Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

mother of his children a portion for herself and for each of her sons
and daughters. He gave Hannah a double portion to show that his
affection for her was the same as if she had had a son. Then the
second wife, fired with jealousy, claimed first place as one that God
had highly favored, and she taunted Hannah about her childless
condition.
This happened year after year until Hannah could no longer
bear it. She wept uncontrollably and left the feast. Her husband tried
to comfort her, but without success. "Why do you weep? Why do
you not eat? And why is your heart grieved? Am not I better to you
than ten sons?"
Hannah did not accuse anyone. She went to God with the
burden she could not share with any earthly friend. She pleaded
earnestly that He would grant her the gift of a son to train for Him,
and she made a vow that if her request were granted she would
dedicate her child to God from his birth.
Hannah came near the entrance of the tabernacle and in the
distress of her spirit "prayed ... and wept in anguish." In those evil
times, such scenes of worship were rare. Eli the high priest,
watching Hannah, supposed that she was overcome with wine.
Thinking he should give her a well-deserved scolding, he said
sternly, "How long will you be drunk? Put your wine away from
you!"
Startled and hurt, Hannah answered gently, "No, my lord, I am
513