Hannah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is celebrated for her unwavering faith and the fulfillment of a solemn vow she made to God. Her account is primarily found in the first two chapters of the First Book of Samuel. 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 barren, which caused her deep distress, especially in the face of provocation from Elkanah's other wife, Peninnah, who had children.

Hannah's Faith

Hannah's faith is exemplified in her persistent prayer and trust in God despite her prolonged period of childlessness. Each year, when Elkanah went to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts, Hannah would accompany him. It was during one of these visits that Hannah, in her deep anguish, prayed earnestly to the LORD, weeping bitterly. She made a vow, saying, "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" (1 Samuel 1:11).

Hannah's prayer was marked by sincerity and humility, as she poured out her soul before the LORD. Her faith was not deterred by the misunderstanding of Eli, the priest, who initially thought she was drunk. Instead, she explained her situation, and Eli responded with a blessing, saying, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant the petition you have asked of Him" (1 Samuel 1:17).

Fulfillment of Her Vow

In due time, the LORD remembered Hannah, and she conceived and bore a son, whom she named Samuel, meaning "heard of God," because she said, "I have asked for him from the LORD" (1 Samuel 1:20). True to her vow, once Samuel was weaned, Hannah took him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh. She brought along a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine as offerings. Presenting Samuel to Eli, she declared, "As surely as you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the LORD. 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" (1 Samuel 1:26-28).

Hannah's fulfillment of her vow is a testament to her integrity and devotion. She willingly gave back to God what she had longed for, demonstrating her understanding that Samuel was a gift from the LORD. Her actions reflect a deep trust in God's plan and a recognition of His sovereignty.

Hannah's Song of Praise

Following the fulfillment of her vow, Hannah offered a prayer of thanksgiving, often referred to as Hannah's Song, recorded in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. This prayer is a profound expression of praise and theological insight, acknowledging God's holiness, sovereignty, and justice. Hannah exclaims, "My heart rejoices in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD. My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in Your salvation" (1 Samuel 2:1). Her song not only celebrates her personal deliverance but also anticipates God's broader redemptive work, foreshadowing themes that resonate throughout Scripture.

Hannah's account is a powerful example of faith, prayer, and the fulfillment of vows. Her life and actions continue to inspire believers to trust in God's faithfulness and to honor commitments made to Him.