A Study of Documentary Sources Relating to Women's Right to Divorce in Ancient Judea

Authors

  • Brittany Crockett

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/cons6896

Abstract

This paper examines the concept and treatment of divorce in ancient Judea as a historical reality rather than a theological issue, focusing particularly on the idea of the wife as the active party in the divorce. Did women in Judea have the right to initiate divorce? It seems the answer might have been yes. The implications of several key documentary sources, including various marriage and legal contracts relating to divorce are discussed. The paper concludes with a brief look at several scriptural precedents for divorce. Both the historical merit and historiographical problems with these ancient sources are addressed.

Author Biography

Brittany Crockett

Brittany Crockett is in the third year of her BA at the U of A, with a major in English and a minor in Classical Studies.  Although her main areas of interest lie far away in twentieth century literature, she has very much enjoyed her stay here in Ancient Palestine and would come back any time.

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Published

2009-11-29

How to Cite

Crockett, B. (2009). A Study of Documentary Sources Relating to Women’s Right to Divorce in Ancient Judea. Constellations, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.29173/cons6896

Issue

Section

Articles