In the biblical narrative, the concept of the "first wife" is significant in understanding the dynamics of marriage, family, and social structure in ancient times. The role and status of the first wife are often highlighted in the context of polygamous relationships, which were common in the patriarchal societies of the Old Testament.

Eve: The First Woman and Wife

Eve is recognized as the first woman and wife in the Bible. Created by God as a companion for Adam, she is described in Genesis 2:22-24 : "Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib He had taken out of the man, and He brought her to the man. And the man said: 'This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman,' for out of man she was taken.' For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." Eve's creation establishes the foundational principle of monogamous marriage as God's original design.

Sarah: The First Wife of Abraham

Sarah, originally named Sarai, is the first wife of Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelite nation. Her account is pivotal in the narrative of God's covenant with Abraham. Despite her initial barrenness, Sarah is promised a son by God, and she becomes the mother of Isaac, through whom the covenant is continued. Genesis 17:15-16 records God's promise: "Then God said to Abraham, 'As for Sarai your wife, do not call her Sarai, for her name will be Sarah. And I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she will become nations; kings of peoples will descend from her.'"

Leah: The First Wife of Jacob

Leah, the first wife of Jacob, is introduced in Genesis 29. Jacob, in love with Rachel, Leah's younger sister, is deceived by their father Laban into marrying Leah first. Despite this deception, Leah becomes the mother of six of the twelve tribes of Israel, including Judah, from whom the line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ descends. Genesis 29:31 notes, "When the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, He opened her womb; but Rachel was barren."

Hannah: The First Wife of Elkanah

Hannah, the first wife of Elkanah, is a central figure in the opening chapters of 1 Samuel. Known for her deep faith and fervent prayer, Hannah is initially barren but vows to dedicate her child to the Lord if He grants her a son. Her prayer is answered with the birth of Samuel, who becomes a significant prophet and leader in Israel. 1 Samuel 1:19-20 recounts, "Elkanah lay with his wife Hannah, and the LORD remembered her. So in the course of time, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, 'Because I have asked for him from the LORD.'"

Role and Significance

The first wife in biblical accounts often holds a position of honor and influence, even amidst the complexities of polygamous arrangements. Her role is integral to the unfolding of God's promises and the establishment of family lines that play crucial roles in biblical history. The narratives of these women reflect themes of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention, illustrating the profound impact of the first wife in the biblical tradition.