Hannah and the Rule That Prayer Demands a Heavy Head

Yalkut Shimoni on Nach 78:2

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

"And she was bitter of soul" (1 Samuel 1:10). Our Rabbis taught: One stands to pray only out of gravity of head [a settled, sober frame of mind]. From where do we know these words? Rabbi Elazar said: For Scripture states, "And she was bitter of soul, and she prayed" (1 Samuel 1:10). But from what is this proven? Perhaps Hannah is different, for her heart was exceedingly bitter. Rather, Rabbi Yose bar Hanina said: From here — "But as for me, through Your abundant kindness I will enter Your house; I will bow toward Your holy sanctuary in the fear of You" (Psalms 5:8). From what is this proven? Perhaps David is different, for he afflicted himself greatly in seeking mercy. Rather, Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi said: From here — "Bow down to the LORD in the beauty of holiness" (Psalms 29:2). Do not read "in the beauty [hadrat] of holiness" but "in the trembling [ḥerdat] of holiness." From what is this proven? Perhaps, I might say to you, it really means actual beauty, as in the case of Rav Yehuda, who would adorn himself and then pray. Rather, Rav Nahman bar Yitzhak said: From here — "Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling" (Psalms 2:11). What is "and rejoice with trembling"? Rabbi Adda bar Ahava said in the name of Rav: In the place of rejoicing, there shall be trembling.

Themes

PrayerWomenDivine Justice

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