1 Samuel 1:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Samuel 1:4 mean?

1 Samuel 1:4 describes how Elkanah, during a time of offering, would give portions of the sacrificial meal to his wife Peninnah and to each of her sons and daughters. This verse shows Elkanah’s care in making sure his family received their share during a religious celebration.

Elkanah is the husband, and Peninnah is one of his wives, who has several children. The setting is a family trip to Shiloh for a yearly sacrifice, a common religious practice for Israelites at the time. The verse highlights the family’s participation in worship and the distribution of food from the sacrifice, which was an important part of their tradition.

The Hebrew behind 1 Samuel 1:4

• "offered" (זָבַח, zāvaḥ): This word means to sacrifice or slaughter, especially in a religious context. It emphasizes that Elkanah was performing a formal act of worship, not just a family meal.
• "portions" (מָנָה, mānāh): This word refers to a share or serving, often of food. In this context, it means the parts of the sacrificial meat given to each family member, showing their inclusion in the celebration.

Why 1 Samuel 1:4 matters

• This verse helps clarify the family structure and dynamics, showing that Peninnah had multiple children, which becomes important in understanding the tension with Hannah, Elkanah’s other wife.
• The act of giving portions to each child and to Peninnah highlights Elkanah’s role as a provider and the importance of ritual meals in Israelite worship.
• Understanding this verse sets up the contrast in the next verses, where Hannah’s situation is described, deepening the emotional impact of her story.