1 Samuel 1:19
And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her.
1 Samuel 1:19 · King James Version
Meaning
After an emotional prayer to the Lord for a child, Hannah and Elkanah rose up early in the morning to worship before the Lord. This act of devotion demonstrates their faith and commitment to God. The couple then returned to their home in Ramah, where Elkanah knew Hannah his wife. The phrase "knew" here signifies a deep intimate connection between the two, highlighting the closeness of their relationship. The verse concludes with a powerful statement that the Lord remembered Hannah. This emphasizes God's faithfulness and his ability to hear and answer prayers. Despite Hannah's previous struggles with infertility, the Lord's remembrance of her signals a turning point in her life, setting the stage for the miraculous birth of her son Samuel.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 1 Samuel 1:19, we see a significant shift in Hannah's life as the Lord remembers her and opens her womb. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the faithfulness of God in responding to His people's prayers and fulfilling His promises. The act of worship that Hannah and Elkanah engage in before the Lord highlights the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance in times of need. The word "remembered" holds deep theological significance, indicating that God is aware of His people's struggles and intervenes on their behalf at the appointed time. This act of remembrance also foreshadows the miraculous birth of Samuel, who would play a crucial role in Israel's history as a prophet and judge. Through this verse, we are reminded of God's faithfulness, His ability to turn situations around, and His sovereignty over all aspects of our lives.
1 Samuel 1:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before Jehovah, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and Jehovah remembered her.
World English Bible
They rose up in the morning early, and worshiped before Yahweh, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and Yahweh remembered her.
Douay-Rheims
And they rose in the morning, and worshipped before the Lord: and they returned, and came into their house at Ramatha. And Elcana knew Anna his wife: And the Lord remembered her.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then they rose vp early, and worshipped before the Lord, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah. Nowe Elkanah knewe Hannah his wife, and the Lord remembred her.