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Hannah

Hannah in the Bible — wife of Elkanah (1SA 1:2), mother of Samuel (1SA 1:20). Referenced in 3 scripture passages.

Name meaning: gracious; merciful; he that gives

Profile

Gender
female
Scripture References
3 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
2 connections

Biography

The mother of Samuel, Hannah suffered the pain of barrenness and provocation from her husband's other wife. In deep anguish, she prayed fervently at the tabernacle, vowing to dedicate her son to God's service if He would grant her a child. God answered her prayer, and she faithfully fulfilled her vow, bringing young Samuel to serve under Eli. She then had five more children.

Significance

Hannah's prayer demonstrates persevering faith and sacrificial dedication. Her song of praise prefigures Mary's Magnificat and shows God's concern for the humble and afflicted.

Key Events

Provoked by Peninnah for barrenness(1 Samuel 1:6-7)
Prayed desperately for a son(1 Samuel 1:10-11)
Eli blessed her prayer(1 Samuel 1:17)
Birth of Samuel(1 Samuel 1:20)
Dedicated Samuel to the Lord(1 Samuel 1:24-28)
Prayed her song of thanksgiving(1 Samuel 2:1-10)

Names & Labels (1)

Hannahproper name
Hebrew
חַנָּה
Transliteration
chanah
Meaning
favor
Greek
Αννα
Reference
1SA 1:2
Strong's
H2584

Family & Relationships (2)

wife

Elkanah(1SA 1:2)

mother

Samuel(1SA 1:20)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Hannah in the Bible?

Hannah is described in the Bible as wife of Elkanah (1SA 1:2), mother of Samuel (1SA 1:20).

What does the name Hannah mean?

The name Hannah means “gracious; merciful; he that gives” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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