444 - Far More Precious Than Jewels: Perspectives on Biblical Women

Far More Precious Than Jewels: Perspectives on Biblical Women
By Katheryn Pfisterer Darr
Louisville, Westminster/John Knox Press, 1991. 211 pp. $15.95.

The main value of Darr's book may be her use of the narratives about four controversial female figures to help guide the reader through the maze of historical and contemporary approaches to biblical interpretation, accompanied by an excellent bibliography. Her opening chapter provides a clear and accessible summary of the contributions of historical-critical scholars, ancient and modem rabbis, and the diverse work of feminists. In subsequent chapters, she places these various "voices" in conversation with one another in order to illuminate different facets of the rich textual portrayals of Ruth, Sarah, Hagar, and Esther. Seeing excerpts of commentaries side by side also highlights the contrast, even conflict, between various critical perspectives and their respective agendas. Darr allows these to "be," confident that in spite of themselves, the biblical authors and interpreters throughout the ages have

446 - Far More Precious Than Jewels: Perspectives on Biblical Women

borne witness to the enduring strength and centrality of the women they have at times sought to silence.

Carol J. Cook
Princeton Theological Seminary
Princeton, NJ.