1 Samuel 1:2 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

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.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

He had two wives: one was named Hannah, and the other was named Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse introduces us to Elkanah's family situation - he had two wives, but only one of them (Peninnah) had been able to have children, while Hannah remained childless.

📚 Historical Context

This takes place during the time of the judges in ancient Israel, around 1100 BC, when polygamy was legally permitted though not ideal according to God's original design. Having multiple wives was sometimes practiced for economic reasons or to ensure having children, which was considered essential for family legacy and security in old age.

Explore Similar Verses

1 Samuel 1:4

When it came time for Elkanah to make his offering, he would give portions of the sacrificial meal to his wife Peninnah and to all of her sons and daughters.

1 Samuel 2:21

The LORD blessed Hannah with more children - she had three more sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the LORD's presence.

1 Samuel 1:5

But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved Hannah, even though the LORD had made her unable to have children.

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