1 Samuel 1:14 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 1:14 mean?

1 Samuel 1:14 describes Eli, the priest, accusing Hannah of being drunk and telling her to stop drinking wine. Eli sees Hannah’s unusual behavior in the temple and assumes she is intoxicated, not realizing she is praying in deep distress.

Eli is speaking to Hannah as she silently prays in the tabernacle, moving her lips but making no sound. Mistaking her silent, emotional prayer for drunkenness, Eli rebukes her and tells her to put away her wine. This moment sets up the misunderstanding that will soon be cleared when Hannah explains her true situation.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 1:14

• "drunken" — שָׁכַר (shakar): This word often means to be drunk or intoxicated with alcohol. Eli’s use of it shows he interprets Hannah’s actions as those of someone under the influence, highlighting how unusual her silent prayer appears.
• "away" — סוּר (sur): This word means to turn aside or remove. Eli is not just telling Hannah to stop drinking but to separate herself from the wine entirely, a strong rebuke.
• "wine" — יַיִן (yayin): This is the common Hebrew word for wine. Eli specifically mentions wine, which was a typical alcoholic drink, reinforcing his assumption about Hannah’s state.

Why 1 Samuel 1:14 matters

• This verse shows how easily outward appearances can be misunderstood, especially in spiritual settings, and sets the stage for Hannah’s heartfelt explanation.
• Eli’s reaction highlights the rarity of someone praying silently and passionately in this way at the time, making Hannah’s approach stand out.
• The misunderstanding in this verse draws attention to Hannah’s deep sorrow and earnest prayer, which are central to the story of Samuel’s birth.