1 Samuel 1:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 1:10
10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 1 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, discipleship. Written during the transition to monarchy (c. 1050-1010 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel transitioned from tribal confederacy to monarchy while facing Philistine military pressure.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Samuel and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Samuel 1:10
10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
Analysis
The Hebrew expression 'bitterness of soul' (marat nephesh) describes extreme anguish reaching to the core of one's being. Hannah's prayer combined with weeping reveals integrated, whole-person engagement with God. The term 'wept sore' literally means 'weeping, she wept' - an intensive construction emphasizing the depth of her grief. Rather than suppressing her emotions before God, Hannah brought her raw pain into His presence. Biblical prayer does not require composed, polished words but honest expression of the heart's deepest cries.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern religious practice typically involved formal, ritualized prayers. Hannah's spontaneous, emotional prayer represents a distinct Israelite understanding of direct, personal access to God without mediating rituals.
Reflection
- Do you feel permission to bring raw, unfiltered emotions before God in prayer?
- How does Hannah's example challenge sanitized, emotionally distant approaches to prayer?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 54:6
- Prayer: Luke 22:44, Hebrews 5:7
- Parallel theme: Judges 21:2, Job 7:11, 9:18, 10:1, Psalms 50:15, 91:15