Overview
Elkanah was a devout Ephraimite who loved his wife Hannah deeply, even though she remained childless while his other wife Peninnah had children. Despite the cultural shame and Peninnah's taunting, Elkanah consistently affirmed Hannah's worth and encouraged her faith, demonstrating sacrificial love and spiritual leadership in his household.
Key Scriptures
"Elkanah her husband said to her, 'Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?'" (1 Samuel 1:8, ESV)
"And Elkanah went up with all his household to offer to the LORD the yearly sacrifice" (1 Samuel 1:21, NASB)
"The man Elkanah and all his house went down to Shiloh to make the yearly sacrifice to the LORD and to pay his vow" (1 Samuel 1:21, NIV)
Application
Husbands should follow Elkanah's example by affirming their wives' spiritual worth, supporting their faith during trials, and leading their families in worship regardless of external circumstances.