Female slave vs female slave: המאand החפש in the Hebrew Bible

Edward J. Bridge

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    Abstract

    This study of אָמָה and שִׁפְחָה shows that there is no inherent distinction in meaning between the two terms, due to the intertwining of context of use and text genre. Both are used for slave wives in Genesis, in legislation contexts, in deferential language by women, in property lists, and in relation to the master or mistress. Yet patterns of use occur. אָמָה predominates in legislation and marriage contexts; and שִׁפְחָה predominates in Genesis and when generally designating female slaves.
    Original languageEnglish
    Article number2
    Pages (from-to)1-22
    Number of pages22
    JournalJournal of Hebrew scriptures
    Volume12
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2012

    Bibliographical note

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