Topical Encyclopedia The "Psalms of Hannah" refers to the prayerful song of thanksgiving offered by Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel, as recorded in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. This passage is often regarded as one of the earliest examples of a psalm in the Old Testament, expressing deep gratitude and theological insight. Hannah's song is a profound reflection on God's sovereignty, justice, and faithfulness, and it serves as a model of praise and thanksgiving for answered prayer.Context and Background Hannah was one of the two wives of Elkanah, a man from the hill country of Ephraim. She was deeply loved by her husband, yet she suffered greatly due to her barrenness, which was a source of personal anguish and social reproach in ancient Israelite culture. Her rival, Peninnah, who had children, provoked her bitterly to irritate her (1 Samuel 1:6). In her distress, Hannah turned to the Lord in fervent prayer at the tabernacle in Shiloh, vowing that if God granted her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord's service all the days of his life (1 Samuel 1:11). God answered Hannah's prayer, and she bore a son, whom she named Samuel, meaning "heard by God." True to her vow, after weaning him, she brought Samuel to the tabernacle and presented him to Eli the priest, dedicating him to the Lord's service (1 Samuel 1:24-28). The Song of Hannah Hannah's song, recorded in 1 Samuel 2:1-10, is a rich tapestry of theological themes and personal devotion. It begins with an expression of personal joy and exultation in the Lord: "My heart rejoices in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD. My mouth speaks boldly against my enemies, for I rejoice in Your salvation" (1 Samuel 2:1). Here, "horn" symbolizes strength and honor, indicating that Hannah's dignity and strength have been restored by God's intervention. The song continues with a series of declarations about God's unique holiness and power: "There is no one holy like the LORD. Indeed, there is no one besides You! And there is no rock like our God" (1 Samuel 2:2). Hannah acknowledges God's unparalleled nature and His role as a secure refuge. Hannah's prayer also emphasizes God's justice and His ability to reverse human circumstances: "The LORD brings death and gives life; He brings down to Sheol and raises up. The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts" (1 Samuel 2:6-7). This reflects a deep understanding of God's providential control over the affairs of humanity, highlighting His power to transform situations according to His will. The song concludes with a prophetic vision of God's ultimate victory and the establishment of His anointed king: "He will give strength to His king and exalt the horn of His anointed" (1 Samuel 2:10). This anticipates the future monarchy in Israel and, from a Christian perspective, foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Theological Significance Hannah's psalm is significant for several reasons. It is a testament to the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God in responding to the cries of His people. Her song serves as a reminder that God is intimately involved in the lives of His children, attentive to their needs and capable of altering their circumstances in profound ways. Moreover, Hannah's song is a precursor to the Magnificat, the song of Mary in Luke 1:46-55, which similarly exalts God's mighty deeds and His care for the humble and lowly. Both songs celebrate God's intervention in human history and His commitment to justice and righteousness. In the broader biblical narrative, Hannah's psalm underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes through unexpected means. It invites believers to trust in God's timing and to remain faithful in prayer, confident that He hears and answers according to His perfect will. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 2:1-10And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoices in the LORD, my horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over my enemies; because I rejoice in your salvation. Nave's Topical Index Library Nature of Covenanting. Israel's Hope Encouraged; Index of Subjects. Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ... part ii Resources What are the penitential psalms? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the psalms of praise? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Psalms - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Psalms of David in Celebrating his Deliverance Psalms of David: At the Close of his Reign Psalms of David: Upon the Occasion of Moving the Ark of the Covenant Psalms of Hannah, in Thankfulness for a Son Psalms of Hezekiah, Celebrating Deliverance from Death Psalms of Moses, Celebrating the Deliverance at the Red Sea Psalms: Didactic Songs Composed by Moses, Celebrating the Providence, Righteousness Psalms: Praise for God's Attributes Psalms: Song of Deborah, Celebrating Israel's Victory Over Sisera Psalms: Thanksgiving for God's Goodness to Good Men Psalms: Thanksgiving for God's Mercies to Individuals Related Terms |
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