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Lot's Daughters

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Art: Representation of Biblical Women

For centuries, art has portrayed biblical women in ways that reflect society’s attitudes towards women and their role. Depictions of female biblical figures fluctuate according to historical and social perceptions. Jewish art often features heroic and worthy women who, through their courageous deeds, helped to triumph over Israel’s enemies.

Wife of Lot: Bible

Lot, his wife, and his daughters are urged to escape the violence in Sodom that ensues when the local people want to rape two visitors to Lot’s house. Lot and his family are told not to look back when they flee, but Lot’s wife does look back and is turned into a pillar of salt. This gripping narrative contains elements of folklore and provides an explanation for the salt formations along the Dead Sea.

Lot's Daughters: Midrash and Aggadah

In opposition to the biblical portrayal, the Rabbis turn the blame on Lot for his impregnation of his daughters. They argue that Lot exhibits selfish and harmful behavior throughout his life, while presenting a sympathetic analysis of the daughters that seems to stem from their ancestral connection to Ruth.

Daughters of Lot: Bible

When the men of Sodom demand sexual relations with two messengers from God, Lot offers his daughters instead. The daughters, however, escape with Lot and live in a cave after Sodom is destroyed. There they have relations with their father and give birth to his sons.

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