ing new life into the world, nurturing the newborn, and comforting the family with sacrificial love. It took the body of Mother Mary to give birth to the Son of God, Jesus Christ when He incarnated. Women are co-equal to men, created in God’s image. Yet the Bible also narrates the harrowing tales of women being raped, sacrificed, and silenced by others. To hear and respond to the pain-filled cries of women is to honour each one as a beloved child of God. These stories also give a glimpse of hope.
Consider the story of the rape of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13:1–9. Tamar is preyed upon by Amnon, King David’s son and her half-brother, heir to the throne. She has a name and even her wardrobe is described: “Now she was wearing a long robe with sleeves; for this is how the virgin daughters of the king were clothed in earlier times.” Tamar also has a voice, which she lifts in protest when Amnon forces himself on her. “No, my brother, do not force me; … as for me, where could I carry my shame?”
Tamar simply cooked food for her allegedly sick half-brother. Tamar speaks eloquently, urging Amnon to ask properly for her in marriage and foreseeing what lies ahead if Amnon continues his sexual assault. As Tamar predicts, Amnon is filled with contempt immediately after he rapes her. Her “good” brother, Absalom, advises her to keep silent about everything.
There are many Tamars in our society. Exploring these dynamics can help victims and survivors find their voices. We are sinners who need salvation by God’s grace from the outside of ourselves. We can’t save ourselves. Self-help programs do not change our fallen nature. What is your response when women are forcefully raped? Do we feel sorrowful for a time and then forget, or do we have a plan to empower women and ensure justice is meted out to lawbreakers?