Hannah’s Prayer

Overview

• Testament: Old
• Book: 1 Samuel
• Chapters: 1 Samuel 1-2
• Summary: Hannah cries out to the LORD at Shiloh for a son, vows to dedicate him, and later responds with a song of praise.

Details

Provoked by barrenness and grief, Hannah pours out her soul before the LORD and vows that any son granted to her will be given back to God’s service. The LORD answers, and Hannah’s song in chapter 2 celebrates divine reversal - the proud brought low, the weak lifted up, and the LORD reigning as king.

Key People Involved

• Hannah - Woman of prayer and dedication
• Eli - Initially misunderstands her, then blesses her
• Samuel - Child given in answer to prayer

Key Places

• Shiloh - Site of prayer and dedication

Important Verses

“For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him.” - 1 Samuel 1:27

Cross-References

• Related events: Samuel’s Calling, Demand for a King
• Related books: 1 Samuel, Luke

Notes

Hannah’s prayer opens 1 Samuel by showing that God’s kingdom work begins in hidden dependence, not public power.