Understanding 1 Samuel 1:27
Verse: "For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him." (1 Samuel 1:27)
Summary of Meaning
This verse is a profound declaration of gratitude from Hannah, mother of Samuel, reflecting her deep faith and the fulfillment of her prayers. After years of barrenness, Hannah earnestly sought the Lord for a son, promising to dedicate him to God's service if her prayer was answered. This moment captures the essence of divine intervention in Hannah’s life, illustrating the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God to His word.
Contextual Insights
Hannah's story is found in the Old Testament in the Book of 1 Samuel. She faced ridicule and despair for being childless, yet her persistent prayers led to a miraculous answer from God. This sets the stage for the significant role Samuel will play in Israel's history as a prophet and judge.
Commentary Insights
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Matthew Henry:
Henry emphasizes the importance of Hannah's vow and her dedication of Samuel to the Lord. He highlights that sincere prayers often lead to transformative experiences and that Hannah's gratefulness reflects her understanding of God's providence.
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Albert Barnes:
Barnes notes that Hannah's acknowledgment of God's blessings illustrates a fundamental principle of faith—expressing gratitude for specific requests made in prayer. He draws attention to the notion that prayer is powerful and effective, as Hannah’s life demonstrates a direct correlation between her petitions and God's responses.
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Adam Clarke:
Clarke points out that Hannah's prayer was not just a request for a child but also an expression of her deep longing for God’s presence in her life. He remarks that the birth of Samuel was a pivotal moment, marking both Hannah's personal joy and the beginning of a significant chapter in Israel’s spiritual leadership.
Bible Verse Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 1:11: Hannah’s vow to dedicate her child to the Lord.
- Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” This illustrates the alignment of Hannah's desires with God’s will.
- Luke 1:13: Similar miraculous birth narrative with Elizabeth and John the Baptist.
- James 5:16: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective, mirroring Hannah's story.
- 1 Peter 3:12: The righteousness of the Lord hears and answers prayers, connecting with Hannah's faithfulness.
- Isaiah 65:24: God’s promise to answer before we call, reflecting Hannah’s experience.
- John 14:13: Assurance that whatever we ask in Jesus’ name, He will do it, linking prayer with fulfillment.
Thematic Connections
The themes of faith, perseverance in prayer, and divine intervention create a rich tapestry throughout scripture, linking Hannah's experience to various Biblical narratives. These thematic Bible verse connections highlight the continuity of God's faithfulness across different contexts.
In a broader sense, the story encourages believers to pour out their hearts before God, trusting in His plan and timing—a sentiment echoed throughout scriptures on prayer and faith.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
To better understand the connections within scriptures, various resources can be utilized:
- Bible Concordance
- Bible Cross-Reference Guide
- Cross-Reference Bible Study Tools
- Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials
Conclusion
In essence, 1 Samuel 1:27 encapsulates a transformative moment in Hannah's life, showcasing the power of prayer and faith. The cross-references presented allow for a comparative Bible verse analysis that enriches the understanding of God's interaction with humanity throughout the scriptures. The inter-Biblical dialogue between these verses provides a holistic view of how prayer leads to divine answers and fulfillment in the lives of believers.
