The Prayers of Hannah

Summary

---

The Chosen People – “The Prayers of Hannah”

Podcast Host: Pray.com
Episode Date: April 27, 2026

---

Episode Overview

In “The Prayers of Hannah,” The Chosen People podcast explores the poignant biblical story of Hannah—a woman burdened by infertility and societal shame—whose heartfelt prayer and unwavering faith lead to the birth of the prophet Samuel. Through immersive storytelling, the episode invites listeners into Hannah’s personal struggles, perseverance in faith, and ultimate joy, highlighting timeless lessons about hope, suffering, and the power of prayer.

---

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Hannah’s Pain, Peninnah’s Provocation, and Elkana’s Compassion

• Setting: The story opens in Ramah, capturing Hannah's deep sorrow over her inability to bear children while enduring the taunts of her co-wife, Peninnah.
• Peninnah’s Taunts: Peninnah’s remarks are harsh and dismissive, underscoring the social stigma of barrenness.
  • Memorable line: “It seems there are still no little ones in your house to enjoy it, Hannah. Perhaps it isn’t your season. Maybe the Lord will remember you next year, if he chooses to remember you at all.” – Peninnah (06:06)
• Hannah’s Response: Despite Peninnah’s cruelty, Hannah chooses silence and internalizes her pain, feeling a mix of shame, guilt, and grief.
• Elkana’s Support: Elkana tries to comfort Hannah, albeit imperfectly.
  • Notable quote: “Am I not better to you than 10 sons?” – Elkana (08:23)
  • Hannah replies, capturing her despair: “You are kind, my husband, but I have found that a heart without hope cannot find the strength to rejoice.” (08:51)
• Elkana’s Encouragement: He reminds Hannah that hope remains as long as God watches over them, and that healing often comes through brokenness.
  • “As long as the Lord is watching over us, there will always be a reason to hope, and that alone will allow even the weakest of hearts to rejoice.” – Elkana (09:24)

2. The Journey to Shiloh and the Weight of Barrenness

• Pilgrimage: The family’s annual journey to Shiloh is marked by Hannah’s isolation and internal suffering, magnified by the presence—and reminders—of Peninnah's children.
• Enduring Insensitivity: Peninnah continues to make barbed comments, exemplified by:
  • “A mother’s hands are always full.” – Peninnah (11:19)
• Hannah’s Emotional State: Through moments of introspection, Hannah’s pain from childlessness is shown as physical and spiritual isolation.

3. The Sacrificial Meal and Elkana’s Love

• In Shiloh: Upon arrival, Elkana distributes portions of the sacrificial meal, giving Peninnah and her children their shares.
• A Double Portion: Elkana gifts Hannah a double portion as a symbol of his extraordinary love for her.
  • “Yes, a double portion for you, Hannah, for my love for you is great, even greater than any earthly sorrow.” – Elkana (18:30)
• Bittersweet Gift: Hannah accepts, but the gesture brings both comfort and pain—serving as a reminder of what she lacks.

4. Hannah’s Prayer and Eli’s Misunderstanding (22:31 – 25:51)

• At the Tabernacle: In her anguish, Hannah pours out her heart to God.
  • She pleads: “Lord of Hosts, if you will indeed look upon the affliction of your servant and remember me… If you will give your servant a son, then I will give him to you all the days of his life.” – Hannah (22:31)
• Eli’s Confrontation: Mistaking Hannah’s silent prayer for drunkenness, Eli rebukes her.
  • “This woman is a drunken mess… How long will you grow on? Come now, put your wine away from you.” – Eli (23:48)
• Hannah’s Defense: She explains her true sorrow and intention.
  • “I have only spoken from my abundant grief and heartache.” – Hannah (24:47)
• Eli’s Blessing: Realizing her distress, Eli quickly softens and pronounces a blessing.
  • “May it please the Lord that you go in peace and may the God of Israel grant you your petition that you have made to him on this day.” – Eli (25:29)

5. The Lord Remembers Hannah

• Renewed Hope: Eli’s words become a turning point for Hannah; she rejoices for the first time in years.
• God’s Answer: In time, Hannah conceives and gives birth to Samuel.
  • “I shall call him Samuel, for I have asked for him from the Lord.” – Hannah (27:27)
• Transformed Spirit: The narrative emphasizes Hannah's freedom from bitterness, fulfillment in motherhood, and gratitude for God’s grace.

6. Hannah Fulfills Her Vow

• Dedication of Samuel: After weaning Samuel, Hannah keeps her promise to dedicate him to God.
  • “Once Samuel is weaned, I shall bring him to appear before the Lord. There he shall remain forever.” – Hannah (28:28)
• Reunion with Eli (30:05 – 31:46):
  • Hannah introduces Samuel to Eli, explaining her story and fulfillment of her vow.
    • “For this child I prayed, and through your blessing I held on to hope. And now I stand here testifying that the Lord has granted me my petition… as long as he lives, he shall be lent to the Lord.” – Hannah (30:54)
• Hannah’s Song: She offers a public prayer of thanksgiving, exalting God’s holiness and faithfulness.
  • “My heart exalts in the Lord… There is none holy like the Lord. There is no rock like our God.” – Hannah (31:46)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Hannah’s despair and longing:
  • “A heart without hope cannot find the strength to rejoice.” – Hannah (08:51)
• Elkana’s enduring support:
  • “As long as the Lord is watching over us, there will always be a reason to hope.” – Elkana (09:24)
• Eli’s change of heart:
  • “May the God of Israel grant you your petition.” – Eli (25:29)
• Hannah’s dedication of her miracle:
  • “For this child I prayed… as long as he lives, he shall be lent to the Lord.” – Hannah (30:54)
• Hannah’s prayer of praise:
  • “My heart exalts in the Lord. My horn is exalted in the Lord… There is none holy like the Lord. There is no rock like our God.” – Hannah (31:46)

---

Timestamps of Important Segments

• 06:06 – Peninnah taunts Hannah about her childlessness
• 08:23 – Elkana attempts to comfort Hannah
• 09:24 – Elkana affirms hope in God
• 13:02 – Peninnah’s comments during the journey
• 18:30 – Elkana gives Hannah a double portion
• 22:31 – Hannah’s desperate prayer at the tabernacle
• 23:48 – Eli rebukes Hannah, thinking she’s drunk
• 25:29 – Eli blesses Hannah, asking God to grant her request
• 27:27 – Hannah names Samuel, acknowledging answered prayer
• 28:28 – Hannah commits to dedicating Samuel to the Lord
• 30:54 – Hannah presents Samuel to Eli; fulfills her vow
• 31:46 – Hannah’s public song of praise

---

Takeaways & Relevance

• Faith in Brokenness: The episode powerfully depicts how deep suffering can catalyze the most honest and transformative prayers.
• Hope in Waiting: Hannah’s persistence in hope, even when circumstances are unchanged, is a reminder of faith’s endurance.
• Fulfillment & Sacrifice: Receiving her heart’s desire, Hannah’s willingness to dedicate her son back to God demonstrates selfless trust and devotion.
• God Sees and Remembers: The story reassures listeners that God is attentive to the cries of the broken-hearted and faithful to answer in His time.

---

Conclusion

“The Prayers of Hannah” episode is a moving retelling of a timeless biblical story that interweaves themes of grief, hope, prayer, and faithfulness. Through vivid narration and authentic dialogue, listeners are invited to reflect on the struggles of waiting, the power of honest prayer, and the transformative grace that comes when God remembers our deepest longings.

---

Transcript

[Podcast Host]

This is an Iheart podcast. Guaranteed human

[Lowe's Advertiser]

spring into deals with stay green premium 2 cubic foot mulch 5 bags for $10 plus stay fresh with up to 35% off select major appliances and save an additional $100 on select laundry pairs. Our best lineup is here at Lowe's. Lowe's. We help you save valid through 56 mulch offer excludes Alaska and Hawaii. See lowe's.com for more details.

[Jana Kramer]

Visit your nearby lowes

[Narrator]

previously on the Chosen People.

[Peninnah]

Boaz is a close relative of my late husband. He is one of our kinsmen, redeemers.

[Hannah]

So when you say that Boaz has shown me favor, what you mean to say is you think you would marry someone like me. I'm not an Israelite woman. I did not grow up under your laws.

[Peninnah]

Perhaps, my daughter, perhaps you have sacrificed so much to stay by my side. Shouldn't I find rest for you so that you will be taken care of?

[Hannah]

I made a pledge. I will never turn my back on you or our God.

[Elkana]

The Lord be with you.

[Hannah]

All the Lord bless you.

[Elkana]

Tonight we celebrate the abundance of his provision. Well done, everyone. Well done.

[Hannah]

I've come to ask you to spread the wing of your garment over me, for you are a family Redeemer.

[Elkana]

May the Lord bless you, my daughter. I'm amazed at your faithfulness. I'll go and find the other Redeemer. If he wants to redeem you, then that is good. But if he doesn't want to redeem you, as the Lord lives, I will. I will gladly redeem you.

[Hannah]

You are my family's kinsman Redeemer. But I have also come to admire you as a man of valor and integrity.

[Narrator]

Ruth believed that Boaz would not rest until they had an answer. Their patience was finally rewarded when they heard hurried footsteps on the path to their stone farmhouse in the late afternoon. She reached the door and opened it slowly.

[Elkana]

I will love you as my own soul, honor you as my partner, and protect you as my bride.

[Jana Kramer]

This is Jana Kramer from Wind down with Jana Kramer. Every Mother's Day I tell myself I'm going to be more thoughtful than flowers, because flowers are beautiful. But they don't last in my house. Everyone always ends up in the kitchen. Friends, family, the kids. And I love having things around that spark conversation and feel special. That's why I love the Lenox Spice Village and your mom will too. It's a set of 24 hand painted little houses that are actually spice jars and I swear people notice it the second they walk in. It's charming. It's nostalgic, and it somehow makes even everyday cooking feel a little more fun. And here's the best part. It actually gets used every day. Whether you're starting the full set or helping her complete one she's loved for years, there's a whole world of Spice Village to explore this Mother's Day. Give her something she'll treasure long after the card is put away. Trust me, once you see it, you'll want one too. Find the full [e-mail] SpiceVillage Garnier is

[Podcast Host]

proudly partnering with the National park foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. Garnier's support of the National Park Foundation Service Corps program is enabling young adults and veterans to help care for and enhance the national parks that we all love. The National park foundation and Garnier are proud to support these individuals as they explore future careers, gain practical field skills, develop confidence as leaders, and help address priority projects across our national parks. Together, Garnier and the National park foundation are committed to a shared vision of preserving and protecting our most treasured places for future generations. Want to lend a hand? Explore Garnier's partnership with the National park foundation and learn how you can help support our national parks@garnier USA.com NPF support

[Public Investing Advertiser]

for the show comes from Public the investing platform for those who take it seriously. On public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index. With AI. It all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year, you can literally type any prompt and put the AI to work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like ETFs with infinite possibilities, completely customizable and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncanny capped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors llc SEC Registered Advisor Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not an investment recommendation or advice. Complete disclosures available at public.com disclosures

[Elkana]

the

[Narrator]

dusty streets of Ramah glowed with a soft light that danced across the swaying grass. Birds perched in the sycamore trees that lined the Fields filled the dawn air with tranquil songs, but the melody did little to lift the heaviness that weighed upon Hannah's weary heart. She clung to her knees as she knelt over the fire, stirring a large pot of lentils. Each turn of the spoon was a subtle reminder of whose bellies would be filled by the meal. From inside, the voices of Penina and her children carried through the open door. Penina's proud face emerged to greet Hannah.

[Peninnah]

Oh, from the smell your cooking has gotten better. But it seems there are still no little ones in your house to enjoy it, Hannah. Perhaps it isn't your season. Maybe the Lord will remember you next year, if he chooses to remember you at all.

[Narrator]

Hannah did her best to ignore the comment, though it sliced through her heart with a coldness that matched the morning chill. The children's innocent laughter was a stark contrast to their mother's cutting remarks. Hannah's shoulders tensed around her neck. Subconsciously in defense. Years of torment had conditioned the frail wife.

[Peninnah]

You know I only joke, my dear.

[Narrator]

Penina let out a laugh that feigned innocence as she turned on her heels back into her bountiful home. Elkana emerged through the threshold.

[Elkana]

Good evening, Penina. I'm sorry to interrupt, but I believe one of the boys has found himself in some trouble.

[Narrator]

Peninnah ran her hand along Elkana's shoulder and gave Hannah one last sly glance before returning back to the home. Elkana sauntered gingerly towards Hannah, whose shoulders had already begun to ease their way down to her sides. She felt at peace in Elkana's presence, yet her eyes remained steadfast on the embers and flame dancing before her. Perhaps it was shame or a sense of guilt that something within her made her feel as though she had failed Elkana as a wife in her barrenness. Elkana strode softly to Hannah's side. He knelt beside her with a gentle gaze. Her eyes were still unable to meet his. Elkana could see the shimmer of tears welling up in Hannah's eyes. Despite her best efforts to remain strong, Hannah had resolved to show Elkana she was resilient. If nothing else. Her husband placed his rugged hand on her temple. At his loving touch, Hannah could no longer fight her sorrow. Silent sobs sent tears streaming down her face. My Hannah. His raspy voice trailed off as he considered his next words.

[Elkana]

I know your pain at your barrenness, but please don't cry. Am I not better to you than 10 sons?

[Narrator]

Hannah peered sideways at her husband and forced a smile. She knew he meant well, but his consolation stung only slightly less than Peninnah's coarse jests. She pushed through her inner turmoil and affirmed herself of Elkana's genuine care for her.

[Hannah]

You are kind, my husband, but I have found that a heart without hope cannot find the strength to rejoice.

[Narrator]

Elkana shifted in the dirt and brought his hand softly down to her cheek. He lifted his eyes to the colorful skies and directed Hannah's eyes upwards for the first time that day.

[Elkana]

But you have forgotten something.

[Narrator]

Hannah turned her face to Elkana's, desperately looking for understanding. Elkana's smile was pursued with empathy.

[Elkana]

As long as the Lord is watching over us, there will always be a reason to hope, and that alone will allow even the weakest of hearts to rejoice. In fact, all my years on this earth have only proven to me that it is in our most broken moments that our God provides profound healing. Perhaps I may not be better than 10 sons, but I assure you that he is.

[Narrator]

Hannah's tears began to flow once more. She was stricken with the tension between her deep hurt and Elkana's encouragement. She was grieved to be without children. She felt guilty that her grief created distance between her and her husband. She felt bitter towards Peninnah for burying her husband's children and rubbing it in her face. Then she felt shame for feeling bitter. She was lost in a cycle of self loathing and isolation. Elkana pressed down on his walking stick and rose to his feet.

[Elkana]

We have a long journey ahead of us to Shiloh. It's best that I go and finish preparations inside.

[Narrator]

The next morning, the household arose early. Elkana and his wives were busily wrapping up food and clothes into sacks. Outside, the loaded donkeys brayed in anticipation of the journey ahead. Hannah hoisted her bag over her shoulder, nearly dropping it as several of Penina's children darted past, laughing and playing. Penina followed closely behind. She gave a dramatic sigh as she handed her bag to her eldest son and made sure to appear exhausted as she caught Hannah's eyes.

[Peninnah]

A mother's hands are always full.

[Narrator]

With a successful gleam in her eye, Penina continued out the door after her children. Hannah watched placidly, fighting off the temptation to spiral into a pit of sadness. She wanted to find delight in the sounds of playful children, knowing she should praise God for giving life. She reflected on his provision as she looked around their quaint home, but was only met with reminders that it would never be filled with her own growing family. As they prepared to make sacrifices at the altars of Shiloh, she asked the Lord for forgiveness for her troubled heart and took meager steps out to join the others. The family formed a caravan for their journey, gently winding through the sloping landscape. Dust cascaded into the air as braying donkeys rhythmically clocked alongside the group. Nature was still waking in the early morning hours. Birds joined in song with Peninnah's children as they skipped and hummed along merrily. Despite their laughter, Hannah solemnly strode in silence. Her eyes were fixated on the hem of her garment, flowing delicately with each step. Elkana led the way a few yards ahead, holding the reins of a donkey upon which Peninnah rode. Hannah could hear Penina's voice intermingled with laughter, though she couldn't quite make out the words. Hannah pulled her scarf around her ears in a vain attempt to drown out the draw noise. Her heart sank as Penina raised her voice louder.

[Peninnah]

The little one has been so curious lately. Just yesterday we were talking about the many blessings of our God, and he asked why the Lord does not give gifts to everyone in the same way. What a peculiar question, don't you think?

[Narrator]

Hannah instinctively laid her open hand gently across her stomach. Her eyes shut. And then a small tear rolled down her cheek and landed like a seed on the earth. Elkana turned his shoulder back in time to see Hannah draw her shawl around her face. He could sense her heartache in his love for her, he shared in the pain. He called to Peninnah's eldest son and passed off the leather straps. He slowed his pace and walked beside Hannah, who had already regathered her companions composure, both out of necessity and ritual.

[Elkana]

How are you feeling today, my Hannah?

[Narrator]

Elkana waited for a response he knew would never come.

[Elkana]

Perhaps that is the wrong question. I'm not sure there's a right one. But please know my love for you runs deeper than the sea and spans all of the heavens above.

[Narrator]

As always, Elkana's genuine words of affection warmed her heart, but they only dulled the pain. Barrenness had left an emptiness that seemed insurmountable. Elkana ran his hand down Hannah's arm and went to grasp her hand. But without thinking, Hannah drew her hand slightly away, an instinct of her loneliness and shame. Elkana sighed and gave her arm a tender squeeze. He quickened his pace and shuffled his way back to the front of the group. It wasn't long before Hannah heard the shrill laughter of Penina once more. Hours passed as the sun lingered high in the sky. Wisps of cloud danced across the blue expanse with the help of a merciful wind that cooled the tired travelers. Shiloh sat atop the horizon, nothing more than a speck. But the mere sight of their resting place was enough to rejuvenate the group for the last few miles. Of course, Penina knew nothing of weariness. She continued to lazily call out to her children and Elkana whenever she had a need. Hannah, on the other hand, had pushed aside any feelings of weariness in her hopes to remove all feelings from within her. In her mind, no emotion was better than the endless bitterness she would otherwise endure. By the time the group reached the city, the sun hung low in the sky. It cast golden rays in every direction, bouncing over the tabernacle that sat at the north end of the city. Thousands of pilgrims lined the streets and crowded into houses and tents. Each one was focused diligently on preparing their sacrifices and offerings for worship. The warm smell of roasting meats intermingled with the fragrance of burning incense. The entire city was full of life. Sounds bounced all around. But for Hannah, everything continued to feel empty, hollow, silent. She promptly began busying her hands as she unstrapped packs from one of the donkeys. Peninnah slid off hers with a flick of the wrist. She sent her sons to gather all of their belongings. They made light work of unloading and setting up camp. At the center of their tents, Elkana sat near a growing fire. He promptly began preparing the family's sacrifices. Peninnah and her children gathered around the fire, filling the camp with shouts and laughter. Hannah sat off in the distance. She watched as the setting sun turned the sky above the nearby tabernacle a royal purple. Her eyes lingered on the holy dwelling year after year. The sight of it always stirred a mixture of hope and grief within her. She longed desperately for each year to be different, but repeated disappointment had taught her to loosen her grip on the hope of ever seeing. Her deepest desire fulfilled, Elkana shouted for everyone to gather around. The time had come. Elkana began distributing portions of the sacrificial meal for the family to present offerings. He gave generous servings to Penina and her children, ensuring each child received their allotted share.

[Peninnah]

You are always so gracious to us, my Elkanah, providing for me and our children so that we might make sacrifices to Adonai. What more could a wife need from her husband?

[Narrator]

Hannah could feel Peninnah's eyes linger on her. But to her surprise, Elkana gave no reply. Instead, he slowly turned to Hannah. He presented her with a portion of the offering without looking up. Hannah began to thank Elkana, but stopped abruptly as her eyes landed on the tray set before her.

[Hannah]

Elkanah is this not.

[Elkana]

Yes, a double portion for you, Hannah, for my love for you is great, even greater than any earthly sorrow.

[Jana Kramer]

This is Jana Kramer from Wind down with Jana Kramer. Every Mother's Day I tell myself I'm going to be more thoughtful than flowers, because flowers are beautiful, but they don't last in my house. Everyone always ends up in the kitchen. Friends, family, the kids, and I love having things around that spark conversation and feel special. That's why I love the Lenox Spice Village and your mom will too. It's a set of 24 hand painted little houses that are actually spice jars and I swear people notice it. The they walk in. It's charming, it's nostalgic, and it somehow makes even everyday cooking feel a little more fun. And here's the best part. It actually gets used every day. Whether you're starting the full set or helping her complete one she's loved for years, there's a whole world of Spice Village to explore this Mother's Day. Give her something she'll treasure long after the card is put away. Trust me, once you see it, you'll want one too. Find the full [e-mail] Spice Village Garnier

[Podcast Host]

is proudly partnering with the National park foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. Garnier's support of the National Park Foundation's Service Corps program is enabling young adults and veterans to help care for and enhance the national parks that we all love. The National park foundation and Garnier are proud to support these individuals as they explore future careers, gain practical field skills, develop confidence as leaders, and help address priority projects across our national Together, Garnier and the National park foundation are committed to a shared vision of preserving and protecting our most treasured places for future generations. Want to lend a hand? Explore Garnier's partnership with the National park foundation and learn how you can help support our national [e-mail] NPF support for

[Public Investing Advertiser]

the show comes from Public, the investing platform for those who take it seriously. On public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index. With AI it all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year. You can literally type any prompt and put the AI to work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like ETFs, with infinite possibilities. Complete, completely customizable, and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors, llc. SEC Registered Advisor Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not an investment recommendation or advice. Complete disclosures available at public.com disclosures Hannah's

[Narrator]

lip quivered, though not for the reasons Elkana had assumed. Hannah knew her husband meant well. She accepted the gesture with a grateful heart, but the double portion only served as a reminder of her barrenness. Peninnah's eyes were wide but quickly drew her attention to her children, loudly discussing the generous portions they had each received. Elkana shifted closer to Hannah. He kissed her on the forehead before she slowly slipped away from the group. It wasn't long before Hannah found herself before the opening of the tabernacle. She gazed upon its entryway. Within its meticulously woven walls was the pure and beautiful presence of God Most High, dwelling with his people. Hannah fell to her knees on the rocky ground. She let out a whimper that was barely audible as she searched for words. Her voice trembled as she finally spoke.

[Hannah]

God, Most High, Lord of Hosts, if you will indeed look upon the affliction of your servant and remember me, she

[Narrator]

sobbed as she begged for the Lord's remembrance yet again.

[Hannah]

If you will give your servant a son, then I will give him to you all the days of his life. No razor shall ever touch his head. He'll be holy and given to you. It will be yours. Just please, Lord,

[Elkana]

please,

[Hannah]

please,

[Narrator]

Hannah continued. In her wrestling with God, her lips mouthed a silent but desperate plea. She laid her face into the dirt. Unbeknownst to Hannah, a man watched her intently from a few yards away. He was dressed in a blue robe that got lost in the purple horizon. He furrowed his brow as he watched the hysterical woman. He bent his ear to try and catch any of the woman's words, but her unintentional, intelligible babble told him all he needed to know.

[Eli]

This woman is a drunken mess. The things I have to put up with, my Lord. Is this the lofty tasks you have laid up for your priest to scrape trunks off the floor?

[Narrator]

Eli approached Hannah with a judgmental tone. How long will you grow on?

[Eli]

Come now, put your wine away from you. Especially before the tabernacle have some decency.

[Narrator]

Eli's voice was rough and firm. His command was deliberate and sure. This was enough to startle Hannah from her prayers. She looked up with her muddied face. Her eyes were a window for the anguish that raged within. She took a slow, steady breath.

[Hannah]

No, my lord, please. It's not what it seems.

[Narrator]

Eli's face remained stern, preparing himself for an excuse.

[Hannah]

I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I can assure you I have not been partaking of any wine, nor has any strong drink crossed my lips. All that has been poured out tonight is my skin. I beg you, do not regard your servant as a worthless woman and drunkard. I have only spoken from my abundant grief and heartache.

[Narrator]

Eli's face softened. In his old age, he had learned to quickly make amends for any wrongdoing. He now stood closer to Hannah and knelt by her side. He studied her tear strewn face.

[Eli]

Yes, I see. May it please the Lord that you go in peace and may the God of Israel grant you your petition that you have made to him on this day.

[Narrator]

Hannah's heart swelled with both uncertainty and hope. She rose to her feet and wiped her face with her shawl. She bowed her head before Eli.

[Hannah]

Let your servant find favor.

[Narrator]

In the sadness seemed to fade like the dawn mist meeting the sunrise. In its place, Hannah found joy for the first time in years. The next morning, the family rose early to worship the Lord before starting their return trip. The journey back to Ramah was quiet. Hannah had found her usual place in the processions, but nothing felt the same to her. She repeated Eli's words the entire trip back, taking in each one like a precious treasure. Once home, the rhythms of life quickly set back in. Only now what once pained Hannah fanned the flames of her renewed spirit. Children's laughter fueled her with hope to one day hear the joyful shouts of her own as she prepared meals for the family. She could only hold onto the dream of feeding her own offspring, and the fond embrace of Elkana assured her of his endless love for her. As life steadily rolled along, Hannah clung to Eli's blessing, believing that God was working. And in the coming months he answered Hannah's prayer. Hannah conceived as the child grew in her womb. Her faith grew in her heart. When it was time to welcome the child into the world, Hannah had already chosen a name.

[Hannah]

I shall call him Samuel, for I have asked for him from the Lord.

[Narrator]

Hannah marveled at her son. The years of brokenness became a distant memory as she watched her son grow. Newborn cries turned into the pitter patter of little footsteps, gentle coos turned into playful laughter as Samuel crawled through the house. And the words of Peninnah that once pierced Hannah's heart no longer had power over her. She felt free and fulfilled, satisfied in the grace of the Lord. When it came time for the family to return to Shiloh, Hannah Hannah remained with Samuel. Once weaned, she would make the journey with her son.

[Elkana]

Are you sure about this, Hannah? I know the joy you found in our son. You waited for so long.

[Narrator]

Hannah smiled, her eyes testifying to her confidence in the decision.

[Hannah]

The Lord remembered me, so I too shall remember. Once Samuel is weaned, I shall bring him to appear before the Lord. There he shall remain forever.

[Narrator]

Elkana dared not disagree. He admired Hannah's devotion and trusted in God's sovereign will for the boy. Elkanah and the others left the next morning at the first light of day. Hannah enjoyed the quiet moments with Samuel, Sam, savoring them as the last time together in their home. Over the coming weeks, she prayed for Samuel and herself. She asked the Lord to grant them both peace in the face of the unknown life ahead of them. Hannah knew the goodbye would come soon. Perhaps not a goodbye to Samuel forever, but a goodbye to the normal life that most mothers envision with their children. With her heart steadfast on the Lord, she and Samuel began the journey to Shiloh. When they arrived, Hannah found Elkanah. He greeted her warmly, holding onto her and his son longer than usual. Together, they made their sacrifices before making their way to the tabernacle in search of Eli. Hannah sauntered leisurely down the road, taking every last second she could. But no amount of time would have felt like enough for her. Standing before the tabernacle, she heard a voice from behind her.

[Eli]

Shalom. Welcome to Shiloh. We are pleased to have you and your family.

[Narrator]

Hannah closed her eyes. The voice was unmistakable. She had replayed it over and over in her head for years. She wrapped her arms around Samuel tighter. She turned slowly as Samuel's delicate fingers interlocked with hers.

[Hannah]

Do you remember who I am?

[Eli]

We host many pilgrims this time of year, my dear.

[Hannah]

I'm the woman who stood here in your presence years ago, praying before the Lord. You thought I was drunk?

[Eli]

Oh, yes.

[Hannah]

Yes.

[Eli]

You were praying for a child.

[Narrator]

Hannah stepped aside and revealed Samuel, now weaned and able to walk, clinging on to his mother's garment.

[Hannah]

His name is Samuel. For this child I prayed, and through your blessing I held on to hope. And now I stand here testifying that the Lord has granted me my petition. Therefore I also have lent him him to the Lord, and as long as he lives, he shall be lent to the Lord.

[Narrator]

Eli's eyes sparkled in amazement. He gingerly took the boy into his arms. Years of serving the Lord had shown Eli countless examples of God's faithfulness, but none such as this. As Samuel took Eli's hand, Hannah knelt before the tabernacle. She turned her eyes towards the heavens and raised a prayer of thanksgiving for everyone to hear.

[Hannah]

My heart exalts in the Lord. My horn is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies because I rejoice in your salvation. There is none holy like the Lord. There is none besides you. There is no no rock like our God.

[Narrator]

Her voice carried over the dull hum of pilgrims. Each word was like the beating of a heart, the heartbeat of new life not only for Hannah and Samuel, but also for Israel. This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

[Lowe's Advertiser]

I'm U.S. transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The sound of a Seatbelt it's one of the most important sounds in our car. It means everyone is ready and everyone is safe. The more our kids see us put on our seats seatbelts, the more natural it is for them to put theirs on too. Make it a priority. Buckle up every time. Hear the sound. Make it a habit Paid for by NHTSA

[Dietz and Watson Advertiser]

hey, did you know Dietzen Watson has been family owned for over 85 years? To us, that means it's more than a business. It's personal. We make our premium meats and cheeses the right way, even if it's slower or inconvenient or hard. Because that's how you get the highest quality. If it's not good enough for our family, it's not good enough for yours. And while others cut corners, we keep raising the bar. So if you see the Dietz and Watson name, you'll know every slice has my family's seal of approval. Dietz and Watson. It's a family thing since 1939. I tell myself it's not about comparing. But then I start wondering, what can they lift? Are they adding more weight to their barbell than I am? And suddenly I'm not training. Then I realize my journey is not theirs. I've earned every step. So I smile. My smile is the shape resilience takes to keep me moving, to put more smiles out into the world. Colgate has supported female athletes for over 50 years with the Colgate Women's Games, the nation's longest running indoor track and field series for girls and women. Colgate, your smile is your strength.

[Public Investing Advertiser]

You ever wonder how far an EV can take you on one charge? Well, most people drive about 40 miles a day, which means you can do all daily stuff no problem. Go to work, grab the kids at school, get the groceries and still have enough charge to visit your in laws in the next county.

[Eli]

But they don't need to know that.

[Public Investing Advertiser]

And the best part? You won't have to buy gas at all. The way forward is electric. Explore EVs that fit your life at electricforall.org

[Reynolds Kitchens Advertiser]

Ever wonder how to make hosting look effortless? Here's a secret when prepping for cooking and baking, get ahead of the mess with new Reynolds Kitchens Countertop prep paper. Just lightly wet the counter so the paper grips. Lay it down and drips and spills stay on the paper, not on your counter. Cleanup is as simple as lifting it away to reveal clean counters. Effortless it is. Thanks to Reynolds Kitchens Countertop Prep paper. Wet it, set it, prep it. Done. Available in the Reynolds Wrap aisle at Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Costco.

[Podcast Host]

This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.