Old Testament
1 Samuel 1:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This went on year after year. Every time they went up to the house of the LORD, Peninnah would provoke Hannah, so she wept and couldn't eat.
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And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.
What 1 Samuel 1:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Every year, Hannah and her family traveled to worship at the house of the LORD. During these visits, Peninnah, Hannah's rival, would taunt her about not having children. This constant provocation caused Hannah deep sorrow, leading her to cry and lose her appetite. Despite her faith, the pain of being mocked weighed heavily on her. Hannah's struggle highlights the emotional turmoil that can come from comparison and rivalry. It reminds us that even in our faith journeys, we can face challenges that make us feel inadequate. Hannah's story encourages us to seek comfort and strength in our faith, especially when we feel overwhelmed by life's difficulties. Her experience is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that our feelings are valid and understood by God. In the midst of her pain, Hannah's story ultimately leads to hope and transformation, showing that God hears our cries and can change our circumstances in unexpected ways. This narrative invites us to reflect on our own challenges and how we respond to them.
How to apply 1 Samuel 1:7 to your life
When faced with challenges or feelings of inadequacy, remember that it's okay to express your emotions. Seek support from friends or loved ones, and turn to your faith for strength. Like Hannah, you can find hope even in difficult times. Trust that your struggles can lead to growth and transformation in your life. Embrace your journey with courage and resilience, knowing you are not alone in your experiences. You can overcome.
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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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 1:7 mean?
1 Samuel 1:7 describes Hannah's annual visits to the house of the LORD, where she faced provocation from Peninnah, her rival. This verse highlights Hannah's emotional pain due to her inability to have children, leading her to weep and lose her appetite.
What is the significance of Peninnah in 1 Samuel 1:7?
Peninnah is significant in 1 Samuel 1:7 as she represents rivalry and the pain of comparison. Her taunts towards Hannah about not having children deepen Hannah's sorrow and illustrate the emotional struggles that can arise in relationships.
What does the phrase 'provoked Hannah' mean in 1 Samuel 1:7?
The phrase 'provoked Hannah' in 1 Samuel 1:7 means that Peninnah intentionally taunted and mocked Hannah, causing her distress. This provocation highlights the emotional turmoil Hannah experienced during her visits to worship.
What can we learn from Hannah's experience in 1 Samuel 1:7?
Hannah's experience in 1 Samuel 1:7 teaches us about the impact of rivalry and emotional pain. It reminds us that it's important to acknowledge our feelings and seek support during difficult times.
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