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The Women of the Bible Speak
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
The women of the Bible lived timeless stories—by examining them, we can understand what it means to be a woman of faith.
People unfamiliar with Scripture often assume that women play a small, secondary role in the Bible. But in fact, they were central figures in numerous Biblical tales. It was Queen Esther’s bravery at a vital point in history which saved her entire people. The Bible contains warriors like Jael, judges like Deborah, and prophets like Miriam. The first person to witness Jesus’ resurrection was Mary Magdalene, who promptly became the first Christian evangelist, eager to share the news which would change the world forever.
In The Women of the Bible Speak, Fox News Channel's Shannon Bream opens up the lives of sixteen of these Biblical women, arranging them into pairs and contrasting their journeys. In pairing their stories, Shannon helps us reflect not only on the meaning of each individual’s life, but on how they relate to each other and to us.
From the shepherdesses of ancient Israel who helped raise the future leaders of the people of God, to the courageous early Christians, the narrative of the Bible offers us many vivid and fascinating female characters. In their lives we can see common struggles to resist bitterness, despair, and pride, and to instead find their true selves in faith, hope, and love. In studying these heroes of the faith, we can find wisdom and warnings for how to better navigate our own faith journeys.
The Women of the Bible Speak outlines the lessons we can take from the valor of Esther, the hope of Hannah, the audacity of Rahab, and the faith of Mary. In broadening each woman’s individual story, Shannon offers us a deeper understanding of each, and wisdom and insights that can transform our own lives today.
The women of the Bible lived timeless stories—by examining them, we can understand what it means to be a woman of faith.
People unfamiliar with Scripture often assume that women play a small, secondary role in the Bible. But in fact, they were central figures in numerous Biblical tales. It was Queen Esther’s bravery at a vital point in history which saved her entire people. The Bible contains warriors like Jael, judges like Deborah, and prophets like Miriam. The first person to witness Jesus’ resurrection was Mary Magdalene, who promptly became the first Christian evangelist, eager to share the news which would change the world forever.
In The Women of the Bible Speak, Fox News Channel's Shannon Bream opens up the lives of sixteen of these Biblical women, arranging them into pairs and contrasting their journeys. In pairing their stories, Shannon helps us reflect not only on the meaning of each individual’s life, but on how they relate to each other and to us.
From the shepherdesses of ancient Israel who helped raise the future leaders of the people of God, to the courageous early Christians, the narrative of the Bible offers us many vivid and fascinating female characters. In their lives we can see common struggles to resist bitterness, despair, and pride, and to instead find their true selves in faith, hope, and love. In studying these heroes of the faith, we can find wisdom and warnings for how to better navigate our own faith journeys.
The Women of the Bible Speak outlines the lessons we can take from the valor of Esther, the hope of Hannah, the audacity of Rahab, and the faith of Mary. In broadening each woman’s individual story, Shannon offers us a deeper understanding of each, and wisdom and insights that can transform our own lives today.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
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October 27, 2022
This new release is a timely rebuke to racism and sexism as well as a unifier--greatly needed in these times of uncertainty and division. Rooted and grounded in Scripture, the lives and times of sixteen women (Tamar, Rachel, Miriam, Hannah, Esther, Mary, Martha, and more) are examined as well as a number of nameless, notables (the woman at the well, the widow of Nain, etc). Included at the end of each chapter are thought-provoking study questions. Some might assume this would be an ideal book for a women's Bible study. No, I say it would be even better for couples. How many times have we as women studied the lives of men like Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, John, Paul, etc. in our meetings? God has given us the whole of Scripture to show us His story for mankind. We should be studying all of it. There is much for all of us to learn from and apply to our lives in these stories. As Jesus himself reminds us in John 5:39-40: 'These are they that speak of me.'
If you have enjoyed this title from Shannon Bream, there is another title that got released in 2022: The Mothers and Daughters of the Bible Speak: Lessons on Faith from Nine Biblical Families. Also a 5-star read in my opinion.
If you have enjoyed this title from Shannon Bream, there is another title that got released in 2022: The Mothers and Daughters of the Bible Speak: Lessons on Faith from Nine Biblical Families. Also a 5-star read in my opinion.
March 30, 2021
Look with fresh eyes at the stories you’ve known since childhood - you’ll rejoice at the experience!
Shannon Bream has compiled a collection of paired biographical sketches that span the entirety of the Holy Bible, from Genesis thru Christ’s resurrection. By taking two women and partnering them in a chapter together, we get an opportunity to compare and contrast their natures and the way they respond in a given situation.
Each chapter is divided into 3 parts: one part for each of the subjects and the last part is 4-5 questions designed to summarize the study, propose areas for further tho’t or investigation and deepen your faith. There’s no accusation or preaching just solid biblical, inductive study principles.
Shannon has an engaging style that made me want to keep reading. Facts are presented, without being dry, and the information is relative for today’s people. The chapters aren’t overly long and can be broken down into 2 or 3 parts as your schedule permits. If you’re looking for a fresh Bible study, this would make a great one and could be used for personal or group study.
A breath of fresh air and encouragement for one and all📚
Shannon Bream has compiled a collection of paired biographical sketches that span the entirety of the Holy Bible, from Genesis thru Christ’s resurrection. By taking two women and partnering them in a chapter together, we get an opportunity to compare and contrast their natures and the way they respond in a given situation.
Each chapter is divided into 3 parts: one part for each of the subjects and the last part is 4-5 questions designed to summarize the study, propose areas for further tho’t or investigation and deepen your faith. There’s no accusation or preaching just solid biblical, inductive study principles.
Shannon has an engaging style that made me want to keep reading. Facts are presented, without being dry, and the information is relative for today’s people. The chapters aren’t overly long and can be broken down into 2 or 3 parts as your schedule permits. If you’re looking for a fresh Bible study, this would make a great one and could be used for personal or group study.
A breath of fresh air and encouragement for one and all📚
June 13, 2021
This is Nonfiction. I really thought I'd love this one given the title. I kind of feel bad giving this only 2 stars but it was just "okay" for me. I did like that the narration was done by the author. She sounded personal....opinionated, but personal.
I am by no means a scholar, of any sort, when it comes to the bible, but this had a definite Wikipedia feel to it. Seriously...just google Mary Magdalene like I did...just to compare. Lots of facts. Maybe after many decades of Sunday school certain bible stories and biblical history actually stuck in my memory. I don't know. All I can say is that this one didn't resonate with me. I guess I was looking for more...especially after the title reeled me in. Perhaps my expectations were too high because I ended up being a little disappointed with this one, so 2 stars.
I am by no means a scholar, of any sort, when it comes to the bible, but this had a definite Wikipedia feel to it. Seriously...just google Mary Magdalene like I did...just to compare. Lots of facts. Maybe after many decades of Sunday school certain bible stories and biblical history actually stuck in my memory. I don't know. All I can say is that this one didn't resonate with me. I guess I was looking for more...especially after the title reeled me in. Perhaps my expectations were too high because I ended up being a little disappointed with this one, so 2 stars.
March 16, 2022
I read “Women of the Bible” by Ann Spangler and thought it was great. I saw this book “The Women of the Bible Speak” and was hoping it would be another great read. After I got it, I realized it was a “Fox News” book which I must admit I was disappointed about (Note to self, pay better attention). Shannon offers a lot of her opinions and interpretation of the Bible stories. The layout was a little strange, as it’s not set up as a Bible Study book, yet each chapter ends with Study Questions. Glad I read it, just not my favorite.
August 12, 2021
This was one of my favorite Christian living / Christian non-fiction books! It seems like so many Christian books these days are too focused on the self instead of on Jesus. This book is just the opposite! This book dives right into the stories of women in the Bible and focuses on their interactions with Jesus. At the end of each chapter there are study questions that help you dig deeper and takeaways to apply in our own lives. Highly recommend for a study group or just for yourself!
August 31, 2023
This is wonderful for digging deeper into the women of the bible! Very thought provoking and really helps to grow your understanding. This book makes it easy to relate to the woman of the bible.
January 20, 2023
A while back, I remember reading an article where a certain female celebrity said she was raised in the Christian faith but fell away because "there were no strong women in the Bible." I wanted to tell her to A) actually read the Bible because if she thinks that then she either hasn't read it for herself, wasn't paying any attention when she did, or was trying to assert modern mentalities onto the cultures of Biblical times, which was very different than how we live our lives today. And B) Give her a book like this one that puts the spotlight on 16 different women who appear in the Bible, named and unnamed, and uses what we're told in the Bible as well as accurate historical context to show the reader what their lives were like and exactly how strong and valuable to God each of these women really were. Yes, even when the fallible human men in their lives and culture treated them otherwise.
I thought Shannon Bream did a solid job writing this book. Rather than trying to assert her own opinion or any modern mentalities on these women she stuck firmly to the biblical narrative and gave each biblical passage she referenced historical context for any readers who might not know what the culture was like during the times in which these women lived. I know a lot of this historical context myself, but still learned a few things here and there when she brought up details I didn't previously know or may have forgotten.
I especially enjoyed the section of the book that dealt with the women with whom Jesus interacted directly during His time on earth. There are those in modern-day culture who falsely believe that Christianity doesn't value women as much as men, but that couldn't be further from the truth. All you have to do is look at how Jesus treated women. He went completely against the culture of His day, drawing attention to and valuing women who were overlooked or rejected by society, from prostitutes to widows. He also invited women into environments where they otherwise weren't supposed to be, like allowing Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, to learn at His feet among the disciples. Things like that simply weren't done back then, but Jesus wasn't limited by human rules. He created us all and He loves us all, and this book portrays that beautifully.
I highly recommend this book for Christians old and young, new and long-time believers, and non-believers who want to know the truth about the role of women in Christianity and the Bible.
Content Advisory:
None. This book is written for adults, so young children probably wouldn't comprehend it all yet, but I'd say that if an older Middle School age kid is reading and understanding the Bible and expresses interest in this book, they could easily handle it. It is definitely completely appropriate for teens, too.
I thought Shannon Bream did a solid job writing this book. Rather than trying to assert her own opinion or any modern mentalities on these women she stuck firmly to the biblical narrative and gave each biblical passage she referenced historical context for any readers who might not know what the culture was like during the times in which these women lived. I know a lot of this historical context myself, but still learned a few things here and there when she brought up details I didn't previously know or may have forgotten.
I especially enjoyed the section of the book that dealt with the women with whom Jesus interacted directly during His time on earth. There are those in modern-day culture who falsely believe that Christianity doesn't value women as much as men, but that couldn't be further from the truth. All you have to do is look at how Jesus treated women. He went completely against the culture of His day, drawing attention to and valuing women who were overlooked or rejected by society, from prostitutes to widows. He also invited women into environments where they otherwise weren't supposed to be, like allowing Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, to learn at His feet among the disciples. Things like that simply weren't done back then, but Jesus wasn't limited by human rules. He created us all and He loves us all, and this book portrays that beautifully.
I highly recommend this book for Christians old and young, new and long-time believers, and non-believers who want to know the truth about the role of women in Christianity and the Bible.
Content Advisory:
None. This book is written for adults, so young children probably wouldn't comprehend it all yet, but I'd say that if an older Middle School age kid is reading and understanding the Bible and expresses interest in this book, they could easily handle it. It is definitely completely appropriate for teens, too.
March 1, 2022
This book has a funny backstory of getting into my hands but I will spare you.:) It was everything I hoped it would be. It was stocked full of stories I've heard and read my whole life. Only now, fleshed out with spiritual, biblical, and historical details I never knew of.
It helped me personally and gave me new favorite Bible characters. This book made THIS woman, desire to follow God deeper. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend it.
It helped me personally and gave me new favorite Bible characters. This book made THIS woman, desire to follow God deeper. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend it.
July 27, 2021
I thought this sounded like an interesting book, but when I got the book and saw the "Fox New Books" label I almost didn't read it. But, I figured I would give it a try. Shannon Bream is a Fox News anchor and chief legal correspondent, but nowhere does she give any theological or Biblical background. Not that you have to be a Bible scholar to write a book, but there didn't seem to be any deep theological work or research here. If you grew up in church you likely know all the stories in this book and in my opinion there wasn't much else given other than pairing up women from the Bible with similar stories/situations. Christianity has sadly often used the Bible to subjugate women, so this could be a good resource for a new Believer to show just how valued women are by God and how Jesus really challenged the patriarchal norm of His day in how He treated women. But, for me there was no new information or insight with this book.
I did like a couple quotes though:
"Again and again, the Bible presents us with the struggle over infertility...For women of the Bible, fertility meant more than just the love of a child. It meant more than just a way for a woman to gain security and status in the world. Fertility was often viewed as divine favor itself. Some believed that to bear a child was to wear a mark of God's love, and to be barren was therefore a mark of God's displeasure. But it's important to note that from the moment God creates Eve, she is a person of value because she is created in His very image. In our Heavenly Father's eyes, we as women are treasured and honored wholly and apart from the gift of motherhood." (p. 17)
"To us, Mary's studying at Jesus's feet might seem a natural and even touching picture. But to a first-century Jew, this would have been a deeply shocking image. Mary was doing three unconventional things: she was engaging in formal biblical learning; she was in close and intimate physical proximity to a rabbi; and she was seated in a group of men. All these were taboo in her culture. By welcoming her to sit there, Jesus was violating every cultural norm that governed how women should behave, especially in their relationship to learning and to men." (p. 155)
I did like a couple quotes though:
"Again and again, the Bible presents us with the struggle over infertility...For women of the Bible, fertility meant more than just the love of a child. It meant more than just a way for a woman to gain security and status in the world. Fertility was often viewed as divine favor itself. Some believed that to bear a child was to wear a mark of God's love, and to be barren was therefore a mark of God's displeasure. But it's important to note that from the moment God creates Eve, she is a person of value because she is created in His very image. In our Heavenly Father's eyes, we as women are treasured and honored wholly and apart from the gift of motherhood." (p. 17)
"To us, Mary's studying at Jesus's feet might seem a natural and even touching picture. But to a first-century Jew, this would have been a deeply shocking image. Mary was doing three unconventional things: she was engaging in formal biblical learning; she was in close and intimate physical proximity to a rabbi; and she was seated in a group of men. All these were taboo in her culture. By welcoming her to sit there, Jesus was violating every cultural norm that governed how women should behave, especially in their relationship to learning and to men." (p. 155)
June 2, 2021
I used The Women of the Bible Speaks as a devotional. It can be used for one person or in a small group. Throughout each chapter/section of the book, two women from the Bible are compared and contrasted. Some of these women are prominent while others are often a foot note. I like how thought provoking and inspiring each woman is. At times I had the, “I hadn’t thought of it that way” moment. I also appreciate that it includes where the scriptures are found and especially how easy it was to read. Regardless of how far one is along in their faith, this book will teach, build and encourage. For an added bonus, there are questions after each section that can be used personally or for small groups.
April 4, 2021
What a beautiful read, I could almost hear Shannon Bream’s voice as I was reading. I have read many books about women of the Bible and you learn something new each time, women have always played an important part in our history and continue to be a major player. Great reading it right before Easter...
June 6, 2021
Interesting deep dive into the stories of women in the Bible. I appreciated the historical context and analysis.
January 17, 2025
A compiled look at women of the Bible. Each section is a pair of women whose stories are intertwined or resonant theme. Each chapter is a recap of the Bible story, life application, and a couple of study questions. Narrated by author Shannon Bream.
October 1, 2021
I really liked the pairing and contrasting throughout this book. Some of the pairs were obvious, while others took me a minute, diving into the word and looking for the connection between the women. Most readers praise this for it's timeliness and place it in the feminist category, and I agree to a point. However, I think this book is celebrating the strength and courage of women in the feminine way, showing us we are just as valued. Raising up women and opening our eyes to see we should embrace our femininity, and understand we are called to do things men cannot. Man and Woman, equal but different. And wonderfully designed so.
I read another review where a reader mentioned this would not only be a great women's Bible study book, but even better, a COUPLES Bible study. And I wholeheartedly agree. I think it's just as important for men, as women, to hear how precious, courageous, tough, vulnerable, and wise us females can be. Jesus loves and respects us, too. He calls us, too.
I wish more male preachers would share that message.
I read another review where a reader mentioned this would not only be a great women's Bible study book, but even better, a COUPLES Bible study. And I wholeheartedly agree. I think it's just as important for men, as women, to hear how precious, courageous, tough, vulnerable, and wise us females can be. Jesus loves and respects us, too. He calls us, too.
I wish more male preachers would share that message.
April 20, 2022
Book was more of an overview or retelling of the stories of women in the Bible more than it was insightful or spiritual.
March 17, 2023
This was a great read to get to know some of the women of the Bible better. I even gained newer and deeper insight into some of the women I’ve studied deeper in the past. I really enjoyed how the author told two women’s stories side-by-side in each chapter who had similar strengths. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to know some of these Bible stories a little better.
August 8, 2021
I've read this slowly, savored it as part of a near daily devotional. It is accessible, contemplative and focused on what the women in the Bible have to teach us.
Many of these scenarios have more depth than I anticipated, and it forced me to think of the stories and characters of the Bible in entirely new ways.
Highly recommend either for Christians or those studying the Bible as literature, as this provides a more in depth character analysis of women than typically seen.
Many of these scenarios have more depth than I anticipated, and it forced me to think of the stories and characters of the Bible in entirely new ways.
Highly recommend either for Christians or those studying the Bible as literature, as this provides a more in depth character analysis of women than typically seen.
March 14, 2024
Christianity is a feminist religion. God has purpose and calling for women when we were not valued, when our lives were treated as property and all through out the Bible you see that God knew women, called them to be divinely chosen and worked through them. What a wonderful study guide of the amazing women of the Bible.
May 17, 2022
I’m currently reading The Bible in a Year & this is an excellent companion read. Gives good & deeper insight into the women in the Bible’s stories.
October 5, 2022
I did this study with some close friends and I absolutely loved it. Shannon bream, the other of this study, really knows how to make a story impactful. She could take a a woman who didn’t even speak in the Bible and write a 10 devotional about her. This book is defiantly one of my favorite Bible study’s.
July 17, 2021
Shannon Bream takes us through the stories of 16 women in the Bible to establish their equality, value and purpose in God’s kingdom. These short chapters affirm women in this life, reminding us that throughout history, God has valued women as part of His plan for salvation.
There’s nothing real deep about these lessons, but it was a sweet and inspiring summer devotional.
There’s nothing real deep about these lessons, but it was a sweet and inspiring summer devotional.
September 2, 2024
I've been a believer for many years and have read the Bible stories of these women more than a few times, but I learned new insights into their stories in this book. My women's small group did it as a study, reading and discussing each chapter, each pair of women, each week. It was such a lovely reminder of how much God loves us women, how He sees us and has plans for our lives.
February 6, 2024
I love these books so much 4/5
March 6, 2022
Very insightful! I enjoyed it!
June 14, 2021
.
The Women of the Bible Speak:
the wisdom of 16 women and their lessons for today
By Shannon Bream
Published in 2021, about 250 pages.
Shannon is the evening news anchor for Fox News @ Night in DC and her book is number 1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list.
Overview:
The women of the Bible lived timeless stories—by examining them, we can understand what it means to be a woman of faith.
People unfamiliar with Scripture often assume that women play a small, secondary role in the Bible. But in fact, they were central figures in numerous Biblical tales. It was Queen Esther's bravery at a vital point in history which saved her entire people. The Bible contains warriors like Jael, judges like Deborah, and prophets like Miriam. The first person to witness Jesus' resurrection was Mary Magdalene, who promptly became the first Christian evangelist...
Shannon...opens up the lives of sixteen of these Biblical women, arranging them into pairs and contrasting their journeys. In pairing their stories, [she] helps us reflect not only on the meaning of each individual's life, but on how they relate to each other and to us...
The Women of the Bible Speak outlines the lessons we can take from the valor of Esther, the hope of Hannah, the audacity of Rahab, and the faith of Mary. In broadening each woman's individual story, Shannon offers us a deeper understanding of each, and wisdom and insights that can transform our own lives today.
.
Sarah and Hagar
Rachel and Leah
Tamar and Ruth
Deborah and Jael
Hannah and Miriam
Esther and Rahab
Mary and Martha
Mary, the mother of Jesus and Mary Magdalene
And the last chapter: Jesus and the Women
The book begins with the unnamed woman in the gospel of Mark. She is suffering from a chronic illness and was healed when she touched Jesus's cloak.
Each chapter provides the Bible references (chapter and verse) where you can find the details for each women. In addition to the historical context, Shannon gives her own commentary on the lives of these women and lessons the reader could apply to their own life today. After each chapter there are study questions provided which could be answered individually or for a study group.
..
.
The Women of the Bible Speak:
the wisdom of 16 women and their lessons for today
By Shannon Bream
Published in 2021, about 250 pages.
Shannon is the evening news anchor for Fox News @ Night in DC and her book is number 1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list.
Overview:
The women of the Bible lived timeless stories—by examining them, we can understand what it means to be a woman of faith.
People unfamiliar with Scripture often assume that women play a small, secondary role in the Bible. But in fact, they were central figures in numerous Biblical tales. It was Queen Esther's bravery at a vital point in history which saved her entire people. The Bible contains warriors like Jael, judges like Deborah, and prophets like Miriam. The first person to witness Jesus' resurrection was Mary Magdalene, who promptly became the first Christian evangelist...
Shannon...opens up the lives of sixteen of these Biblical women, arranging them into pairs and contrasting their journeys. In pairing their stories, [she] helps us reflect not only on the meaning of each individual's life, but on how they relate to each other and to us...
The Women of the Bible Speak outlines the lessons we can take from the valor of Esther, the hope of Hannah, the audacity of Rahab, and the faith of Mary. In broadening each woman's individual story, Shannon offers us a deeper understanding of each, and wisdom and insights that can transform our own lives today.
.
Sarah and Hagar
Rachel and Leah
Tamar and Ruth
Deborah and Jael
Hannah and Miriam
Esther and Rahab
Mary and Martha
Mary, the mother of Jesus and Mary Magdalene
And the last chapter: Jesus and the Women
The book begins with the unnamed woman in the gospel of Mark. She is suffering from a chronic illness and was healed when she touched Jesus's cloak.
Each chapter provides the Bible references (chapter and verse) where you can find the details for each women. In addition to the historical context, Shannon gives her own commentary on the lives of these women and lessons the reader could apply to their own life today. After each chapter there are study questions provided which could be answered individually or for a study group.
..
.
April 4, 2021
Filed under "my Nana made me read this book."
Honestly, it's not that this is a bad book. Bream's tone is conversational, her writing makes scripture super accessible. As a non-Christian, her retelling of these biblical stories was really useful.
But I would say this book was 75% retelling and 25% reaching.
Learning about their stories was definitely interesting. As just a retelling, it's an excellent book. But since the purpose was to dive into what their stories have for women today.. it comes up a little short. And it's not for the want of trying! Bream acknowledges the lack of context we have, and how little these women truly "speak." She lists the verses that these women are mentioned in, and given how long the Bible is, it's truly telling to see all of those verses so easily condensed to one line. It must have been a task to find just the bits and pieces, and I'll commend her for that.
To me, though, I don't think I really connected with what Bream was trying to say. I can't really draw a line between Hagar's cruel banishment from her home to a petty workplace fight. I really appreciated Sarah's story as it was to keeping faith for a child, and I appreciated Mary Magdalene's story of hope. Aside from that, though, I think Bream is really reaching. I couldn't really connect with the rest of them, because I think there's a lot of incongruence between those horrific circumstances and the circumstances of her audience (that of typically white, upper-middle class women).
As someone who's never really done a Bible study, what was more interesting was the line that connected the women. Only one of them had true agency, and that one woman was Deborah. The rest of them were bitter rivals over a man, or used as lessons for other men. Even the story of Tamar, as far as she went, was a lesson in humility for Judah.
What was far more revealing to me was the way that these women were used for storytelling purposes, and for purposes of establishing a moral point. I think when Bream is trying to point out messages of hope, resilience, and faith, she's doing exactly what the scripture is saying. But going beyond that and trying to liken the misery being the lesser-loved wife to an annoying person we have to deal with? It falls a little flat.
Honestly, it's not that this is a bad book. Bream's tone is conversational, her writing makes scripture super accessible. As a non-Christian, her retelling of these biblical stories was really useful.
But I would say this book was 75% retelling and 25% reaching.
Learning about their stories was definitely interesting. As just a retelling, it's an excellent book. But since the purpose was to dive into what their stories have for women today.. it comes up a little short. And it's not for the want of trying! Bream acknowledges the lack of context we have, and how little these women truly "speak." She lists the verses that these women are mentioned in, and given how long the Bible is, it's truly telling to see all of those verses so easily condensed to one line. It must have been a task to find just the bits and pieces, and I'll commend her for that.
To me, though, I don't think I really connected with what Bream was trying to say. I can't really draw a line between Hagar's cruel banishment from her home to a petty workplace fight. I really appreciated Sarah's story as it was to keeping faith for a child, and I appreciated Mary Magdalene's story of hope. Aside from that, though, I think Bream is really reaching. I couldn't really connect with the rest of them, because I think there's a lot of incongruence between those horrific circumstances and the circumstances of her audience (that of typically white, upper-middle class women).
As someone who's never really done a Bible study, what was more interesting was the line that connected the women. Only one of them had true agency, and that one woman was Deborah. The rest of them were bitter rivals over a man, or used as lessons for other men. Even the story of Tamar, as far as she went, was a lesson in humility for Judah.
What was far more revealing to me was the way that these women were used for storytelling purposes, and for purposes of establishing a moral point. I think when Bream is trying to point out messages of hope, resilience, and faith, she's doing exactly what the scripture is saying. But going beyond that and trying to liken the misery being the lesser-loved wife to an annoying person we have to deal with? It falls a little flat.
April 25, 2023
This book highlights some of the more fortunate women in the Bible. The first thing I noticed is how the author glosses over the poor treatment the women received at the hands of men, and several treated poorly at the hands of men of God.
This is a book about how not to treat women. Instead, it is presented as the voice of powerful women, which minimializes, and in some cases, romanticizes the abuse the women suffered in dire situations caused by the men around them that treated them like property.
I find the title irritating, as if these women are supposed to be the guiding light of women today: oppressed, submissive, and used for their sex organs by men who know what's best for them, and generally accepting of their position.
Instead of being a celebration of this, the author (and the church) needs to view these women as deserving of vengeance from the church.
The general dismissiveness towards women in the book masked as Godliness, reminds me of how the church dismisses women in the church to the point that stripping them of the right to control their sex organs is considered morality when in any other case it would be rape and criminal.
This is a book about how not to treat women. Instead, it is presented as the voice of powerful women, which minimializes, and in some cases, romanticizes the abuse the women suffered in dire situations caused by the men around them that treated them like property.
I find the title irritating, as if these women are supposed to be the guiding light of women today: oppressed, submissive, and used for their sex organs by men who know what's best for them, and generally accepting of their position.
Instead of being a celebration of this, the author (and the church) needs to view these women as deserving of vengeance from the church.
The general dismissiveness towards women in the book masked as Godliness, reminds me of how the church dismisses women in the church to the point that stripping them of the right to control their sex organs is considered morality when in any other case it would be rape and criminal.
May 4, 2021
So, I picked up this book in Costco two Fridays ago because I was intrigued that it was a Fox News book because what does that even mean. Come to find out, the author is a lawyer and writes and researches very well. She tells two stories of women in the Bible and shines a modern day light on what they went through and how we might glean something. There are also discussion/further research topics at the end of each section. I didn’t partake, and you would definitely need your Bible for those parts. Overall a good book and well written and well executed.
April 20, 2022
We read this as part of our church book club, and it was an excellent choice for Lent. Putting these stories in narrative form with many references made some of them very memorable, and there were several cases where one of us said, "I didn't know that." We liked the format, and found some of the questions at the end of each chapter to be pretty thought-provoking. I listened to the audiobook, but also had the eBook for backup.
April 17, 2021
I read this book Easter weekend. I loved it. I learned some new stories and was comforted by the women I already loved.
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