Skip to content
Scripture Mapping

Elkanah

Referenced in 1 chapter analysis

Walk these chapters over 1 days — the corpus’s own order, divided. Not a curated plan.

Overview

Elkanah is a significant figure in the Old Testament, primarily known as the husband of Hannah and the father of Samuel, the prophet. His story is found in the book of 1 Samuel, where he plays a crucial role in the narrative leading to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.

Elkanah lived during a time of spiritual decline in Israel, characterized by the corruption of the priesthood and a lack of faithfulness among the people. His family’s dedication to worship at Shiloh contrasts with the broader societal issues of the time.

Key themes

  • Faithfulness in Worship
  • Family and Parenthood
  • Divine Providence
  • The Role of Women in Scripture

Key verses

  1. 1 Samuel 1:5Elkanah's provision for Hannah, giving her a double portion, reflects his love and support despite her barrenness.
  2. 1 Samuel 1:27-28Hannah's fulfillment of her vow to dedicate Samuel to the Lord illustrates the faithfulness of both Elkanah and Hannah in their commitment to God.

Notable passages

  1. 1 Samuel 1:1-8Introduces Elkanah, his family dynamics, and the emotional struggles of Hannah, setting the stage for the birth of Samuel.
  2. 1 Samuel 1:9-20Hannah's prayer for a child and her vow to dedicate Samuel to the Lord, highlighting Elkanah's support.
  3. 1 Samuel 2:11Elkanah's role in the early life of Samuel, emphasizing his commitment to worship and family.

Practical applications

  • Encourage faithfulness in worship and family life, even amidst societal challenges.
  • Recognize the power of prayer and the importance of dedicating children to the Lord.
  • Support and uplift family members in their struggles, reflecting Elkanah's love for Hannah.

Theological significance

  • Demonstrates the importance of family and parental influence in the spiritual development of children.
  • Highlights God's sovereignty in answering prayers and fulfilling His promises.
  • Illustrates the role of women in God's plan, as seen through Hannah's pivotal role in the narrative.

Connected topics

Elkanah and the topics the corpus connects it to. A heavier line joins two of those topics to each other — the connection you would not have found by reading down the list. The same connections in words, with what the corpus says about each.
  • 1 Samuel

    As the father of Samuel, Elkanah's actions and decisions directly influence the prophetic leadership that Samuel would provide to Israel.

  • Hannah

    Elkanah's relationship with Hannah is central to the narrative, showcasing themes of faith, prayer, and divine intervention.

  • Zuph

    Zuph is part of the lineage of Elkanah, whose family plays a crucial role in the establishment of prophetic leadership in Israel.

Chapters that reference this

Old Testament

← All topics