Bible Verse Meaning: 1 Samuel 1:5

Verse Reference: 1 Samuel 1:5
Verse Text: "But to Hannah he gave a double portion, for he loved Hannah, though the Lord had closed her womb."

Overview of 1 Samuel 1:5

This verse is part of the narrative about Hannah, one of the key figures in the Bible who struggled with infertility. The emphasis here lies in the particular love that her husband, Elkanah, had for her, despite her inability to bear children—a situation that was culturally significant and often looked down upon in biblical times. This verse sets the stage for understanding Hannah's profound anguish and her subsequent prayer for a child.

Bible Verse Explanations and Interpretations

The verse conveys deep emotional and social themes that can be further understood through various commentaries.

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the compassion of Elkanah towards Hannah. The double portion he provides signifies not only his love but also an acknowledgment of her pain and social status. It illustrates God's providential care in challenging situations, as Elkanah’s act of giving reflects the grace that would later enable Hannah to fulfill her potential as the mother of Samuel, a significant prophet in Israel's history.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes notes that the phrase “the Lord had closed her womb” indicates God's sovereignty in Hannah’s plight. It serves to highlight that even in human despair, God retains control and his purposes through personal suffering. Barnes implies that Elkanah’s affections were a portrayal of God’s mercy, a beacon of hope amidst Hannah’s struggles with her circumstances.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke discusses the significance of the double portion given to Hannah. He informs us that this could symbolize the love and favor that Elkanah had for her, and it marked her as a special wife despite societal norms that regarded childbearing as essential for a woman’s worth. Clarke further indicates that this act reflects deeper spiritual truths about God's love and favor that surpasses human understanding and cultural expectations.

Meaning and Application for Today

The implications of 1 Samuel 1:5 are significant for modern believers. The verse stresses the importance of compassion in relationships, especially in the face of personal struggles. It encourages individuals to look beyond societal judgments and biases, affirming that love and support can be powerful agents of change and hope.

Additionally, this verse can be a source of comfort for those facing their own “closed womb” experiences, symbolizing various forms of barrenness in life—be it emotional, spiritual, or relational. It serves as a reminder of God’s intricate plans and purposes, often realized through adversity and personal trials.

Related Cross References

• Genesis 30:1-2 - The struggle of Rachel with infertility.
• 1 Samuel 2:21 - God's eventual blessing upon Hannah with children.
• Luke 1:36 - The story of Elizabeth, who also experienced barrenness but received God's grace.

Conclusion

Understanding Scripture is enriched by recognizing the emotional and relational dynamics depicted in biblical narratives. The commentary on 1 Samuel 1:5 provides insights into the nature of divine love, human suffering, and the importance of support during difficult times. This verse not only illustrates the challenges faced by Hannah but also lays the groundwork for a remarkable story of faith, hope, and the fulfillment of God's promises.