Strong Women in the Bible.

Myriam, prophetess, poetess and leader.

The daughters of Zelophehad: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
They demanded the inheritance of their father, in protest against the giving of inheritance to men only. The motivation of these women is beyond finances- it is the demand to be treated equally.

Esther/ Hadassah
Next week is Purim and Shushan Purim (because Purim in Jerusalem is on a different day), the Feast of Esther (Hadassah).
From foreign captive, Miss Persia, to spouse/ concubine/ mistress of the Persian king-
to a courageous woman, confident of God’s guidance.

There are more examples of strong and faithful women: Shifra and Puah, Deborah, Yael, Ruth, Mary of Magdala and Virgin Mary.

They all cared more about doing God’s will than obeying cultural restrictions and/or to the patriarchy.

Tikkun Olam (making the world whole, repairing the world)
Let these courageous women be our inspiration to become the women that God intends us to be, each of us in her own special way: dignified, honest and wise, talented and faithful, creative and beautiful, a source of love and compassion.
God created us unique, and we are called to change the world (tikkun olam).
May we grow in faith and courage and be an example for the coming generations of women.

Happy International Women’s Day
to all my sisters near and far.