1 Samuel 1:4

And whenever the day came for Elkanah to present his sacrifice, he would give portions to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters.

Study Bible

And whenever the day came
This phrase indicates a recurring event, suggesting a regular, faithful observance of religious duties. The Hebrew word for "day" (יוֹם, yom) often signifies a specific time set apart for worship or sacrifice. This reflects the devout nature of Elkanah's household, emphasizing the importance of consistent worship in the life of a believer. Historically, this would have been during one of the three annual pilgrimage festivals, such as Passover, Shavuot, or Sukkot, when Israelites were commanded to appear before the Lord.

for Elkanah to sacrifice
The act of sacrifice was central to Old Testament worship, symbolizing atonement and devotion to God. The Hebrew root for "sacrifice" (זָבַח, zavach) implies a ritual offering, often involving the shedding of blood, which foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. Elkanah's role as the one who sacrifices highlights the responsibility of the head of the household to lead in spiritual matters, a principle that resonates with the New Testament call for men to be spiritual leaders in their families.

he would give portions of the meat
This practice of distributing portions of the sacrificial meal is rooted in the peace offerings described in Leviticus. The Hebrew word for "portions" (מָנוֹת, manot) suggests a division or allocation, symbolizing fellowship and communal participation in the blessings of God. It reflects the communal aspect of worship, where the blessings of God are shared among His people, fostering unity and gratitude.

to his wife Peninnah
Peninnah, whose name means "pearl" or "jewel," was one of Elkanah's two wives. Her mention here sets the stage for the familial tensions that follow, particularly with Hannah, Elkanah's other wife. The practice of polygamy, though recorded in the Old Testament, often led to strife and division, as seen in this narrative. This highlights the biblical ideal of monogamous marriage as a reflection of God's covenant relationship with His people.

and to all her sons and daughters
The mention of Peninnah's children underscores the theme of fertility and blessing, which is central to the narrative of 1 Samuel. In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were seen as a sign of divine favor and a source of familial strength. This sets up the contrast with Hannah's initial barrenness, which becomes a pivotal element in the unfolding account of God's miraculous intervention and the birth of Samuel, a key figure in Israel's history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elkanah
A devout man from the hill country of Ephraim, Elkanah is the husband of both Hannah and Peninnah. He is known for his annual pilgrimage to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the LORD of Hosts.

2. Peninnah
One of Elkanah's wives, Peninnah had children, which caused tension and rivalry with Hannah, Elkanah's other wife, who was barren.

3. Hannah
Elkanah's other wife, who was deeply loved by him despite her barrenness. Her account is central to the account as it leads to the birth of Samuel, a significant prophet in Israel.

4. Shiloh
The religious center where the tabernacle was located during this period. It was the place where Elkanah and his family went to offer sacrifices to God.

5. Sacrifice
The act of offering something valuable to God, which in this context involved the distribution of sacrificial meat to family members as part of the worship ritual.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Worship
Elkanah's regular pilgrimage to Shiloh demonstrates the importance of consistent worship and dedication to God, even amidst personal family struggles.

Family Dynamics and Rivalry
The tension between Peninnah and Hannah serves as a reminder of the complexities within family relationships and the need for grace and understanding.

God's Sovereignty and Timing
Hannah's account, which begins with her barrenness, ultimately shows God's perfect timing and sovereignty in answering prayers.

The Role of Sacrifice
The act of sacrifice in the Old Testament points to the importance of giving to God and sharing His blessings with others, a principle that remains relevant today.

Trust in God's Plan
Despite personal trials, trusting in God's plan and timing is crucial, as seen in Hannah's eventual blessing with a child.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elkanah's faithfulness in worship challenge us in our own spiritual practices today?

2. In what ways can the rivalry between Peninnah and Hannah inform our understanding of family dynamics and the need for compassion?

3. How does the account of Hannah's barrenness and eventual blessing encourage us to trust in God's timing and sovereignty?

4. What can we learn from the practice of sacrifice in the Old Testament, and how can we apply the principle of sacrificial giving in our lives today?

5. How do the themes of barrenness and divine intervention in 1 Samuel 1:4 connect with other biblical accounts, and what do they teach us about God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 29-30
The account of Rachel and Leah, which parallels the rivalry between Hannah and Peninnah, highlighting themes of barrenness and divine intervention.

Leviticus 7:15
Provides context for the peace offerings and the distribution of sacrificial meat, which is relevant to understanding Elkanah's actions.

Psalm 127:3-5
Speaks to the blessing of children, which contrasts with Hannah's initial barrenness and her deep desire for a child.