1 Samuel 1:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 1:11
11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 1 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, creation, love. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 1:11
11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head.
Analysis
Hannah's vow contains several significant elements. She addresses God as 'LORD of hosts,' acknowledging His sovereign power over all creation. Her self-designation as 'handmaid' (amah, female servant) three times emphasizes humble submission. The request for a 'man child' (literally 'seed of men') would provide both personal vindication and national blessing. The Nazirite vow ('no razor upon his head') dedicated the child to lifelong sacred service (Numbers 6:1-21). Hannah's promise to 'give him unto the LORD' transformed a personal petition into an offering for God's purposes.
Historical Context
The Nazirite vow typically involved abstaining from wine, avoiding corpses, and not cutting hair. While usually temporary, lifelong Nazirites included Samson (by divine command) and Samuel (by maternal vow). John the Baptist would later follow this pattern (Luke 1:15).
Reflection
- What does Hannah's willingness to give back the very thing she prayed for teach about true devotion?
- How might God be calling you to dedicate something precious to His service?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 1:19, Genesis 29:32, Numbers 6:5, 6:8, Judges 11:30
- Parallel theme: Genesis 28:20, 30:22, Judges 13:5, Psalms 25:18, Ecclesiastes 5:4