The Depth of Anguish
Last time, we imagined the longing in Hannah’s heart. Today, we delve deeper into that raw anguish. We will learn what prompted her to seek God.
Was it personal pain, societal rejection, or her home’s complex dynamics?
In this post, we will take a step through the front door of her home.
Love Amid The Struggle
Here is the twist in the story.
Hannah’s husband, Elkanah, had two wives.
Yup. Two wives.
Quite common in those Old Testament times. Peninnah’s was her name, and they had several children together. Peninnah’s fertility constantly reminded Hannah of her barrenness. And the laughter of Peninnah’s children amplified her sorrow. For Hannah, it was a living hell.
At one point in the story, Elkanah gave Hannah a double portion because the “Lord had closed her womb.” (1 Samuel 1:5) This proved that he loved her. As if he sensed her deep anguish.
Can you feel the weight of such anguish?
This background will help us understand Hannah’s anguish more fully as we dig into scripture next time.
See you there.
#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy
I and Thou Reflections 