BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

Judges left off with Israel’s heartbreaking spiral into idol worship, violence, and chaos. The book of Samuel opens a window into God’s plan to save the Israelites from themselves. Oddly, it begins with a woman named Hannah, grieved by her inability to bear children, weeping in a doorway.

Hannah’s anguish turns toward joy when God gives her a son, Samuel, who becomes Israel’s final judge and also a prophet. Like Samson’s mother, Hannah dedicates her son to Yahweh from birth. Unlike Samson, Samuel remains attentive to God and leads Israel with integrity.

Hannah’s family stays faithful, starkly contrasting Israel’s failing priesthood. While she gives her son to serve Yahweh, the high priest Eli allows his sons to abuse their powerful position in the temple and take Yahweh’s offerings for themselves.

Humble Samuel ascends, while the proud sons of Eli descend into darkness. This rise and fall establishes a key recurring pattern throughout the book. Watch the video to learn more about this rising-falling pattern introduced in Hannah’s song, and see how her song introduces the literary structure for the rest of the book.

Reflection Questions

• As you read Hannah’s song in 1 Samuel 2:1-10, you’re seeing a glimpse into her perspective on God’s nature and actions. What parts do you find encouraging? Challenging? How would you describe Hannah’s perspective on God?
• Read and compare three pivotal songs in the Old Testament: 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Hannah’s song; Judges 5:1-31, Deborah’s song; and Exodus 15:1-21, Moses and Miriam’s song. What do you see as the most prominent idea present in all three songs?