In the history of Israel, Shiloh, and Jerusalem are important places. Shiloh was the religious center for almost 400 years, where the Tabernacle and the Ark of Covenant were there. Shiloh is mentioned 32 times, once about the Messiah and the rest about the place. The town was destroyed first by the Philistines and again by the Assyrians. (I Samuel 4; Psalm 78:58-60) Shiloh could be understood from the three perspectives of Person, Promise, and Place.
Person: The first mention is by Jacob when he blessed his sons. He said neither the scepter will depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff between his feet until Shiloh comes. Jacob prophetically refers to the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Ruler the Messiah would be honored by all nations. He will rule the Gentiles. (Romans 15:12)
Promise: The name Shiloh is derived from shala, to be at ease. That means one who gives peace. The meaning could be the rightful Messiah or the Messiah of Righteousness. (Ezekiel 21:37) Paul writes that the Lord Himself our peace. (Ephesians 2:14) The Lord Jesus Christ promised to give peace that the world can neither give nor take away. (John 14:27)
Place: From the time Israel entered the Promised Land until the time of Prophet Samuel. It was a central location for all tribes. Here Hannah came, prayed, and got Samuel, whom she dedicated to the service of the Lord. (I Samuel 1:1-28; 3:21) When the Benjamites were decimated in the civil war, the remaining men were advised to get girls who would dance in the feast from Shiloh. (Judges 21:19) Jeremiah reminded Israel that God judged Shiloh and that it remains in ruins. (Jeremiah 7:12) Hosting the House of God or the Ark of Covenant is not a guarantee against the judgment of God. Similarly, God judged Jerusalem, the Temple that Solomon built was destroyed and later again in 70 AD.
Prominence: God, His Name, and His Words (Promises) are Holy and important. When they are rejected, God will reject the place and His glory will leave that place.
Do I give prominence to God and His Words?