Our Sages learn many of laws pertaining to prayer from one person – Hannah. What was so special about her way of praying that made them derive the laws from her? Is there anything else we can learn from her prayers, above and beyond the practical-halakhic aspects?
Hannah is the wife of Elkana. For many years she has been unable to bear a child and therefore her husband marries a second woman, Penina, who provides him with offspring. Over time, tension arises between these two women, especially when they go to the Mishkan during the Festivals. Penina is surrounded by her children, whereas Hannah stands by herself.
This is an unbearable situation for Hannah and she prays to God. The prophet describes her bitter state as she prays and cries to God. She even vows that if her prayer is accepted and she is granted a son, she will dedicate him to God to become a Nazirite. The prophet describes further that Hannah prayed for a long time but only her lips moved and no sound came forth from her mouth.
Upon observing her, Eli assumes that she is drunk, since the text says that she behaved thus after having eaten and drunk. However, Hannah denies this and explains to Eli that her prayer sprang from the depths of her heart and therefore it seemed to an observer that she was drunk.
Tractate Brachot 31b lists some of the laws of prayer that our Sages learnt from Hannah. Why was her prayer singled out as the source of these halakhot?
There are two main features that we can apply to our own prayers: Firstly, her prayer comes from her innermost self. It is said with utmost trust in God who has the power to help her and therefore she is not embarrassed to make great demands of Him. Prayer that makes demands is just the type of prayer that demonstrates true willingness and faith. Secondly, she prays for a son – not out of her own personal interest – but for the good of her people. She prays for a son who will save the children of Israel and sanctify God's Name. Her prayer is for the sake of God and therefore it is much more powerful than an individual who prays for his own sake.