Definition: And she [was] in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 1:10. It's a really important moment in the story of Samuel and his relationship with Hannah. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: Hannah was deeply upset and heartbroken. She felt incredibly bitter and sad. This wasn’t just a little disappointment; she felt a profound sense of loss and pain. Let's unpack the details: “She [was] in bitterness of soul…” – "Bitterness of soul" is a fancy way of saying she was filled with anger, resentment, or sadness. It wasn’t just feeling sad; it was a deep-seated negativity. “…and prayed unto the LORD…” - She started praying to God. This shows her seeking his help and comfort. “And wept sore.” – This is the key part! "Wept sore" means she cried very heavily, with great sorrow and pain. It wasn’t just a little sniffle; it was a powerful outpouring of emotion. So, what does this tell us about Hannah? It suggests: She was grieving: She was mourning the loss of her son Samuel. She felt wronged: The verse implies she felt like someone had taken something precious from her and hurt her deeply. This could be a literal loss (like the death of her son) or a metaphorical loss – perhaps a feeling of betrayal or disappointment in her life. Why is this important? This passage shows that Hannah was incredibly vulnerable and emotionally strong. It's a powerful example of how even deep sorrow can lead to prayer and seeking God’s help. It also highlights the importance of acknowledging our emotions – it’s okay to feel sad, and it’s good to reach out for support. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Samuel? Discuss what this passage might teach us about faith or resilience?