1 Samuel 1:6

Because the LORD had closed Hannah's womb, her rival would provoke her and taunt her viciously.

Study Bible

Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb
This phrase highlights the belief in divine sovereignty over human circumstances, particularly in matters of fertility. In ancient Israel, children were seen as a blessing from God, and barrenness was often viewed as a sign of divine disfavor or a test of faith. The Bible frequently records instances where God intervenes in matters of childbirth, such as with Sarah (Genesis 21:1-2) and Rachel (Genesis 30:22-24). The closing of Hannah's womb serves as a backdrop for God's eventual miraculous intervention, emphasizing His power and timing. It also sets the stage for the birth of Samuel, a significant prophet in Israel's history, who would anoint the first two kings of Israel.

her rival would provoke her viciously
Hannah's rival, Peninnah, is described as provoking her, which reflects the cultural and familial tensions that could arise from polygamous marriages. In the ancient Near East, a woman's status was often tied to her ability to bear children, particularly sons. Peninnah's provocations may have stemmed from jealousy or a desire to assert her own status within the household. This dynamic is reminiscent of other biblical stories of rivalry between women, such as Leah and Rachel (Genesis 30:1-8). The use of the word "viciously" underscores the intensity of the emotional pain and social pressure Hannah faced.

to taunt her
The act of taunting highlights the personal and emotional suffering Hannah endured. This taunting was not just a personal attack but also a public humiliation, as childlessness was a visible and socially significant issue. The narrative invites readers to empathize with Hannah's plight and her perseverance in faith despite her circumstances. This theme of enduring faith in the face of adversity is echoed in other biblical figures, such as Job, who remained faithful despite severe trials (Job 1:21-22). Hannah's response to her situation, turning to God in prayer, foreshadows the New Testament teaching of casting all anxieties on God (1 Peter 5:7).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hannah
A devout woman who was deeply loved by her husband Elkanah but was barren. Her account is central to the opening chapters of 1 Samuel.

2. Peninnah
Elkanah's other wife, who had children. She is described as Hannah's rival and often provoked Hannah due to her barrenness.

3. Elkanah
The husband of both Hannah and Peninnah. He is portrayed as a caring husband, especially towards Hannah.

4. Shiloh
The religious center where the tabernacle was located during this period. It is where Elkanah and his family went to worship and sacrifice to the LORD.

5. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who, according to the text, had closed Hannah's womb, setting the stage for the events that follow.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Our Circumstances
Recognize that God is in control, even in difficult situations. Hannah's barrenness was not outside of God's plan, and He used it for a greater purpose.

Responding to Provocation with Faith
Hannah's response to Peninnah's taunts was not retaliation but turning to God in prayer. This teaches us to handle adversity with faith and prayer.

The Power of Persistent Prayer
Hannah's account encourages believers to persist in prayer, trusting that God hears and will respond in His timing.

Understanding God's Timing
God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed. Hannah's eventual blessing of a child came at the right time for God's purposes.

Dealing with Rivalry and Jealousy
The account highlights the destructive nature of rivalry and jealousy, urging believers to seek peace and understanding in relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Hannah and Peninnah challenge us to trust in God's sovereignty over our personal struggles?

2. In what ways can we apply Hannah's response to provocation in our own lives when faced with similar situations?

3. How does the theme of barrenness and God's intervention in 1 Samuel 1:6 connect with other biblical accounts of barren women?

4. What can we learn from Hannah's persistence in prayer, and how can this be applied to our prayer life today?

5. How does understanding God's timing in Hannah's account help us to be patient and trustful in our own life circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30
The account of Rachel and Leah, where Rachel's barrenness and Leah's fertility create a similar dynamic of rivalry and provocation.

Psalm 113:9
This verse speaks of God granting the barren woman a home, making her a joyful mother of children, highlighting God's power to change circumstances.

Luke 1:5-25
The account of Elizabeth, who was also barren until God intervened, drawing a parallel to Hannah's account.