1 Samuel 4:20

As she was dying, the women attending to her said, "Do not be afraid, for you have given birth to a son!" But she did not respond or pay any heed.

Study Bible

As she was dying
This phrase refers to the wife of Phinehas, the daughter-in-law of Eli, who was in labor during a time of great distress for Israel. The context is the aftermath of the battle in which the Ark of the Covenant was captured by the Philistines, and her husband and father-in-law had died. Her death symbolizes the spiritual decline and judgment upon Israel. The mention of her dying highlights the severity of the situation and the fulfillment of the prophecy against Eli's house (1 Samuel 2:31-34).

the women attending to her said
In ancient Israel, childbirth was typically attended by women who provided support and care. These women were likely trying to comfort her in her final moments. Their presence underscores the communal nature of life in ancient Israel, where women played crucial roles in family and community life.

“Do not be afraid, for you have given birth to a son!”
The birth of a son was traditionally a cause for great joy and seen as a blessing, as sons were considered heirs and could carry on the family name. The women’s attempt to console her with this news reflects cultural values that prioritized male offspring. However, the context of the Ark's capture and the deaths in her family overshadow this joy, indicating a deeper spiritual crisis.

But she did not respond or pay any heed.
Her lack of response signifies her overwhelming grief and despair, which eclipses the cultural joy of having a son. This reaction can be seen as a reflection of the national tragedy and the loss of God's presence symbolized by the Ark. Her indifference to the birth of her son, Ichabod, whose name means "the glory has departed," underscores the gravity of Israel's spiritual state. This moment foreshadows the continued struggles of Israel and the need for a faithful leader, ultimately pointing to the future hope found in Jesus Christ, who restores God's presence among His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman (Phinehas' Wife)
The wife of Phinehas, who was the son of Eli, the high priest. She was pregnant and went into labor upon hearing the news of the Ark of the Covenant being captured and the deaths of her husband and father-in-law.

2. The Women Attending Her
These were likely midwives or women from the community who were present to assist her during childbirth.

3. The Birth of a Son
The event of childbirth is significant here, as it is traditionally a moment of joy, yet it is overshadowed by tragedy.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, the capture of the Ark by the Philistines is the backdrop of this event, symbolizing the loss of God's presence and favor.

5. Eli and Phinehas
Eli was the high priest, and Phinehas was his son. Their deaths, along with the capture of the Ark, precipitated the tragic circumstances of this verse.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Spiritual Loss
The capture of the Ark signifies a profound spiritual loss for Israel, reminding us of the importance of God's presence in our lives.

The Role of Despair and Hope
Despite the despairing circumstances, the birth of a son is a glimmer of hope. In our darkest moments, we should seek God's promises and hope.

The Impact of Leadership Failure
Eli's and his sons' failures led to national tragedy. This underscores the importance of godly leadership and personal integrity.

The Significance of Names and Legacy
The naming of Ichabod reflects the spiritual state of Israel. Our actions and decisions can leave a lasting legacy, either positive or negative.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of Phinehas' wife to the birth of her son reflect her understanding of the events surrounding her?

2. In what ways can the capture of the Ark be seen as a consequence of Israel's spiritual state, and how does this apply to our personal spiritual lives?

3. How do the events in 1 Samuel 4:20-22 illustrate the importance of godly leadership, and what can we learn from this for our communities today?

4. Compare the response of Phinehas' wife to the birth of her son with Rachel's response in Genesis 35. What do these accounts teach us about dealing with personal tragedy?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's promises during times of despair, as seen in the birth of Ichabod amidst national crisis?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:16-20
The death of Rachel during childbirth and the naming of her son, Benjamin, parallels the tragic circumstances of Phinehas' wife, highlighting themes of sorrow and legacy.

1 Samuel 4:21-22
The naming of the child Ichabod, meaning "The glory has departed," directly follows this verse and emphasizes the spiritual and national crisis Israel faces.

Psalm 78:60-64
This passage reflects on the consequences of Israel's disobedience, including the loss of the Ark, providing a broader context for the events in 1 Samuel 4.