Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons?
Then her husband Elkanah said to her, 'Hannah, why are you crying? Why won't you eat? Why is your heart so sad? Aren't I worth more to you than ten sons?'
Elkanah is trying to comfort his heartbroken wife Hannah by reminding her of his love, though he doesn't fully understand the depth of her pain over being childless.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical story of 1 Samuel, Hannah was a faithful woman married to Elkanah, but she suffered from barrenness, which was a source of deep sorrow in a culture where children, especially sons, were seen as essential for family legacy and God's blessing. This verse occurs during a family feast when Hannah is grieving her inability to conceive, and Elkanah responds with concern and affection to comfort her. His words reflect the personal dynamics of their relationship amid the broader societal pressures of ancient Israel.
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