1 Samuel 1:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Samuel 1:7
7 And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.
Chapter Context
1 Samuel 1 is a biographical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 1:7
7 And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.
Analysis
The repetitive nature of Peninnah's provocation ('year by year') reveals sustained cruelty rather than isolated incidents. The sacred feast days that should have brought joy became occasions of deepest sorrow for Hannah. Her response of weeping and refusing food indicates profound depression. Yet this annual cycle of suffering prepared Hannah's heart for the prayer that would change Israel's history. God often uses prolonged trials to deepen our prayers from casual requests to desperate, faith-filled petitions.
Historical Context
The annual pilgrimage to Shiloh likely coincided with one of the three major festivals. Given the timing of Samuel's birth and Hannah's subsequent visits, scholars suggest this may have been the Feast of Tabernacles, a seven-day autumn celebration of ingathering.
Reflection
- How can recurring seasons of difficulty become opportunities for spiritual growth?
- What does Hannah's perseverance in attending worship despite her pain teach about faithful endurance?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord