Dying of a broken heart ∙∙

Dying of a broken heart ∙∙

Eli was waiting beside the road to hear the news of the battle, for his heart trembled at the thought of the Ark of God’s safety. When the messenger arrived and told what had happened, an outcry resounded throughout the town. – 1 Samuel 4:13

1 Samuel 4:16-18

 16 He said to Eli, “I have just come from the battlefield – I was there this very day.” “What happened, my son?” Eli demanded.

 17 “Israel has been defeated by the Philistines,” the messenger replied. “The people have been slaughtered, and your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were also killed. And the Ark of God has been captured.”

 18 When the messenger mentioned what had happened to the Ark of God, Eli fell backward from his seat beside the gate. He broke his neck and died because he was old and overweight.

Can People Die of a Broken Heart?

The answer is a resounding yes. The phenomenon of dying from a “broken heart” is not merely a poetic metaphor; it is a medically recognized condition. Known as Broken Heart Syndrome, this condition underscores the profound connection between our emotions and the physical response of the heart.

What is Broken Heart Syndrome?

Broken Heart Syndrome, also called Takotsubo Syndrome, was first identified in Japan in 1990. The term “Takotsubo” refers to a Japanese octopus trap, which resembles the shape the heart takes during this condition. It is triggered by sudden, intense emotional or physical stressors, such as:

• The death or divorce of a loved one
• An unwanted breakup
• Natural disasters or wars
• Major financial setbacks
• The loss of a beloved pet

These stressors cause a surge of adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can temporarily weaken the heart muscle and cause symptoms that mimic a heart attack.

The Science Behind the Syndrome

Research indicates that grief and stress can have a significant impact on heart health. A study conducted by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that the risk of experiencing a heart attack increases 21 times within the first day following the death of a loved one (Harvard Heart Letter).

Although most individuals recover fully from Broken Heart Syndrome, approximately 1% of cases can result in death, according to the American Heart Association and the Cleveland Clinic. This highlights the potentially life-threatening effects of extreme emotional distress.

Real-Life Examples of Broken Heart Syndrome

Several documented cases illustrate the possibility of dying from a broken heart.

• Johnny Cash and June Carter: The legendary country singer Johnny Cash passed away just months after the death of his beloved wife, June Carter. Many believe his grief contributed to his death.
• Doug Flutie’s Parents: The parents of NFL star Doug Flutie both died on the same day. Flutie’s mother passed away shortly after his father, leading many to speculate that her death was due to a broken heart.
• Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher: In December 2016, actress Debbie Reynolds died just one day after the death of her daughter, Carrie Fisher. Many suspect this was a case of Broken Heart Syndrome, highlighting the devastating impact of grief.  

Physical Toll of Grief

Grief and loss are not merely emotional experiences; they can lead to significant physical consequences. The increase of stress hormones during periods of intense emotional distress can weaken the heart, making it susceptible to serious complications.

As Jocelyn Soriano writes in Mend My Broken Heart, “It is our wounds that create in us a desire to reach for miracles. The fulfillment of such miracles depends on whether we let our wounds pull us down or lift us up towards our dreams.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Grief is a heavy burden, but we do not have to carry it alone. The Father is close to the brokenhearted and provides comfort and healing.

Father, thank You for sending the Lord Jesus Christ to soothe and rescue the brokenhearted. Help us to find strength in You during times of grief and loss.

INSIGHT

Eli’s Anguish for the Ark of God

Eli, the high priest of Israel, was overwhelmed with anxiety as he awaited news from the battlefield. His primary concern was not for his sons, but for the safety of the Ark of God. 1 Samuel 4:13 describes his state, “Eli was waiting beside the road to hear the news of the battle, for his heart trembled for the safety of the Ark of God. When the messenger arrived and told what had happened, an outcry resounded throughout the town.”

The Hebrew word translated as “trembled” is chared. Chared paints a vivid picture of Eli’s emotional state. It conveys a sense of “fearful trembling or shaking, a physical manifestation of deep anxiety.” Eli’s heart “vibrated with fear,” reflecting his overwhelming concern for the Ark, which symbolized God’s presence.

The Messenger’s Report: A Gradual Unveiling of Tragedy

Eli’s conversation with the messenger unfolds with a systematic unveiling of increasingly devastating news. The report escalates from minor to significant concerns, culminating in a dramatic and heartbreaking climax:

• “Israel fled.”
• “The army has suffered heavy losses.”
• “Your two sons . . .are dead.”
• “The Ark of God has been captured.”

Eli’s worst nightmare was realized with the mention of the Ark. His anxiety for its safety overshadowed even the loss of his sons. As theologian Bergen notes, the narrative structure highlights the Ark’s significance, demonstrating that Eli’s ultimate concern was God’s covenant and His presence among His people.

Eli’s Death: The Weight of Judgment

The news had too great an impact for Eli to bear. 1 Samuel 4:18 recounts his tragic end, “When he mentioned the Ark of God, Eli fell off the seat backward beside the gate, and his neck was broken, and he died.”

Interestingly, the writer does not explicitly state that the news of the Ark’s capture killed Eli. As John Woodhouse observes, “Curiously, the writer does not tell us that it was the news that the Ark had been taken that killed Eli. In a strange expression, he tells us that it was the mention of the Ark itself. This confirmed his great fear. The God of the covenant, whose Ark it was, had dealt with Eli’s sons. And Eli knew that this was the beginning of the judgment.” As soon as the Ark was mentioned, Eli died.

The mention of the Ark was the realization of Eli’s worst fears and the certainty of God’s judgment. His death marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Israel’s history.

The Profound Impact of Loss

Eli’s story reminds us of the deep grief and anguish that often accompany significant losses. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, a cherished relationship, or something else of great importance, such experiences can leave us feeling heartbroken and overwhelmed.

As Jocelyn Soriano beautifully writes, “Many times, all we need is just a warm hand to hold us and a friend who will be there for us as we face the most difficult times we’ve ever had.”

God’s Presence in Our Brokenness

Even when the children of the King are fully committed to Him, that is, “all in,” they are not immune to life’s trials and traumas. However, the Father promises His presence during these moments of despair. Psalm 34:18 offers this assurance, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”

When we are proud, self-reliant, or distant from God, we may feel His absence. But when our hearts are broken and our spirits are crushed, He draws near, ready to heal and restore.

Overcoming the Lies of Despair

In moments of brokenness, our emotions can mislead us into believing that God has abandoned us. We may mistakenly think we have exhausted all our options and are destined to remain trapped in emotional despair with no way out. Yet, this could not be further from the truth.

As Ray Ortlund reminds us, “Into our age, Jesus says, ‘I came to bear your guilty despair far away, and to replace it with joy inexpressible and filled with glory.’ He single-handedly does it. He has the Spirit. He has the Word. That’s all He needs to remake the whole world, beginning with you and me.”

Psalm 147:3 provides this comforting promise, “He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.”

Finding Hope in the Midst of Loss

Grief and loss are shared experiences that often bring profound pain and sorrow, sometimes feeling insurmountable. As Jocelyn Soriano poignantly observes, “There will always be a pain in ‘goodbyes.’ No matter how much we seem to understand everything, it breaks our hearts ever to see anything beautiful die.”

Yet, even in the midst of our pain, we can find hope in the Father’s love and care. He is close to the brokenhearted, ready to comfort, heal, and guide us through life’s storms.

Are you feeling the weight of grief or loss? Remember that the Father is near, prepared to comfort and restore you. He understands your pain and offers His presence as a source of healing and hope.

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© Dr. H 2025