The nursing lamb would have been at least eight days old if it was to be used in a burnt offering (see Leviticus 22:27).1 The burnt offering was a sacrifice that emphasized devotion to God. The entire animal would be burnt on the altar with the fire and smoke rising to heaven being a pleasing aroma in the sight of the Lord (see Leviticus 1:1–17). The use of a blameless animal symbolized a life of complete devotion and this is pleasing in God’s sight.2 Samuel’s prayers and actions are that of an intercessor, similar to what Moses had done previously (see Numbers 21:7),3 and they will subsequently be linked together in the Psalms (Psalm 99:6).4 With their prayers of intercession, both Samuel and Moses serve as a picture of the great High Priest, Jesus Christ (1 Samuel 12:23; Jeremiah 15:1; Luke 22:31–32; Romans 8:34).5
9 Samuel prit un agneau de lait, et l'offrit tout entier en holocauste à l'Eternel. Il cria à l'Eternel pour Israël, et l'Eternel l'exauça.