1 Samuel 2:1-36

Hannah's Song of Thanksgiving. The Sin of Eli's Sons

1-10. The Song of Hannah.

This beautiful poem has been well called the 'Magnificat of the Old Testament.' The song of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:46) is clearly modelled on it very closely. In each case there is the rejoicing over the exaltation of the poor and despised and the humiliation of the rich. But there is a world of difference between Mary's quiet and restrained gratitude and calm confidence in God's mercy, on the one hand, and the exultant and almost fierce triumph of this song. 1 Samuel 2:5 has doubtless led to the attribution of the song to Hannah; but in its general tone it seems more suitable to some public person, and 1 Samuel 2:10 (unless it be an interpolation) suggests a later date in Israel's history. Compare the expressions of national triumph in the songs of Moses (Exodus 15:1) and Deborah (Judges 5).