1 Samuel 1:1-10: The Story of Hannah and Her Prayer
The Family of Elkanah
In 1 Samuel 1:1-10, we are introduced to the story of Hannah, a woman who would eventually become the mother of Samuel, a great prophet in Israel. The passage begins by describing the family of Elkanah, a Levite from the tribe of Ephraim.
Elkanah's Two Wives
Elkanah had two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah was childless. This was a source of great sorrow for Hannah, as children were seen as a blessing from God in ancient Israelite culture.
Hannah's Prayer
Every year, Elkanah would take his family to Shiloh to offer sacrifices to the Lord. On one of these occasions, Hannah went to the temple and prayed to the Lord in distress. She wept bitterly and made a vow to God, saying: "O Lord Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head."
Eli's Blessing
As Hannah prayed, Eli, the priest, watched her from a distance. He saw her lips moving, but heard no sound coming from her mouth. Eli mistakenly thought Hannah was drunk, but she explained her situation to him. Eli then blessed Hannah, saying: "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him."
This passage sets the stage for the miraculous birth of Samuel, who would go on to play a crucial role in Israel's history. Hannah's story is one of faith, perseverance, and the power of prayer.
