1 Samuel 1:6

Letters to the Faithful - 1 Samuel 1:6

Berean Standard Bible

Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival would provoke her viciously to taunt her.

King James Bible

And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.

Hebrew Text:

וְכִֽעֲסַ֤תָּה צָֽרָתָהּ֙ גַּם־כַּ֔עַס בַּעֲב֖וּר הַרְּעִמָ֑הּ כִּֽי־סָגַ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה בְּעַ֥ד רַחְמָֽהּ׃

Transliteration:

Vekhi'asattah tzaratah gam-ka'as ba'avur har'ima ki-sagar Adonai be'ad rachmah.

-------------------------------------

Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb

This phrase highlights the belief in divine sovereignty over human circumstances, particularly in matters of fertility. In ancient Israel, children were seen as a blessing from God, and barrenness was often viewed as a sign of divine disfavor or a test of faith. The Bible frequently records instances where God intervenes in matters of childbirth, such as with Sarah (Genesis 21:1-2) and Rachel (Genesis 30:22-24). The closing of Hannah's womb serves as a backdrop for God's eventual miraculous intervention, emphasizing His power and timing. It also sets the stage for the birth of Samuel, a significant prophet in Israel's history, who would anoint the first two kings of Israel.

her rival would provoke her viciously

Hannah's rival, Peninnah, is described as provoking her, which reflects the cultural and familial tensions that could arise from polygamous marriages. In the ancient Near East, a woman's status was often tied to her ability to bear children, particularly sons. Peninnah's provocations may have stemmed from jealousy or a desire to assert her own status within the household. This dynamic is reminiscent of other biblical stories of rivalry between women, such as Leah and Rachel (Genesis 30:1-8). The use of the word "viciously" underscores the intensity of the emotional pain and social pressure Hannah faced.

to taunt her

The act of taunting highlights the personal and emotional suffering Hannah endured. This taunting was not just a personal attack but also a public humiliation, as childlessness was a visible and socially significant issue. The narrative invites readers to empathize with Hannah's plight and her perseverance in faith despite her circumstances. This theme of enduring faith in the face of adversity is echoed in other biblical figures, such as Job, who remained faithful despite severe trials (Job 1:21-22). Hannah's response to her situation, turning to God in prayer, foreshadows the New Testament teaching of casting all anxieties on God (1 Peter 5:7).

----------------------------------

1 Samuel 1:6, which states, “Because the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her” (NIV), serves as a poignant moment in the narrative of Hannah’s struggle with infertility and the relational tensions within her family, setting the stage for her transformative encounter with God. To fully understand the significance of this verse, we must explore its context within the opening chapter of 1 Samuel, its theological and emotional depth, its portrayal of human suffering and divine sovereignty, and its relevance for both the original audience and contemporary readers. This commentary will delve into the verse’s meaning by analyzing the dynamics of Hannah’s situation, the role of divine providence, the impact of Peninnah’s provocation, and the broader spiritual lessons embedded in the text, weaving together its historical, literary, and applicative dimensions.

The book of 1 Samuel opens during the late period of the judges, a time of spiritual and social instability in Israel, where “everyone did as they saw fit” (Judges 21:25). The narrative shifts focus to the personal story of Elkanah’s family in Ramah, introducing Hannah, his beloved but barren wife, and Peninnah, his other wife who had children. The annual pilgrimage to Shiloh, where the family worships and sacrifices to the Lord, provides the backdrop for 1 Samuel 1:6. Verses 1-5 establish the emotional and spiritual context: Hannah’s infertility is a source of deep sorrow, compounded by Peninnah’s rivalry and Elkanah’s preferential love for Hannah despite her barrenness. Verse 6 zooms in on the relational and theological tension, highlighting the cause of Hannah’s barrenness (“the Lord had closed her womb”) and the exacerbating factor of Peninnah’s provocation, which intensifies Hannah’s pain.

The phrase “the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb” is central to the verse’s theological weight, reflecting the biblical worldview that God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including fertility. In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were seen as a divine blessing and a sign of favor (Psalm 127:3-5), while infertility was often perceived as a source of shame or divine disfavor. The text’s attribution of Hannah’s barrenness to God does not imply that He is punishing her but rather situates her suffering within His sovereign plan. This echoes other Old Testament narratives, such as those of Sarah (Genesis 16:2) and Rachel (Genesis 30:2), where God’s control over the womb serves as a prelude to His miraculous intervention. For Hannah, this divine closure is both a source of pain and a catalyst for her dependence on God, as seen in her subsequent prayer at Shiloh (1 Samuel 1:10-11). The statement underscores God’s purposeful involvement in human affairs, setting the stage for His response to Hannah’s faith.

The second part of the verse, “her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her,” introduces the human dimension of Hannah’s suffering through Peninnah’s actions. The Hebrew term for “rival” (tsarah, often translated as “adversary” or “co-wife”) captures the competitive dynamic of polygamous households, where status and security often depended on bearing children, particularly sons. Peninnah’s provocation is described as intentional and persistent (the Hebrew verb suggests ongoing action), aimed at irritating or distressing Hannah. This taunting likely exploited Hannah’s deepest insecurity—her inability to conceive—magnifying her emotional anguish. In the cultural context, where a woman’s worth was tied to motherhood, Peninnah’s behavior reflects not only personal cruelty but also the social pressures that intensified Hannah’s sense of failure. The text does not excuse Peninnah’s actions but presents them as a human reality, contrasting her insensitivity with Hannah’s faith-filled response later in the chapter.

Theologically, 1 Samuel 1:6 raises profound questions about the interplay of divine sovereignty and human suffering. The attribution of Hannah’s barrenness to God might seem troubling to modern readers, as it appears to cast Him as the cause of her pain. However, the broader biblical narrative suggests that God’s sovereignty operates within a framework of grace and redemption. Hannah’s story does not end in barrenness but in the birth of Samuel, a key figure in Israel’s history, demonstrating that God’s “closing” of her womb was part of a larger purpose to display His power and faithfulness. The verse also highlights the reality of human sinfulness in Peninnah’s actions, showing how suffering can be compounded by the brokenness of human relationships. Together, these elements point to a God who is present in suffering, working through it to accomplish His redemptive plans, even when those plans are not immediately clear.

In the narrative context, 1 Samuel 1:6 serves multiple purposes. It deepens the portrayal of Hannah’s character, presenting her as a woman of faith who endures profound personal and social pain. Her response to suffering—turning to God in prayer rather than retaliating against Peninnah—foreshadows her spiritual depth and sets her apart as a model of trust in God. The verse also introduces the theme of divine reversal, a recurring motif in 1 Samuel (e.g., Hannah’s song in 2:1-10), where God lifts up the lowly and humbles the proud. Peninnah’s provocation, while cruel, becomes a catalyst for Hannah’s desperate prayer, which leads to the birth of Samuel and the transformation of Israel’s spiritual landscape. Additionally, the verse sets the stage for the contrast between the corrupt priesthood at Shiloh (1 Samuel 2:12-17) and Hannah’s godly devotion, highlighting her role in God’s redemptive plan.

For the original audience, likely Israelites in the early monarchy or post-exilic period, 1 Samuel 1:6 offered both encouragement and challenge. Hannah’s story would have resonated with those facing personal or communal struggles, reminding them that God is sovereign over their circumstances and responsive to their prayers. The verse also served as a reminder of the consequences of human sinfulness, as seen in Peninnah’s behavior, urging the community to pursue compassion and unity rather than rivalry. Hannah’s experience of suffering under divine sovereignty would have encouraged perseverance, pointing to God’s ability to bring blessing out of pain.

For contemporary readers, 1 Samuel 1:6 speaks powerfully to the realities of suffering, relational conflict, and divine purpose. Hannah’s infertility resonates with those facing unfulfilled longings, whether for children, relationships, or other desires, offering hope that God sees and hears their pain. The verse challenges believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when His purposes are mysterious, and to approach Him in prayer as Hannah did. Peninnah’s provocation serves as a warning against using others’ vulnerabilities to wound them, calling Christians to empathy and kindness, especially in contexts of communal or familial tension. The verse also invites reflection on the ways God uses suffering to shape character and accomplish His plans, encouraging believers to look for His redemptive work in their struggles.

Practically, 1 Samuel 1:6 calls the church to minister to those who suffer, whether from physical, emotional, or social pain. It challenges communities to create spaces where people like Hannah can express their grief and find support, rather than judgment or provocation. The verse also underscores the power of prayer as a response to suffering, encouraging believers to bring their deepest hurts to God with honesty and faith. For individuals, it offers a model in Hannah’s resilience, urging perseverance and trust in God’s timing, even when His purposes are not immediately clear.

In conclusion, 1 Samuel 1:6 captures the heart of Hannah’s struggle, revealing the interplay of divine sovereignty and human brokenness in her experience of infertility and rivalry. Rooted in its historical and narrative context, the verse sets the stage for God’s redemptive work through Hannah’s faith, offering a timeless testimony to His faithfulness. For the original audience and believers today, it provides hope in suffering, a call to compassion, and an invitation to trust in the God who transforms pain into purpose.

--------------------------------

Grace and peace to you, dearly beloved, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I write to you today with a heart that yearns for your steadfastness in faith and your perseverance in the way of righteousness. Though the days are filled with uncertainty and trials abound on every side, take courage, for the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Let us reflect upon the life of Hannah, the faithful woman whose story we read in the sacred writings of old. The Scripture tells us that her rival provoked her severely, causing her anguish and deep sorrow, because the Lord had closed her womb. In these words, we find a profound revelation of the mystery of suffering and the testing of the soul. Consider, my beloved, that it was not an enemy of the world who tormented her but one who shared her household, one who had access to her life and proximity to her heart. How painful is the wound that comes not from afar, but from near; not from the stranger, but from one who knows your vulnerabilities.

Yet the text also says that this provocation arose because the Lord Himself had withheld from Hannah the very thing for which her heart longed. Herein lies a truth that we must carefully discern: there are seasons when the Lord permits trials and allows unfulfilled desires not as a sign of His displeasure, but as a preparation for a greater glory to be revealed. The closed womb was not a mark of rejection, but the stage upon which God would perform a mighty work—a son would be born who would anoint kings and turn the hearts of a nation back to God.

So it is with you, dear brothers and sisters. Some of you labor under unanswered prayers. Others endure the sharp barbs of those who misunderstand your calling or mock your hope. There are dreams in your heart that seem perpetually deferred, and your soul cries out, "How long, O Lord?" You may even wonder if the delays and denials are divine punishments. But I tell you, by the authority of Scripture and the witness of the Spirit, that the Lord’s delays are not denials, and His hidden purposes will yet be revealed in due time.

Consider how Hannah responded. She did not retaliate with bitterness nor withdraw into silent despair. Instead, she poured out her soul before the Lord. She wept and prayed, refusing to cease her supplication though her heart was heavy with grief. In this, she teaches us the way of perseverance in prayer and trust in God’s sovereign timing.

Likewise, I urge you: do not allow the provocations of others or the apparent withholding of blessings to drive you away from the presence of the Lord. Let every sorrow become a sacrifice of prayer; let every longing be laid upon the altar of faith. When others mock or misunderstand, when their words cut and their attitudes bruise, remember that their provocations cannot thwart the purposes of God for your life. Their taunts may be loud, but the voice of the Shepherd is gentle and sure. Follow Him.

In your workplaces, in your families, in your churches—yes, even among fellow believers—you may encounter rivals, critics, or those who seem to thrive where you struggle. Envy, comparison, and self-pity will knock upon the door of your heart. Reject them. The path of comparison leads only to despair, but the path of trust leads to joy. Know this: the God who closed Hannah’s womb for a season did so that, when He opened it, His glory would be magnified beyond measure.

And when, at last, the Lord answered her prayer, Hannah responded with gratitude and surrender. She gave back to God the very gift she had long awaited, dedicating her son Samuel to lifelong service in the temple. Oh, what a lesson this is for us! When your prayers are answered, do not grasp the gift selfishly but hold it with open hands. Live as one who understands that all you have is from the Lord and for His glory.

Therefore, beloved, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Do not lose heart when trials persist. Do not allow bitterness to root within you when provocations sting. Rather, embrace the way of patient endurance, continual prayer, and unwavering trust. The same God who remembered Hannah will remember you. The same Lord who turned her sorrow into singing will turn your mourning into dancing. His purposes are never thwarted, and His love for you is steadfast and sure.

I pray that the God of hope may fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. May you, like Hannah, be found faithful in the place of waiting, and joyful in the day of fulfillment. The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

--------------------------------

Almighty and everlasting God, our Father in heaven,

the One who sees all things and knows the depths of every human heart,

we come before You now with reverence and trust,

lifting up our voices in prayer, for You alone are worthy.

You are the Author of life and the Sovereign over all seasons.

You open doors that no one can shut and close doors that no one can open.

You appoint times of weeping and times of rejoicing, times of waiting and times of fulfillment.

Nothing is hidden from Your sight, and nothing unfolds apart from Your perfect wisdom.

We remember before You the story of Hannah, Your faithful servant,

whose heart was heavy with longing, whose spirit was grieved under provocation,

whose tears fell before You in the quiet place of prayer.

You saw her sorrow; You heard her cries; You did not despise her pain.

Though You had closed her womb for a time, You had not closed Your heart to her.

And in the fullness of Your purpose, You answered her prayer and gave her joy.

O Lord, we confess that in this life we too encounter many burdens—

desires unfulfilled, prayers unanswered, wounds inflicted by the words and actions of others.

We feel the sting of provocation, the weight of comparison, the ache of deferred hope.

At times, we wonder if we have been forgotten, if You have turned Your face from us.

But today we remember that You are the God who sees and remembers,

the God who works in secret and brings forth life where there was barrenness,

the God who weaves beauty from brokenness and triumph from trial.

So we come to You boldly, not in our own strength but through the blood of Jesus,

asking that You would meet us in the places where our hearts are weary and raw.

Strengthen those among us who are carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone.

Comfort those who are provoked and misunderstood,

who face criticism, jealousy, or scorn from others—sometimes from those closest to them.

Grant them the grace to respond not with bitterness or resentment,

but with steadfast trust and unwavering hope in You.

Teach us, Lord, to pour out our souls before You in every circumstance.

Help us to resist the temptation to withdraw in silence or to retaliate in anger.

Instead, let us bring every longing, every grief, every unanswered question

to the altar of prayer, knowing that You hear us and that You are faithful.

Lord, for those whose dreams remain unfulfilled—

for the childless, the lonely, the unemployed, the sick, the grieving, the oppressed—

we ask that You would minister to their hearts today.

Remind them that delay does not mean denial,

that their value is not measured by outward success,

that You are working even in the hidden places, preparing a testimony of Your glory.

Grant patience and perseverance in the waiting.

Teach us to trust Your timing, which is always perfect.

And when You bring about the fulfillment of Your promises,

may we respond as Hannah did—with worship, with surrender, with gratitude.

Let us hold loosely to every blessing, knowing that all we have is from You

and belongs to You for Your eternal purposes.

Make us a people who encourage one another in the waiting,

who speak words of life rather than words of provocation,

who stand with those who suffer,

who rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.

O Spirit of the Living God, move among us now.

Heal wounds that no human hand can touch.

Renew weary hearts.

Restore joy to the sorrowing.

Lift the heads of those who are bowed low.

And above all, fix our eyes on Jesus,

the Author and Finisher of our faith,

who Himself endured scorn and sorrow for the joy set before Him.

Teach us to walk in His footsteps—

with humility, with patience, with hope unwavering.

We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior,

trusting that You hear us and that You will do exceedingly abundantly

beyond all that we ask or imagine, according to Your power at work within us.

Amen.