Women in the Bible often face significant challenges related to their societal roles and expectations. In a male-dominated society, their primary identity and value are frequently linked to their ability to bear children. This focus on fertility highlights the cultural importance of lineage and inheritance.

What happens to the woman who is barren or loses her children? How does this affect her position and relationship with the world around her, including men, society, and God? What happens when she does eventually give birth? How does the role of motherhood, as opposed to her unique role as a woman, manifest itself?

The answer to these questions has ramifications not only to the unique personalities discussed in the book as well as to readers and learners. These stories are painful at times, uplifting at others, and yet resonate with all people, men and women alike.