Bible Dictionary
Eli
Eli was Israel’s high priest and judge at Shiloh during Samuel’s childhood. Though devout and humble, he failed to restrain his corrupt sons; after the ark was captured and they were killed, Eli died upon hearing the news.
Biblical Usage
Eli appears in the narratives concerning Samuel, the priesthood, and the ark. His family was judged because of his sons’ misconduct and his insufficient correction of them. His death followed Israel’s defeat by the Philistines and the capture of the ark.
Scripture References