Old Testament
1 Samuel 1:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Hannah was in bitterness of soul. She prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly.
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And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
What 1 Samuel 1:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Hannah was deeply troubled and felt a heavy sadness in her heart. She longed for a child but faced constant pain and ridicule from others. In her anguish, she turned to God in prayer, pouring out her heart and tears. This moment of vulnerability showed her desperation and faith. Hannah's prayer was not just a request; it was a heartfelt cry for help. She believed that only God could change her situation. Her tears reflected her deep desire and hope for a child, revealing the intensity of her emotions. This scene illustrates the power of prayer in times of distress and the importance of seeking God when we feel overwhelmed. Hannah's story encourages us to bring our struggles to God, trusting that He hears us and cares for our needs. Her experience reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we can find solace in prayer and the presence of God, who understands our pain and desires to help us through it. Hannah's journey is a testament to the strength found in faith and the transformative power of sincere prayer.
How to apply 1 Samuel 1:10 to your life
When you feel overwhelmed by sadness or challenges, remember that it's okay to express your feelings to God. Take time to pray honestly about your struggles. Trust that God hears you and cares deeply about your situation. Your vulnerability can lead to healing and hope. Seek support from others who can encourage you in your journey of faith and prayer. In moments of despair, turn to God for comfort and strength, just as Hannah did.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Hannah's Prayer (1 Samuel 1:1–18)
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Samuel
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 1:10
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 1:10 mean?
1 Samuel 1:10 describes Hannah's deep emotional pain as she longs for a child. In her sorrow, she turns to God in prayer, showing her desperation and faith in seeking help.
What is the meaning of bitterness of soul in 1 Samuel 1:10?
Bitterness of soul in this verse refers to Hannah's intense emotional suffering and anguish. It highlights her deep sadness and longing for a child, which leads her to pray fervently to God.
How does Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 1:10 relate to faith?
Hannah's prayer reflects her faith as she seeks God's intervention in her life. Despite her bitterness, she believes that God can change her situation, demonstrating trust in His ability to help.
What can we learn from Hannah's experience in 1 Samuel 1:10?
Hannah's experience teaches us the importance of expressing our struggles to God through prayer. It encourages us to be vulnerable in our prayers and to trust that God hears and cares for us in our times of need.
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