Definition: And [as] he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 1:7. It's a really interesting story about God’s relationship with Samuel and his daughter, Hannah. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Hannah was incredibly devout – she prayed and sought God constantly. She wanted to honor Him and offer something significant to Him. When her son, Benjamin, died, she felt deeply sad and heartbroken. Let's unpack it: “And [as] he did so year by year…” : This tells us that Hannah’s devotion wasn’t just a one-time thing. She consistently prayed and sought God. It was a pattern of her life. “…when she went up to the house of the LORD…” : This refers to the Tabernacle in Jerusalem, where God lived with his people – a place of worship and holiness. Hannah was going to this place. "...so she provoked her..." : This is a really powerful phrase. She wasn't just going to the house of the Lord; she was actively provoking it. She was making a significant offering, a prayer, or an act of devotion. "...she wept, and did not eat." This is the most striking part. Hannah’s grief was so profound that she simply cried – she wasn't trying to be strong or cheerful. She didn’t eat, which was unusual for a woman at that time. What does this tell us about Hannah? She was deeply connected to God: Her dedication to prayer and worship was incredibly important to her. She felt immense sorrow: The loss of her son caused her deep pain, and she couldn't find comfort in food or celebration. It highlights the importance of faith and devotion: Hannah’s actions demonstrated a strong commitment to God and his presence. Overall, this verse describes a woman who sought God with unwavering dedication and experienced profound sorrow as a result. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail?