How come the Bible is used to justify domestic abuse? This book aims to debunk the myths which prevent women from getting out of harm's way.
Helen Paynter Libri
Do you find the violence in the Old Testament a problem?Does it get in the way of reading the Bible - and of faith itself?While acknowledging that there are no easy answers, in God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?, Helen Paynter faces the questions head-on and offers a fresh, accessible approach to a significant issue. For all those seeking to engage with the Bible and gain confidence in the God it portrays, she provides tools for reading and interpreting biblical texts, and points to ways of dealing with the overall trajectories of violence.
The book delves into a reparative reading of the harrowing narrative of the Levite's concubine in Judges 19, emphasizing the woman's moral agency and voice often overlooked by traditional interpretations. It critiques historical and contemporary commentaries that diminish her suffering, particularly from a male perspective, while highlighting feminist critiques that seek to restore her significance. The final chapter draws parallels between the ancient text and modern rape culture, offering insights into how this story can inform current discussions on gender and violence.
Helen Paynter delves into the complexities of human violence as depicted in the Bible, examining its implications for contemporary Christian thought and action. By analyzing scriptural narratives, she challenges readers to reflect on the moral and ethical responsibilities that arise from these texts, encouraging a deeper understanding of faith in the context of violence.