Why did Elkanah give Hannah a double portion despite her barrenness? The pilgrimage to Shiloh Each year Elkanah led his family to worship and sacrifice at Shiloh. When the meal from the fellowship sacrifice was divided, the meat portions visibly displayed the honor each family member held in his eyes. A husband’s choice: double portion despite barrenness “ But to Hannah he would give a double portion, for he loved her even though the LORD had closed her womb.” (1 Samuel 1:5) • “Double portion” (Hebrew: a two-faced share) meant twice as much meat as anyone else received. • The gesture was public; everyone at the table saw Hannah honored. • The text links the gift directly to love―“for he loved her.” Elkanah’s affection was not tied to Hannah’s ability to bear children. Layers of meaning behind the double portion • Personal compassion – Hannah’s barren state exposed her to social reproach (1 Samuel 1:6). Elkanah’s generous share countered that shame with visible affirmation. • Reversal of expectations – Inheritance law assigned a double portion to the firstborn son (Deuteronomy 21:17). Elkanah treats the childless wife as though she already possessed that dignity. • Prophetic hope – By faith, he acts as though fruitfulness will come. The portion anticipates the son God will soon give (1 Samuel 1:20). • Picture of covenant love – Like Christ’s love for His barren-hearted people, Elkanah’s love is unearned and lavish (Ephesians 1:6-8). Echoes across Scripture • Jacob showed special favor to Rachel, who was also barren at first (Genesis 29:30-31). • Job received “double all that he had” after his ordeal (Job 42:10). • The LORD promises His people, “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion” (Isaiah 61:7). • Mary rejoiced that God “looked with favor on the humble state” of a woman unable to lift herself (Luke 1:48). What this reveals about God’s heart • He values persons before performance; worth rests in His love, not in what we produce. • He comforts the broken by giving honor in the very place of their pain. • He often signals future blessing with present grace, encouraging faith while we wait. • He works through family love to mirror His own generous, redeeming affection toward those who feel empty. |
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