1 Samuel 1:17 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 1:17 mean?

1 Samuel 1:17 records Eli, the priest, telling Hannah to go in peace and expressing his hope that the God of Israel will grant her the request she has made. Eli is responding to Hannah’s heartfelt prayer for a child, offering her reassurance and a blessing.

In this scene, Eli speaks directly to Hannah after realizing her deep distress and earnest prayer in the temple. His words, “Go in peace,” are a traditional way of wishing well-being and calm, while his mention of “the God of Israel” highlights the faith shared by both Eli and Hannah. Eli’s statement marks a turning point, shifting from misunderstanding Hannah’s actions to supporting her hope.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 1:17

• שָׁלוֹם (shalom, H7965): This word, translated “peace,” often means much more than just the absence of conflict. It carries the sense of wholeness, well-being, and completeness, so Eli is wishing Hannah a deep sense of well-being as she leaves.
• שְׁאֵלָה (she’elah, H7596) and שָׁאַל (sha’al, H7592): These related words are used for “petition” and “asked.” The repetition emphasizes Hannah’s specific request and her act of earnestly seeking something from God, highlighting the personal nature of her prayer.
• נָתַן (natan, H5414): Translated “grant,” this word means to give or bestow. Eli’s hope is that God will actively respond to Hannah’s plea, not just listen but actually give her what she asked for.

Why 1 Samuel 1:17 matters

• This verse clears up Eli’s earlier misunderstanding—he first thought Hannah was drunk, but now he recognizes her genuine sorrow and faith.
• Eli’s blessing and words of peace give Hannah comfort and hope, showing the importance of encouragement from spiritual leaders.
• The verse connects Hannah’s private prayer to God’s public answer, setting up the fulfillment of her request in the following story and highlighting God’s attentiveness to heartfelt prayer.