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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 1 - Verse 15

1:15
And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD.

Meaning

Here, in the book of 1 Samuel, we find Hannah, a woman who was deeply distressed and burdened in her spirit. When approached by Eli the priest, she denied being drunk or under the influence of alcohol, but instead revealed the true source of her anguish - her soul poured out before the Lord. This verse reflects Hannah's emotional and spiritual state as she came before God in prayer, pouring out her heart and troubles in the presence of the Lord. It speaks to the deep sincerity and desperation with which she sought God's intervention in her life. Hannah's words remind us of the power of genuine and heartfelt prayer, where we can lay bare our souls before God, seeking His comfort, guidance, and mercy. In times of distress and sorrow, like Hannah, may we also find the courage and faith to pour out our hearts before the Lord, knowing that He hears our cries and is ever present to bring us peace and healing.

Theological Overview

When Hannah responds to Eli, we see a depth of emotion in her words as she describes her state of being. The phrase "sorrowful spirit" in this verse provides us with insight into Hannah's emotional state. The term "sorrowful" in this context carries connotations of deep grief and anguish. It reveals Hannah's profound sense of sadness and despair. Additionally, her statement that she has not consumed wine or strong drink but has poured out her soul before the Lord further illustrates her sincerity and devotion in prayer. The act of pouring out one's soul is a powerful image of total surrender and vulnerability before God. Hannah's words show us her commitment to pouring out her heart and all her emotions in prayer to the Lord, seeking solace and comfort in Him. This verse not only highlights Hannah's emotional turmoil but also her unwavering faith and trust in the Lord.

American Standard Version

And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I poured out my soul before Jehovah.
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