This verse is from the biblical book of 1 Samuel, and it describes the relationship between Elkanah, his wife Hannah, and his other wife Peninnah. Let's break it down:
"but to Hannah he gave a double portion": Elkanah, the husband, gave Hannah a larger share of the sacrificial offering (or perhaps food in general) than he gave to Peninnah. This indicates that he favored Hannah.
"for he loved Hannah": This clearly states the reason for Elkanah's preferential treatment. He had a stronger emotional bond with Hannah.
"but Yahweh had shut up her womb": This explains why Hannah was in a state of distress. "Yahweh" is the Hebrew name for God, and the phrase "shut up her womb" means that God had made Hannah infertile, unable to conceive children.
In summary, the verse means:
Elkanah loved Hannah more than Peninnah.
Because of his love for her, he gave her a double portion of food.
However, Hannah was deeply unhappy because she was barren, and this was attributed to God's doing.
Significance and Context:
This verse highlights the contrast between Elkanah's love for Hannah and her deep sorrow over her infertility. In ancient Israelite society, bearing children, especially sons, was of immense importance. It was seen as a blessing from God, a sign of favor, and crucial for continuing the family line. Hannah's infertility was therefore a source of shame, social stigma, and emotional pain.
The verse sets the stage for Hannah's fervent prayer to God, her vow to dedicate her son to God's service, and the eventual birth of Samuel, a prophet who would play a pivotal role in Israel's history.
This verse is from the biblical book of 1 Samuel, and it describes the relationship between Elkanah, his wife Hannah, and his other wife Peninnah. Let's break it down:
"but to Hannah he gave a double portion": Elkanah, the husband, gave Hannah a larger share of the sacrificial offering (or perhaps food in general) than he gave to Peninnah. This indicates that he favored Hannah.
"for he loved Hannah": This clearly states the reason for Elkanah's preferential treatment. He had a stronger emotional bond with Hannah.
"but Yahweh had shut up her womb": This explains why Hannah was in a state of distress. "Yahweh" is the Hebrew name for God, and the phrase "shut up her womb" means that God had made Hannah infertile, unable to conceive children.
In summary, the verse means:
Elkanah loved Hannah more than Peninnah.
Because of his love for her, he gave her a double portion of food.
However, Hannah was deeply unhappy because she was barren, and this was attributed to God's doing.
Significance and Context:
This verse highlights the contrast between Elkanah's love for Hannah and her deep sorrow over her infertility. In ancient Israelite society, bearing children, especially sons, was of immense importance. It was seen as a blessing from God, a sign of favor, and crucial for continuing the family line. Hannah's infertility was therefore a source of shame, social stigma, and emotional pain.
The verse sets the stage for Hannah's fervent prayer to God, her vow to dedicate her son to God's service, and the eventual birth of Samuel, a prophet who would play a pivotal role in Israel's history.