Time period
11th Century BC
Cultural background
The period of the Judges, a time of tribal confederation in Israel before the establishment of the monarchy.
Political environment
Israel was a loose confederation of tribes without centralized leadership, often oppressed by surrounding nations.
Geographical setting
The events occur in the hill country of Ephraim, specifically in Ramathaim-Zophim and Shiloh, where the tabernacle was located.
Societal norms
Polygamy was practiced, and a woman's worth was often measured by her ability to bear children. The tabernacle at Shiloh was the central place of worship.
Significant figures
Hannah
Elkanah
Husband of Hannah, a Levite from the hill country of Ephraim.
Eli
High Priest at Shiloh who blesses Hannah.
Peninnah
Elkanah's other wife, who provokes Hannah.
Connected events
- Judges (context of the period of the Judges)
- 1 Samuel Chapter 2 (Hannah's prayer and Samuel's early life)