1. 1 Samuel 1:5 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What is the significance of Elkanah giving Hannah a double portion?

1 Samuel 1:5 (ESV)

5 But to Hannah he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the LORD had closed her womb.

Though the ESV mentions a double portion, the precise meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain and many commentators suggest that a single portion is in view (as in the Septuagint). The meaning, however, is clear: Hannah receives an excellent or the best portion of meat on account of the fact that she is loved by Elkanah.