Topical Bible: Cruelty: Peninnah to Hannah

◄ Cruelty: Peninnah to Hannah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative found in 1 Samuel 1, the account of Peninnah and Hannah provides a poignant example of interpersonal cruelty and its emotional impact. Peninnah and Hannah were both wives of Elkanah, a man from the hill country of Ephraim. While Peninnah had children, Hannah was barren, a condition that brought her great distress and societal shame in ancient Israel.

The text highlights Peninnah's cruelty towards Hannah, which is particularly evident during their annual pilgrimage to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the LORD. The Berean Standard Bible describes this dynamic: "And because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival would provoke her and taunt her viciously" (1 Samuel 1:6). Peninnah's actions were not merely passive but actively intended to cause emotional pain, exploiting Hannah's vulnerability and deep desire for children.

This cruelty is further emphasized in the narrative: "Year after year, whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival taunted her until she wept and would not eat" (1 Samuel 1:7). The repetition of this behavior "year after year" underscores the persistent nature of Peninnah's torment, which led to Hannah's profound sorrow and distress.

Hannah's response to this cruelty is marked by her deep faith and earnest prayer. Despite the pain inflicted by Peninnah, Hannah turns to God in her anguish. In 1 Samuel 1:10, the BSB states, "In her bitter distress, Hannah prayed to the LORD and wept with many tears." Her prayer is a heartfelt plea for a child, and she vows to dedicate him to the LORD if her request is granted.

The narrative ultimately reveals God's compassion and response to Hannah's plight. The LORD remembers her, and she conceives and bears a son, Samuel, who becomes a significant figure in Israel's history. This outcome highlights the biblical theme of divine justice and mercy, contrasting human cruelty with God's faithfulness and care for the afflicted.

The account of Peninnah and Hannah serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of cruelty and the importance of compassion and empathy. It also illustrates the power of prayer and faith in overcoming adversity and finding solace in God's presence.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 1:4-7
And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions:
Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 2:3
Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogance come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.
Nave's Topical Index