Old Testament
1 Samuel 1:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Hannah said to him, "My lord, as surely as you live, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the LORD.
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And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
What 1 Samuel 1:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Hannah approaches Eli, the priest, with a heartfelt declaration. She identifies herself as the woman who had been fervently praying for a child. Her words are filled with sincerity and determination, emphasizing her deep connection to her plea. Hannah's faith in God is evident as she acknowledges the power of prayer in her life. This encounter highlights the importance of being open about our struggles and desires. By sharing her story, Hannah not only seeks validation but also expresses her gratitude for the divine response to her prayers. Her testimony serves as a reminder that God hears us, even in our most desperate moments. Hannah's journey is one of hope, perseverance, and the transformative power of faith, encouraging us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives. Her experience resonates with anyone who has faced challenges and longed for answers, making her story timeless and relatable to all who seek understanding and support in their own lives.
How to apply 1 Samuel 1:26 to your life
When facing challenges, remember to express your feelings and desires openly, just like Hannah did. Share your struggles with trusted individuals who can support you. Trust that your prayers are heard, and remain hopeful for the answers you seek in your life journey. Embrace the power of faith in your daily experiences.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Given to the LORD (1 Samuel 1:19–28)
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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 1:26
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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 1:26 mean?
1 Samuel 1:26 captures Hannah's heartfelt declaration to Eli, identifying herself as the woman who prayed for a child. This moment highlights her faith and the significance of prayer in her life, as she acknowledges God's response to her plea.
What is the significance of Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 1:26?
Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 1:26 signifies her deep faith and desperation for a child. It illustrates the power of sincere prayer and the importance of sharing one's struggles with others, as she openly expresses her journey to Eli.
How does 1 Samuel 1:26 relate to faith and hope?
1 Samuel 1:26 relates to faith and hope by showcasing Hannah's unwavering belief in God's ability to answer her prayers. Her testimony serves as an encouragement for others to trust in God's timing and remain hopeful during challenging times.
What can we learn from Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:26?
From Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:26, we learn the importance of being open about our struggles and desires. Her story encourages us to express our feelings, seek support, and maintain faith in our prayers.
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