Old Testament
1 Samuel 1:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Hannah was deeply troubled and felt a heavy sadness in her heart.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Hannah was in bitterness of soul. She prayed to the LORD and wept bitterly.
And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of 1 Samuel
1 Samuel 1: The Birth of Samuel
The book opens during the time of the judges, introducing a man named Elkanah with two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. While Peninnah has children, Hannah is barren and is cruelly taunted by her rival. During their annual pilgrimage to the sanctuary at Shiloh, the deeply distressed Hannah prays silently to the Lord, weeping and vowing that if God will give her a son, she will dedicate him to the Lord's service for his entire life as a Nazirite. Eli, the high priest, sees her lips moving and initially mistakes her for a drunken woman, but after she explains her sorrowful prayer, he blesses her, saying, "Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition."
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