Description
In different ways, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all trace their beginnings to Abraham. His wives, Hagar and Sarah, despite the fact that also pivotal within the story, have received far less attention. On this book, alternatively, noted Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scholars center of attention on Hagar, Sarah, and their children, from Ishmael and Isaac to their many descendents during the centuries.
Moving from ancient and medieval sources to up to date appropriations of the Sarah and Hagar story, the authors begin with an overview of the three religions–from their scriptural beginnings to their up to date questions. They then explore how the story was once developed after its canonization, in rabbinic interpretations, within the stories of Islam, and within the teachings of the early church fathers. In addition they present up to date womanist and feminist perspectives. Timely, relevant, and provocative, this book provides an entree into interreligious discussion and figuring out.