1 Samuel 2:1
And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.
1 Samuel 2:1 · King James Version
Meaning
When Hannah prayed and said, "My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation," she was expressing her gratitude and joy for the blessings she had received from God. Her heart swelling with happiness, she acknowledged God as the source of her strength and victory over her enemies. The term "horn" in biblical context signifies power and strength, so when she says her horn is exalted in the Lord, she is declaring that her power and strength come from God. By proclaiming that her mouth is enlarged over her enemies, she is declaring her confidence in God's protection and deliverance. In essence, this verse conveys the profound sense of victory and triumph that comes from placing one's trust and faith in the Lord. Hannah's prayer teaches us the importance of recognizing and praising God for His role in our lives, especially in times of trouble and adversity.
Theological Overview
In this passage from the book of 1 Samuel, we see Hannah expressing her gratitude and joy to the Lord through prayer. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights Hannah's deep sense of thanksgiving and praise to God for His salvation. The phrase "mine horn is exalted in the LORD" can be understood as Hannah acknowledging God's power and strength that has elevated her above her enemies. This could also be interpreted as a symbol of victory and triumph over her adversaries, as 'horn' is often used in the Bible to signify strength and power. Additionally, the phrase "my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies" can be seen as Hannah boasting in the Lord's deliverance and protection against those who sought to harm her. Overall, this verse illustrates Hannah's unwavering faith in God and her belief in His ability to provide salvation and victory in every situation.
1 Samuel 2:1 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Hannah prayed, and said: My heart exulteth in Jehovah; My horn is exalted in Jehovah; My mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; Because I rejoice in thy salvation.
World English Bible
Hannah prayed, and said: “My heart exults in Yahweh! My horn is exalted in Yahweh. My mouth is enlarged over my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.
Douay-Rheims
My heart hath rejoiced in the Lord, and my horn is exalted in my God: my mouth is enlarged over my enemies: because I have joyed in thy salvation.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Hannah prayed, and said, Mine heart reioyceth in the Lord, mine horne is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged ouer mine enemies, because I reioyce in thy saluation.