1 Samuel 1:2 kjv

And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.

1 Samuel 1:2 nkjv

And he had two wives: the name of one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.

1 Samuel 1:2 niv

He had two wives; one was called Hannah and the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.

1 Samuel 1:2 esv

He had two wives. The name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other, Peninnah. And Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.

1 Samuel 1:2 nlt

Elkanah had two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah did not.

1 Samuel 1 verses

1 Samuel 1 2 Meaning

This verse introduces Elkanah, a man with two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. It immediately highlights their contrasting situations: Peninnah had children, while Hannah did not. This establishes the central tension and the primary catalyst for the subsequent narrative in 1 Samuel chapter 1.

1 Samuel 1 2 Context

This verse serves as the immediate introduction to the challenging domestic situation of Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah. It quickly establishes the central conflict of the narrative: Hannah's barrenness in a culture where childbearing was of paramount importance, seen as both a blessing and a social expectation. Historically, this period in Israel's history (mid-late 11th century BC) followed the chaotic era of the Judges, marked by spiritual and moral decline. The narrative in 1 Samuel often contrasts human failings with God's sovereignty and intervention, and Hannah's story exemplifies this by showing God raising a faithful prophet (Samuel) out of personal distress and seemingly impossible circumstances. Polygamy, while practiced, often resulted in familial discord as illustrated here.

1 Samuel 1 2 Word analysis

• And he had: Refers to Elkanah, indicating his marital status and household arrangement. He is the head of the family, providing for both wives.
• two wives: (Hebrew: shtey nashim, שְׁתֵּי נָשִׁים) The use of the plural "wives" highlights a polygamous marriage. While permitted under Mosaic Law in specific circumstances (e.g., Lev 18:18; Deut 21:15-17), polygamy in biblical narratives almost universally leads to jealousy, conflict, and heartache, as seen in the families of Abraham (Sarah and Hagar), Jacob (Leah and Rachel), and here with Elkanah. It reflects a societal practice rather than divine ideal.
• the name of the one was Hannah: (Hebrew: Channah, חַנָּה) The name "Hannah" means "favor" or "grace." This is deeply ironic given her initial state of childlessness and intense suffering, setting up the theme of God's sovereign grace ultimately being bestowed upon her despite her difficult circumstances.
• and the name of the other Peninnah: (Hebrew: Pninah, פְּנִנָּה) The name "Peninnah" means "pearl" or "coral" – a valuable gem. This name contrasts with Hannah's in a striking way; Peninnah possesses what Hannah desires most: children, who were often considered a precious "jewel" or heritage from God in ancient Israel. This naming further highlights their opposition.
• And Peninnah had children: (Hebrew: va-t'hiy l'Finah yeladim, וַתְּהִי לִפְנִנָּה יְלָדִים) This stark statement immediately establishes Peninnah's privileged status in the culture. Having children, especially sons, was considered a significant blessing from God (Ps 127:3), a source of honor, and ensured continuation of the family line. It provided Peninnah a basis for pride and, regrettably, for mocking Hannah (1 Sam 1:6).
• but Hannah had no children: (Hebrew: u-l'Channah ein yeled, וּלְחַנָּה אֵין יֶלֶד) Literally, "and to Hannah there was no child." This highlights Hannah's barrenness as a central affliction and a source of profound personal distress and social reproach in ancient Israelite society (Lk 1:25). It sets the stage for her heartfelt prayer and the miraculous intervention of God, demonstrating His power to open the womb.

• "Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children": This direct contrast is the pivot of the entire first chapter. It immediately introduces the primary source of conflict and pain in Elkanah's household. It sets up the thematic tension between barrenness and fruitfulness, suffering and divine deliverance, and the contrast between human circumstances and God's sovereign plan. This lack of children for Hannah is not just a personal issue but becomes the crucible for her faith and eventually for the bringing forth of Samuel, a crucial figure in Israel's history.

1 Samuel 1 2 Bonus section

The immediate establishment of Hannah's barrenness indicates its critical narrative function beyond just personal pain. It foreshadows that the protagonist of the story, Samuel, will be a product of divine intervention rather than normal biological means, highlighting God's direct involvement in raising up His chosen instruments. The specific contrast also highlights that human relationships, even within a family structure, can be marred by rivalry and insensitivity when spiritual understanding and love are lacking. Elkanah, despite his love for Hannah, cannot alleviate her core distress, emphasizing that ultimate help must come from the Lord.

1 Samuel 1 2 Commentary

This concise verse immediately sets the emotional and thematic stage for the unfolding drama in 1 Samuel. By presenting Elkanah with his two wives, Hannah and Peninnah, it lays bare a household shaped by stark contrasts. Peninnah's fertility stands in sharp relief against Hannah's barrenness, which in ancient Israel was a source of immense personal anguish and social disgrace. This seemingly simple statement of facts – one wife with children, the other without – establishes the crucible of Hannah's pain and Peninnah's cruel rivalry. The conflict arising from Hannah's childlessness will drive her to profound prayer and ultimately lead to God's miraculous intervention, paving the way for the birth of Samuel, Israel's great prophet and judge. The narrative thus begins by depicting human difficulty and distress as the context in which God will manifest His power and purpose.