Jeroboam's Wife

Book excerpt: Much has been written about prominent women of the Bible such as Sarah, Ruth, and Esther. But little attention has been paid to the obscure or unnamed women of the Old Testament whose words are not recorded. Yet even while mute, these women often played critical roles in the unfolding of God’s plan, at times signaling the emergence of great events. In Jeroboam’s Wife, Robin Gallaher Branch introduces seven of these obscure yet noteworthy women and girls. Through her careful examination of the literary contours of the biblical narratives, she highlights their unique challenges and indelible contributions. Drawing from contemporary biblical, psychological, and sociological scholarship, Branch brings these women and their stories to life in fresh ways. Thoughtful questions for personal reflection or group discussion help contemporary readers ponder how these women’s lives are still relevant.