Rereading the Biblical Story of Sarah and Hagar: A Note for Interfaith Activists

Authors

  • Fachrizal Halim University of Saskatchewan

Keywords:

Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishmael, Isaac, documentary hypothesis

Abstract

This article examines the complex relationship between Sarah and Hagar in the book of Genesis chapters 16 and 21, with a focus on informing Muslim readers and interfaith activists. Drawing on the documentary hypothesis approach and insights from biblical scholars, the article aims to clarify the historical and cultural context of the story and challenge narrow interpretations that can lead to assumptions of theological or political supremacy. The article argues that a deeper understanding of the relationship between Sarah and Hagar in their social and political context can promote theological openness and facilitate the contemporary struggle for justice and interfaith relations.

References

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Frymer-Kensky, T. (1996). Sarah and Hagar. In B. Moyers (Ed.), Talking about Genesis: A Resource Guide (pp. 94-97). Doubleday.

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King, G. A. (2001). The Documentary Hypothesis. Journal of the Adventist Theological Society, 12 (1), 22-30.

Klein, J. M. (2008). Why Scholars Just Can't Stop Talking About Sarah and Hagar. https://www.usnews.com/news/religion/articles/2008/01/25/why-scholars-just-cant-stop-talking-about-sarah-and-hagar

Kuschel, K.-J. (1995). Abraham: Sign of Hope for Jews, Christians and Muslims (J. Bowden, Trans.). The Continuum Publishing Company.

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Taylor, C. (1994). The politics of recognition. In A. Gutmann (Ed.), Multiculturalism: Examining the politics of recognition (pp. 25-73). Princeton University Press.

Teubal, S. J. (1990). Hagar the Egyptian: The Lost Tradition of the Matriarchs. Harper and Row Publishers.

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Published

2024-07-01

How to Cite

Halim, F. (2024). Rereading the Biblical Story of Sarah and Hagar: A Note for Interfaith Activists. IIUM Journal of Religion and Civilisational Studies, 7(1), 21–31. Retrieved from https://journals.iium.edu.my/irkh/index.php/ijrcs/article/view/306