What does 1 Samuel 1:15 mean?
What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 1:15?

No, my lord

• Hannah’s opening words show immediate respect for Eli, even after he has mistaken her silent prayer for drunkenness. First Peter 2:17 reminds believers to “Show proper respect to everyone,” including leaders who err.

• Her gentle correction models Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” Rather than reacting defensively, she chooses humility and honor, paving the way for understanding.


Hannah replied.

• Hannah uses her voice to clarify, not to accuse. James 1:19 counsels us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” She embodies that wisdom—she waited until Eli finished speaking, then offered her reply.

• Her response also illustrates Matthew 5:37—letting her “Yes” be yes and her “No” be no. She states the truth plainly, without embellishment, deception, or resentment.


I am a woman troubled in spirit.

• Hannah candidly reveals her inner anguish. Psalm 34:18 assures that “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted,” a promise Hannah clings to.

• By naming her pain, she lives out Psalm 62:8: “Pour out your hearts before Him.” Authenticity in prayer invites divine comfort.

• Her sorrow centers on barrenness (1 Samuel 1:6–7), yet she interprets her distress spiritually, not merely socially or biologically. She sees God as the One who can address her deepest need.


I have not had any wine or strong drink,

• Hannah clears away the false accusation without defensiveness. Romans 13:13 exhorts believers to behave decently, “not in carousing and drunkenness,” and she affirms her obedience to such standards.

• Her statement quietly underscores that true spiritual fervor does not require intoxicants; instead, Ephesians 5:18 calls us to “be filled with the Spirit.”

• She protects her witness: by ensuring Eli understands her sobriety, she guards God’s reputation and her own, following 2 Corinthians 6:3—“We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path.”


but I have poured out my soul before the LORD.

• The contrast (“but”) highlights the real cause of her intense appearance: fervent prayer, not alcohol. Psalm 142:2 mirrors her language—“I pour out my complaint before Him.”

• Her pouring out is complete surrender, echoing Philippians 4:6–7: presenting requests to God ushers in peace.

• This phrase anticipates the answer God will give: Samuel’s birth. First Samuel 1:19–20 confirms that “the LORD remembered her,” illustrating James 5:16—the earnest prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.

• Her example encourages believers to take every profound longing directly to God, trusting His attentive care (1 Peter 5:7).


summary

Hannah’s words reveal a pattern for godly response under misunderstanding: honor authority, speak truth with grace, acknowledge personal anguish, maintain integrity, and entrust every burden to the Lord. Her respectful correction, transparent heart, and faith-filled prayer invite us to pour out our own souls before the Lord, confident that He hears, understands, and, in His perfect timing, answers.

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