Stories of Biblical Mothers: Maternal Power in the Hebrew Bible

(Paperback)

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Stories of Biblical Mothers offers a new look at an often unnoticed group of women in the Hebrew Bible: the biblical mothers. The author's insightful analysis gives evidence that women of the Bible are able to obtain domestic and public influence through their status as mothers. This work reassesses the position of the biblical woman, and acknowledges that while marginalized, nevertheless as a mother she is both honored and powerful. Author Leila Leah Bronner adds to the ongoing conversation about the role and place of women in the Bible, and inspires further reflection on the biblical mother.

Reviews

Exploring images...of motherhood...in the Bible and beyond, Leila Bronner offers an array of intriguing insights and connections to all who are interested in feminist readings... -- Angela Bauer, Episcopal Divinity School
As [Bronner] rightly says, whereas mothers and motherhood are the most dominant social function attributed to women in the Hebrew Bible, this subject has rarely been treated in a consistent fashion beyond generalities. Here the whole spectrum of narratives relating to mothers - universal, national, royal, wise, mothers to daughters, metaphorical, unconventional, even the maternal roles of the Hebrew Godare systematically described and analysed. -- Athalya Brenner, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Leila Leah Bronner has produced a most readable synthetic study The society may have been patriarchal, but the mother wielded much influence. Alongside accounts of the matriarchs, queens and wise women are presentations of mothers and daughters, metaphorical and unconventional mothers, and even a stab at the motherly role of God. The book is a good read. -- Bezalel Porten, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
This very readable book will be of interest to a wide readership. It is highly recommended. * The Bible Today *

Author Bio

Leila Leah Bronner, Ph.D., formerly Professor of Bible and Religious Studies at Witwatersrand University, Johannesburg, South Africa, has also been associated with various American universities.