1 Samuel 1:2
And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.
Original Language Analysis
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
H8034
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
4 of 15
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
אַחַת֙
of the one
H259
אַחַת֙
of the one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
5 of 15
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
H8034
וְשֵׁ֥ם
and the name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
7 of 15
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
הַשֵּׁנִ֖ית
of the other
H8145
הַשֵּׁנִ֖ית
of the other
Strong's:
H8145
Word #:
8 of 15
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
וַיְהִ֤י
H1961
וַיְהִ֤י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
10 of 15
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
Historical Context
Polygamy, while permitted in ancient Israel, consistently produced family strife in biblical narratives (Abraham-Sarah-Hagar, Jacob-Leah-Rachel). The practice was tolerated but never endorsed as God's ideal for marriage (Genesis 2:24). Archaeological evidence confirms that polygamy was common among wealthy households in Iron Age Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Scripture's honest portrayal of family dysfunction encourage believers facing similar struggles?
- What does Hannah's situation teach about finding identity and worth in God rather than cultural expectations?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The introduction of Elkanah's two wives immediately signals domestic tension that drives the narrative. Hannah's name means 'grace' or 'favor,' while Peninnah means 'pearl' or 'coral.' The stark contrast between Peninnah's fertility and Hannah's barrenness echoes earlier matriarchal struggles (Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel). In ancient Near Eastern culture, a woman's primary value was measured by her ability to bear children, particularly sons. This cultural context intensifies Hannah's anguish and makes God's subsequent intervention more remarkable.