Women of the Bible Unite

Throughout the Bible there are stories which are as ever true-to-life today. They involve men and women who lived many years ago, yet there is nothing new in today’s headlines. It is fascinating to imagine these ancient tales as told by the women involved because the original authors were men writing in a men’s world.

Take seven women:

Noah’s daughter-in-law isn’t even named, yet her role as family-maker would have continued on board the ark. In the future Noah’s three sons would be the ancestors of the new races of the new world; but imagine if Noah hadn’t obeyed his God, and if his daughter-in-laws had refused to relocate to the ark?

Hagar was a trusted servant in the Abraham & Sarah household. Trouble ensued when Abraham and Sarah tried to speed up God’s promise of an heir to their large tribe. In the end they landed up with two potential heirs to the fortune and two women at each other’s throats.

Bathsheba always said that she had to obey the summons from King David; although it seems she put up little resistance as a married woman. But the crux of the matter was how they tried to cover up their affair and love-child. Lies and intrigue led to ensuring her husband would be killed in the name of service to his king and country. But would happiness follow?

The lady’s maid was so insignificant  that she too isn’t named although Abigail is an appropriate choice. She must have had a great belief in God to break the rules of protocol on more than one occasion – speaking without being asked to speak; yet she did and Naaman was cured but only after she said that he was less than heroic in his tantrum thinking he was above the people in another country – what mattered most to him – healing or pulling rank?  

Finally two sisters, Martha  and Mary. Typical sisters – at each other’s throats, yet fiercely protective. Martha was the mother figure, the big sister who kept the family together. The fact she accommodated large numbers during Jesus’ visits is testimony to her skills. Mary was the wild child, rescued by her sister and forgiven by Jesus. She probably assumed Martha would cope as always. Some say Martha was harshly treated but in the end it is written that she did listen and understand who Jesus was.