Topical Bible: Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds

◄ Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Elkanah, a figure from the Old Testament, is most notably recognized as the father of the prophet Samuel. His account is primarily found in the opening chapters of the First Book of Samuel. Elkanah's family life provides a poignant example of the infelicities that can arise from bigamy, a practice that, while culturally accepted in certain periods of biblical history, often led to familial discord and strife.

Background and Context

Elkanah was an Ephraimite, residing in the hill country of Ephraim. He is described as a devout man who regularly traveled to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts (1 Samuel 1:3). Elkanah had two wives, Hannah and Peninnah, a situation that set the stage for significant domestic tension.

Bigamic Feuds and Familial Discord

The biblical narrative highlights the emotional turmoil and rivalry between Elkanah's two wives. Peninnah had children, while Hannah was initially barren, a condition that caused her great distress. Peninnah, perhaps feeling insecure in her position, provoked Hannah severely, exacerbating the latter's sorrow (1 Samuel 1:6). This rivalry is a classic example of the complications and heartache that often accompanied polygamous arrangements.

Elkanah's attempts to console Hannah reveal his affection for her, yet also underscore the limitations of his understanding of her plight. He asked, "Hannah, why are you weeping? Why do you not eat? Why is your heart grieved? Am I not better to you than ten sons?" (1 Samuel 1:8). Despite his good intentions, Elkanah's question reflects a lack of comprehension of the deep yearning for children that Hannah experienced, a desire that was culturally significant and personally profound.

Spiritual and Emotional Implications

The tension within Elkanah's household serves as a microcosm of the broader spiritual and emotional challenges associated with bigamy. The Bible does not explicitly condemn Elkanah for having two wives, yet the narrative implicitly critiques the practice by illustrating the pain and division it caused. Hannah's eventual prayer and vow to the LORD, resulting in the birth of Samuel, highlight her personal faith and reliance on God amidst her suffering (1 Samuel 1:10-11).

Hannah's account, culminating in her song of thanksgiving (1 Samuel 2:1-10), contrasts with the strife within the family, emphasizing the peace and fulfillment that come from a direct relationship with God. Her experience underscores the biblical theme that true contentment and resolution of personal anguish are found in divine rather than human solutions.

Conclusion

The account of Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah offers a vivid illustration of the infelicities inherent in bigamous relationships. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for discord and emotional pain when God's design for marriage is not followed. The narrative ultimately points to the sufficiency of God's grace and the importance of faithfulness and prayer in overcoming life's challenges.

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