1 Samuel 3:21 (KJV): "And the Lord appeared again in Shiloh: for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the Lord."

This verse comes from the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically from the book of 1 Samuel. The passage centers around young Samuel, who was serving the priest Eli in the tabernacle at Shiloh. This verse is a pivotal moment in the narrative of Samuel's life and serves as a turning point in his relationship with God.

The verse opens with "And the Lord appeared again in Shiloh," signifying a divine presence and intervention. This appearance of the Lord in Shiloh holds great significance as it sets the stage for the revelation of God's will to Samuel. Shiloh was a central place of worship and the location of the tabernacle, making it a fitting setting for the divine interaction described in this verse.

The phrase "for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh" highlights the personal nature of God's interaction with Samuel. The use of "revealed himself" suggests a direct and intimate revelation of God's presence and purpose to Samuel. This divine revelation signifies that God chose to make Himself known to Samuel in a special and profound way, indicating that Samuel was being called to a significant role in God's plan.

The verse concludes with "by the word of the Lord," emphasizing that the revelation to Samuel came through the spoken word of God. This further emphasizes the direct communication between God and Samuel, as well as the authority and authenticity of the message being conveyed.

The significance of this verse extends beyond the immediate context of Samuel's story, carrying themes of divine calling, revelation, and obedience. The passage underscores the idea that God chooses to reveal Himself to individuals in unique and personal ways, calling them to specific purposes and roles within His plan. In Samuel's case, this revelation marked the beginning of his prophetic ministry and his role as a leader in Israel.

The verse also touches on the theme of obedience to God's word. In this instance, Samuel demonstrates his obedience by faithfully listening to and following the instructions given to him by God. This serves as a model for all believers, emphasizing the importance of attentiveness to God's voice and willingness to respond obediently to His calling.

Furthermore, the verse holds symbolic significance in the broader biblical narrative. Samuel's experience of divine revelation and subsequent obedience foreshadows similar encounters with God in the lives of other biblical figures, such as Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah. These encounters serve as examples of God's faithfulness in revealing His will to His chosen servants throughout history.

In a broader thematic sense, this verse also points to the faithfulness of God in maintaining His presence among His people. The reappearance of the Lord in Shiloh signifies His enduring commitment to engage with and guide His people, reinforcing the idea of a covenantal relationship between God and Israel.

In conclusion, 1 Samuel 3:21 from the King James Version of the Bible captures a profound moment of divine revelation and calling in the life of Samuel. Through its themes of divine interaction, obedience, and faithfulness, this verse offers rich insights into God's relationship with His people and the ways in which He chooses to communicate His will. This passage stands as a testament to the timeless and transcendent nature of God's engagement with humanity, inviting readers to reflect on their own receptivity to God's word and calling.