This lesson introduces us to two of Israel's leaders. At this time, Eli was a priest and judge of Israel. As such, he lived and worked in Israel's major place of worship at Shiloh. Samuel was a young boy, born as a result of a barren woman's answered prayer. To keep the vow she had made to God, when Samuel was weaned his mother brought him to live and serve with Eli. At the time of 1 Samuel 3, Samuel is believed to be about 11 years old.