Biblical Seductions retells six compelling stories in which women of the Bible become heroines as a direct result of their audacious acts. These stories are often skipped or censored because of their disturbing and provocative subject matter. First- and fiftieth-time readers alike will be mesmerized by this interweaving of Bible and legend which entertains, reflects and reproves. Through Rapoport's deft storytelling, readers revisit the story of Lot's daughters, who seduce their father in a mountain cave and bear his sons. The tale of Dinah, who is abducted and raped by Shechem, the local prince. The drama of Tamar, who disguises herself and seduces her father-in-law. The story of King David's lust for Batsheva, wife of his prized officer, and of the king's plot to murder her husband so he can wed her. The tragic account of Princess Tamar, Daughter of King David, who is lured, trapped and raped by her half-brother, Amnon, sparking vengeful fratricide and a civil war. Finally, readers encounter the Moabite widow, Ruth, who seduces Boaz, a tribal leader, and becomes great-grandmother of King David. In Rapoport's skilled hands these transformative stories become accessible and relevant, and the women in them unforgettable.
2011 National Jewish Book Award Finalist