THE MOTHERS OF THE BIBLE.

HANNAH.


Imagination can picture no more animating scenes than those which were
presented to the beholder at the seasons of the year when Judea poured
forth her inhabitants in crowds to attend the solemn festivals appointed
by Jehovah, and observed with punctilious exactness by the people. Our
present study leads us to contemplate one of these scenes.

From some remote town on the borders of Gentile territory the onward
movement commences. A few families having finished all their
preparations, close the door of their simple home, and with glowing
faces and hopeful steps begin their march. They are soon joined by
others, and again by new reinforcements. Every town, as they pass,
replenishes their ranks, until, as they approach Shiloh, they are
increased to a mighty multitude. It is a time of joy. Songs and shouts
rend the air, and unwonted gladness reigns. All ages and conditions are
here, and every variety of human form and face. Let us draw near to one
family group. There is something more than ordinarily interesting in
their appearance. The father has a noble mien as he walks on, conversing
gaily with his children, answering their eager questions, and pointing
out the objects of deepest import to a Jew as they draw near the
Tabernacle. The children are light-hearted and gay, but the mother's
countenance does not please us. We feel instinctively that she is not
worthy of her husband; and especially is there an expression wholly
incongruous with this hour of harmony and rejoicing. While we look, she
lingers behind her family, and speaks to one, who, with slow step and