way of saying “as usual” (Moffatt). The same expression is used in Num 24.1 and in the story of Samson (Judges 16.20; 20.30, 31), where it is also translated “as at other times.”

There seems to be no special significance in the fact that Samuel does not use the name of Yahweh, LORD, which was a part of what Eli had told him to say when the LORD reappeared. Some scholars, however, speculate that the young Samuel could not bring himself to pronounce the divine name. In any case, if it is natural to do so, translators should maintain the difference that exists between the two verses in the original text.

On thy servant and hears, see the comments on verse 9.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on the First and Second Books of Samuel, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .