1 samuel 1:4 - When the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions;

Generated Verse: 1 samuel 1:4

What does "1 samuel 1:4" mean?


This verse describes a recurring event in the life of Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah. Let's break it down:

"When the day came that Elkanah sacrificed...": Elkanah was a devout man who regularly traveled to Shiloh to offer sacrifices to God. These sacrifices were often followed by a communal feast.

"...he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions;": This is the crucial part. After the sacrifice, Elkanah would distribute portions of the sacrificed animal as food. This verse specifically highlights that Peninnah (Elkanah's other wife) and all of her children received a portion. The significance is that she has many children to be given portions, unlike Hannah who is barren. This highlights the fact that Peninnah is favored with children.

Meaning and Significance:

Family Distribution: This verse shows Elkanah fulfilling his familial responsibilities. He is providing for his wife and children.
Contrast with Hannah's Situation: While this verse doesn't explicitly mention Hannah, it sets the stage for the next verse. The fact that Peninnah and all her children are receiving portions emphasizes Hannah's childless state. It subtly highlights the contrast and likely adds to Hannah's sorrow.
Power Dynamics: In this cultural context, having children, especially sons, was a source of status and honor. Peninnah, with her numerous children, likely held a position of social advantage within the family. This verse underscores that advantage.
Fertility vs. Barrenness: This verse is a reminder of the tension between Peninnah's fertility and Hannah's barrenness, a central theme of the beginning of 1 Samuel. It builds up the sympathy for Hannah and highlights her desperation for a child.

In summary, this verse paints a picture of Elkanah's regular religious practices and highlights the contrast between Peninnah's fertile status and Hannah's barrenness, setting the stage for the poignant story of Hannah's prayer for a child.

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