1 samuel 1:7 - As he did so year by year, when she went up to Yahweh’s house. Her rival provoked her; therefore she wept, and didn’t eat.

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 1:7

What does "1 samuel 1:7" mean?


This verse from 1 Samuel 1:7 describes a painful and recurring situation for Hannah:

"As he did so year by year, when she went up to Yahweh’s house." This refers to Elkanah, Hannah's husband, making an annual pilgrimage to the house of Yahweh (the Lord) in Shiloh to offer sacrifices. Hannah accompanied him on these trips.
"Her rival provoked her..." Hannah's rival was Peninnah, Elkanah's other wife. Peninnah had children, while Hannah was barren. Peninnah deliberately taunted and ridiculed Hannah because of her inability to conceive.
"...therefore she wept, and didn’t eat." The provocation from Peninnah deeply upset Hannah. The emotional distress caused her to weep and lose her appetite. Her sorrow was so intense that she couldn't bring herself to eat.

In essence, this verse illustrates Hannah's deep distress and sorrow caused by her barrenness, exacerbated by the cruel taunting of her rival wife. This is a key element in setting up the narrative of Hannah's fervent prayer and God's eventual answer.