The Hebrew Bible discloses women who are leaders, prophets, queens, midwives, harlots, mothers, widows etc. The author argues that they could be brave and risk their lives for others. Be they leaders of the community, judges, prophetesses, queens, wise women, mothers, widows etc. they all played a vital role in the history of Israel. Frequently, it is a woman who emerges in a time of crisis to lead and preserve Israel. Some are known while others are unknown; some are powerful, while others are powerless. But no matter what their individual personalities and contributions, their stories are often crucial to understand the history of Israel. It is true that they have not enjoyed a uniform status in the society; however, the Hebrew Bible does not neglect their importance and influence, and the invaluable contribution they have made. It is unfortunate to consider them as shadowy, subordinate figures in the society. Instead they were all protagonists in their own Sitz im Leben.

Article in AUC: Asian Journal of Religious Studies Sept-Oct 2020 65/5