Definition: And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 1:12. It's a really interesting and somewhat symbolic part of the story! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a moment when God started to intervene in a prayer. “As she continued praying before the LORD…” – This refers to a woman named Hannah. She was fervently praying to God for her son, Samuel. “…that Eli marked her mouth.” – This is the key part. Eli, a priest and leader of the tribe of Israel, noticed that Hannah’s prayer was so intense, so full of emotion and desperation, that it was blocking her mouth. It was like she was saying too much, and preventing her from fully expressing herself to God. What does this tell us about Hannah? She was deeply troubled: The verse suggests Hannah wasn't just praying; she was experiencing a strong emotional crisis. She needed God’s help: The act of Eli marking her mouth is often interpreted as God recognizing the immense power and importance of her prayer. It signifies that God knew Hannah’s heart was so heavy with longing for Samuel. Why is this significant? This is a classic example of God working through people, not just directly. It shows that God can use ordinary individuals to connect with Him and fulfill His purposes. It also highlights the importance of prayer – it's a powerful tool for connecting with the divine. In short, this verse portrays a moment where God recognized Hannah’s heartfelt plea and gently guided her to communicate more effectively through her prayers. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this specific verse in more detail?