Sexual violation in the Hebrew Bible
Book Description
This scholarly exploration delves into two pivotal biblical narratives that have shaped understanding of gender, power, and justice for millennia. Mary Anna Bader examines the stories of Dinah and Tamar from Genesis and Second Samuel, offering fresh insights into these complex accounts of sexual violation through rigorous biblical analysis.
Using multiple interpretive approaches, Bader investigates the original Hebrew terminology and its various translations, revealing how language choices have influenced centuries of interpretation. The study illuminates fascinating patterns within these narratives, particularly how the violated women's brothers emerge as central figures while their fathers retreat into troubling silence. This dynamic creates a striking contrast between violent brotherly response and paternal inaction that resonates across cultures and eras.
The book extends beyond textual analysis to examine relevant Hebrew Bible laws concerning sexual misconduct, providing crucial context for understanding these difficult passages. Bader thoughtfully connects ancient texts to contemporary experience, drawing from classroom observations and student responses to demonstrate how these stories continue to provoke meaningful dialogue about trauma, family dynamics, and moral responsibility.
Designed for biblical studies and women's religious studies courses, this work offers valuable tools for anyone seeking to engage thoughtfully with challenging scriptural material. The book provides both academic rigor and practical teaching insights for those exploring how ancient wisdom traditions address profound human experiences of violation and healing.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
📄 Length: 206 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Narrative Criticism
- ✓ Explore Genesis 34
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Narrative Exegese
- ✓ Explore Femmes dans la Bible
- ✓ Explore Women in the Bible
- ✓ Explore Gewalt
- ✓ Explore Criticism, interpretation
