Hannah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is a profound example of parental affection and devotion. Her account is primarily found in the first two chapters of the book of 1 Samuel. Hannah's narrative is not only a testament to her faith and perseverance but also a vivid illustration of the deep love and commitment that characterize godly parenting.

Hannah was one of the two wives of Elkanah, a man from the hill country of Ephraim. Despite Elkanah's love for her, Hannah was deeply distressed because she was barren, while Elkanah's other wife, Peninnah, had children. Peninnah's provocations added to Hannah's sorrow, yet her response was not one of bitterness but of fervent prayer and supplication to the Lord.

In 1 Samuel 1:10-11 , we read, "In her bitter distress, Hannah prayed to the LORD and wept with many tears. And she made a vow, pleading, 'O LORD of Hosts, if only You will look upon the affliction of Your maidservant and remember me, not forgetting Your maidservant but giving her a son, then I will dedicate him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall ever come over his head.'"

Hannah's prayer reveals her deep desire for a child, not merely for personal fulfillment but with the intention of dedicating him to the Lord's service. Her vow demonstrates a selfless love, prioritizing her child's spiritual calling over her own maternal instincts to keep him close.

The Lord answered Hannah's prayer, and she bore a son, whom she named Samuel, meaning "heard by God." True to her vow, after Samuel was weaned, Hannah brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh. In 1 Samuel 1:27-28 , she declares, "I prayed for this boy, and since the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him, I now dedicate the boy to the LORD. For as long as he lives, he is dedicated to the LORD." And they worshiped the LORD there.

Hannah's actions exemplify the ultimate act of parental affection: the willingness to surrender her beloved child to God's purposes. Her love for Samuel was not possessive but sacrificial, rooted in a profound trust in God's plan for his life. This act of dedication was not a one-time event but a continuous commitment, as evidenced by her annual visits to Samuel, bringing him a robe she made (1 Samuel 2:19).

Moreover, Hannah's faithfulness was rewarded by God, who blessed her with more children, as noted in 1 Samuel 2:21 : "So the LORD attended to Hannah, and she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the LORD."

Hannah's account serves as an enduring model for parents, illustrating the virtues of faith, prayer, and the willingness to entrust one's children to the Lord. Her life encourages parents to nurture their children's spiritual growth and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.1 Samuel 2:19
Moreover his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice.
Nave's Topical Index

part ii
... his last sigh. And how parents grieve when their beloved children die,
when they lie breathless before their eyes! But, brethren ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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