1 Samuel 2:5

The well-fed hire themselves out for food, but the starving hunger no more. The barren woman gives birth to seven, but she who has many sons pines away.

Study Bible

The well-fed hire themselves out for food
This phrase highlights a reversal of fortunes, a common theme in biblical literature. It reflects the idea that those who were once prosperous and self-sufficient find themselves in need. This can be seen as a divine intervention where God humbles the proud and exalts the humble. The concept is echoed in the Magnificat (Luke 1:53), where Mary praises God for filling the hungry with good things and sending the rich away empty. This reversal serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, emphasizing that material wealth is not a guarantee of security.

But the starving hunger no more
This part of the verse speaks to God's provision and care for those in need. It reflects the biblical theme of God as a provider, as seen in the provision of manna for the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16). The transformation from hunger to satisfaction symbolizes spiritual fulfillment and divine blessing. It also foreshadows the teachings of Jesus, who declared Himself the Bread of Life, promising that those who come to Him will never hunger (John 6:35).

The barren woman gives birth to seven
In the ancient Near Eastern context, barrenness was often seen as a curse or a sign of divine disfavor. The birth of seven children, a number symbolizing completeness and perfection in the Bible, represents a complete reversal of this condition. This phrase can be connected to the story of Hannah, the mother of Samuel, who was initially barren but was blessed by God with a son after fervent prayer (1 Samuel 1). It also prefigures the miraculous births in the Bible, such as that of Isaac to Sarah and John the Baptist to Elizabeth, highlighting God's power to bring life where there was none.

But she who has many sons pines away
This phrase contrasts the previous one, illustrating the theme of reversal once more. In the cultural context, having many sons was considered a sign of blessing and strength. However, this statement suggests that even those who seem secure in their blessings can experience loss and decline. It serves as a warning against complacency and pride, reminding believers that true security and blessing come from God alone. This idea is echoed in the story of Job, who lost his children and possessions but remained faithful to God, ultimately being restored (Job 1-42).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hannah
The mother of Samuel, who was initially barren but prayed fervently to God for a child. Her prayer and subsequent song of thanksgiving form the context of this verse.

2. Elkanah
Hannah's husband, who had another wife, Peninnah, who had children while Hannah was barren.

3. Peninnah
Elkanah's other wife, who had many children and often provoked Hannah because of her barrenness.

4. Samuel
The son of Hannah, dedicated to the Lord, who would become a significant prophet and judge in Israel.

5. Shiloh
The place where the tabernacle was located and where Hannah prayed for a son.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Reversals
God has the power to reverse human circumstances, turning lack into abundance and sorrow into joy. This is evident in Hannah's transformation from barrenness to motherhood.

Faith and Prayer
Hannah's account encourages believers to persist in prayer and faith, trusting that God hears and responds to the cries of His people.

Humility and Dependence on God
The verse contrasts self-sufficiency with dependence on God, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from Him, not from our own efforts.

God's Justice and Provision
The verse illustrates God's justice in providing for the needy and humbling the proud, encouraging believers to trust in His provision.

Hope for the Hopeless
The transformation of the barren woman into a joyful mother serves as a message of hope for those facing seemingly impossible situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hannah's account in 1 Samuel 2:5 illustrate the theme of divine reversal, and what does this teach us about God's character?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of persistent prayer, as demonstrated by Hannah, to our own lives?

3. How does the contrast between those who are full and those who are hungry in 1 Samuel 2:5 challenge our understanding of self-sufficiency versus reliance on God?

4. What other biblical accounts of barren women being blessed with children can you think of, and how do they reinforce the message of 1 Samuel 2:5?

5. How can the message of hope and transformation in 1 Samuel 2:5 encourage someone facing a difficult or seemingly hopeless situation today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 21
The account of Sarah, who was barren and later gave birth to Isaac, parallels Hannah's experience and highlights God's power to change circumstances.

Luke 1
The account of Elizabeth, who was also barren and later gave birth to John the Baptist, echoes the theme of divine intervention in human barrenness.

Psalm 113:9
This verse speaks of God granting the barren woman a home, making her a joyful mother of children, reinforcing the theme of God's provision and reversal of fortunes.