Telling Terror in Judges 19

This book provides a reparative reading of the Levite’s concubine in Judges 19, addressing its relevance to modern rape culture and women's agency.

The book Telling Terror in Judges 19 delves into a critical analysis of the harrowing narrative surrounding the Levite’s concubine, a story that has often been overshadowed by its grim themes. The author advocates for a 'reparative reading' approach, which seeks to uncover the underlying implications of the text in relation to contemporary issues, particularly those surrounding modern rape culture. By doing so, the book aims to shed light on the complexities of the female experience within the narrative and challenge traditional interpretations that have historically marginalized women's voices.

Historically, the narrative has served as a cautionary tale, warning young women about societal expectations and appropriate behavior. However, many male commentators have overlooked the woman's suffering, instead focusing on themes that ignore her agency and pain. In contrast, feminist critics have worked to reinsert the woman into the story, employing a hermeneutics of suspicion to reveal the deeper injustices present in the text. Telling Terror in Judges 19 engages with these feminist perspectives, particularly highlighting the contributions of notable scholars like Bal, Exum, and Trible.

In its final chapter, the book thoughtfully contrasts the ancient story with elements of modern rape culture, illustrating how the themes resonate across time. By paying attention to the pilegesh’s moral and marital agency, as well as her voice, the author advocates for a more nuanced understanding of the text that acknowledges the historical and ongoing struggles faced by women. This book ultimately serves as both a scholarly examination and a call to action for readers to reconsider the narratives that shape their understanding of gender and power dynamics.