What does 1 Samuel 1:5 mean?
"But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb." - 1 Samuel 1:5
The Bible verse 1 Samuel 1:5 in the King James Version (KJV) reads, "But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the Lord had shut up her womb." This verse is a poignant and significant passage in the narrative of Hannah, a woman who experienced the pain of infertility and the deep desire for a child.
The context of this verse is set in the time of the judges in Israel, a period marked by moral and spiritual decline. The verse introduces us to Hannah, who is one of two wives of Elkanah. The other wife, Peninnah, has children, while Hannah, despite being dearly loved by her husband, is unable to bear children. This inability to conceive was considered a great sorrow and shame in ancient Israelite society, as it was believed that having children was a sign of God's favor and blessing.
The verse begins with the mention of Elkanah giving a "worthy portion" to Hannah, indicating that he treated her with honor and respect, even though she was unable to give him children. This serves as a contrast to the treatment Hannah receives from Peninnah, who provokes her and makes her miserable because of her barrenness (1 Samuel 1:6). In this verse, we see the theme of love and compassion, as Elkanah's love for Hannah is evident despite her inability to conceive.
The latter part of the verse states, "but the Lord had shut up her womb," pointing to the belief that infertility was ultimately under the control of God. This phrase serves as a reminder of the theological understanding of infertility in ancient Israel, where it was often believed to be a result of divine intervention.
The verse also sets the stage for the miraculous birth of Samuel, who would become an instrumental figure in Israelite history as a prophet and leader. This foreshadowing adds depth and significance to the narrative, as it highlights the divine plan at work amidst Hannah's personal struggles.
The themes present in this verse are relatable and timeless. It speaks to the pain of unfulfilled desires, the longing for love and acceptance, and the deep emotional turmoil that accompanies infertility. The verse also raises questions about the nature of suffering and the role of God in human struggles.
Moreover, the verse presents a message of hope and redemption. Despite Hannah's barrenness and the suffering it brings, the narrative ultimately shows God's faithfulness and provision. It serves as a reminder that God can bring forth blessings and fulfill His promises in unexpected and miraculous ways.
Symbolism can also be found in this verse, as Hannah's barrenness can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual desolation and the yearning for new life. Her eventual conception and the birth of Samuel represents the transformative power of God and the potential for new beginnings.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 1:5 in the King James Version offers a rich and layered portrayal of Hannah's personal anguish and the larger theological and spiritual themes at play. It serves as a testament to the human experience of suffering, the enduring hope for redemption, and the profound ways in which God's plan unfolds in unexpected ways.
Have questions about 1 Samuel 1:5?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
1 Samuel 1:5 Artwork
1 Samuel 1:5 - "But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb."
"But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb." - 1 Samuel 1:5
1 Samuel 5:1 - "And the Philistines took the ark of God, and brought it from Eben-ezer unto Ashdod."
1 Samuel 7:5 - "And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD."
1 Samuel 5: 3-4
1 Samuel 15:5 - "And Saul came to a city of Amalek, and laid wait in the valley."
1 Samuel 5:5 - "Therefore neither the priests of Dagon, nor any that come into Dagon's house, tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod unto this day."
1 Samuel 28:5 - "And when Saul saw the host of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart greatly trembled."
1 Samuel 5:12 - "And the men that died not were smitten with the emerods: and the cry of the city went up to heaven."
1 Samuel 5:2 - "When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the house of Dagon, and set it by Dagon."
1 Samuel 14:5 - "The forefront of the one was situate northward over against Michmash, and the other southward over against Gibeah."
1 Samuel 30:5 - "And David's two wives were taken captives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite."
1 Samuel 31:5 - "And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him."
2 Samuel 1:5 - "And David said unto the young man that told him, How knowest thou that Saul and Jonathan his son be dead?"
1 Samuel 29:5 - "Is not this David, of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands?"
1 Samuel 24:5 - "And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt."
"And the Philistines took the ark of God, and brought it from Eben-ezer unto Ashdod." - 1 Samuel 5:1
1 Samuel 4:5 - "And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again."
1 Samuel 10:1 Samuel anoniting Saul
2 Samuel 5:1 - "Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh."
1 Samuel 1:15-17
1 Samuel 11:5 - "And, behold, Saul came after the herd out of the field; and Saul said, What aileth the people that they weep? And they told him the tidings of the men of Jabesh."
1 Samuel 5:6 - "But the hand of the LORD was heavy upon them of Ashdod, and he destroyed them, and smote them with emerods, even Ashdod and the coasts thereof."
"And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD." - 1 Samuel 7:5
"And Saul came to a city of Amalek, and laid wait in the valley." - 1 Samuel 15:5
1 Samuel 22:5 - "¶ And the prophet Gad said unto David, Abide not in the hold; depart, and get thee into the land of Judah. Then David departed, and came into the forest of Hareth."
1 Samuel 17:5 - "And he had an helmet of brass upon his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass."
1 Samuel 23:5 - "So David and his men went to Keilah, and fought with the Philistines, and brought away their cattle, and smote them with a great slaughter. So David saved the inhabitants of Keilah."
Trusting God and Finding Peace: 1 Samuel 1-2
1 Samuel 25:5 - "And David sent out ten young men, and David said unto the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name:"