1 Samuel 1:2

He had two wives, one named Hannah and the other Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.

Study Bible

He had two wives
In the ancient Near Eastern context, polygamy was a common practice, especially among those who were wealthy or of high status. The Hebrew word for "wives" is "נָשִׁים" (nashim), which is the plural form of "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), meaning "woman" or "wife." This practice, while not God's original design for marriage as seen in Genesis 2:24, was tolerated in certain periods of Israel's history. The presence of two wives sets the stage for the familial tension and personal struggles that will unfold in the narrative.

one named Hannah
The name "Hannah" (חַנָּה) means "grace" or "favor" in Hebrew. This name is significant as it reflects the grace that God will eventually bestow upon her. Hannah's account is one of deep personal anguish and fervent prayer, and her name foreshadows the divine favor she will receive. Her character is a model of faith and perseverance, embodying the grace that her name signifies.

and the other Peninnah
Peninnah's name (פְּנִנָּה) is derived from a word meaning "pearl" or "coral," suggesting something of value or beauty. However, in the narrative, Peninnah's role is more complex, as she becomes a source of provocation and distress for Hannah. Her presence in the account highlights the cultural and personal challenges of polygamous relationships, where rivalry and jealousy often arose.

And Peninnah had children
The ability to bear children was highly valued in ancient Israelite society, as children were seen as a blessing from God and a means of continuing the family lineage. Peninnah's fertility is contrasted with Hannah's barrenness, setting up a dynamic of tension and competition. The Hebrew word for "children" is "יְלָדִים" (yeladim), emphasizing the blessing and social status that Peninnah enjoyed.

but Hannah had none
Hannah's barrenness is a central theme in this narrative. In the cultural context, a woman's worth was often measured by her ability to bear children, and barrenness was seen as a source of shame and social stigma. The Hebrew word for "none" is "אֵין" (ein), indicating the absence or lack of something. Hannah's childlessness is not just a personal sorrow but a societal burden, which she bears with grace and faith. Her account is a powerful testament to the transformative power of prayer and God's ability to bring life and hope out of barrenness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elkanah
A man from the hill country of Ephraim, who is the husband of both Hannah and Peninnah. His account sets the stage for the birth of Samuel, a significant prophet in Israel's history.

2. Hannah
One of Elkanah's wives, who is initially barren. Her deep faith and fervent prayers are central to the account, leading to the birth of Samuel.

3. Peninnah
Elkanah's other wife, who has children. Her relationship with Hannah is marked by rivalry and tension, highlighting themes of jealousy and provocation.

4. Ramah
The hometown of Elkanah and his family, located in the hill country of Ephraim. It serves as the backdrop for the family's annual pilgrimage to Shiloh.

5. Shiloh
The religious center where the tabernacle was located during this period. It is where Elkanah and his family go to worship and offer sacrifices to the Lord.

Teaching Points

Faith in Adversity
Hannah's account teaches us to maintain faith and trust in God even when faced with personal trials and societal pressures.

The Power of Prayer
Hannah's fervent prayers demonstrate the importance of bringing our deepest desires and struggles before God, trusting in His timing and will.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over life's circumstances, including the opening and closing of the womb, reminding us of His ultimate authority.

Handling Rivalry and Jealousy
The tension between Hannah and Peninnah offers lessons on dealing with interpersonal conflicts and the destructive nature of envy.

Hope and Patience
Hannah's eventual blessing of a child after years of waiting encourages believers to remain hopeful and patient for God's promises to be fulfilled.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Hannah and Peninnah challenge us to respond to personal trials and rivalries in our own lives?

2. In what ways can Hannah's example of prayer inspire us to deepen our own prayer life, especially in times of distress?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in 1 Samuel 1:2 provide comfort and assurance in uncertain situations we face today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the relationship dynamics between Hannah and Peninnah about handling jealousy and provocation in our relationships?

5. How can the accounts of other barren women in the Bible, such as Sarah and Elizabeth, enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness and timing in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16
The account of Sarah and Hagar parallels the dynamic between Hannah and Peninnah, with themes of barrenness, rivalry, and divine intervention.

Luke 1
The account of Elizabeth, who, like Hannah, was barren before God intervened, drawing a parallel between the miraculous births of Samuel and John the Baptist.

Psalm 113:9
This verse speaks of God granting the barren woman a home, making her a joyful mother of children, reflecting God's power to change circumstances.