When Gender Varies: A Curious Case of Kere and Ketiv
When Gender Varies: A Curious Case of Kere and Ketiv
Parashat Chayei Sarah (Genesis 23:1–25:18)
This chapter presents the biblical female character, Rebekah, within the context of Masoretes' interpretation. The Masoretes are group of men who are engaged in a process of standardizing the Biblical text. They found that Rebekah was mentioned as na'ar (young man) in the readings of Parashat Chayei Sarah. This description is related to Rebekah's attributes as a strong and muscular, capable of drawing hundreds of gallons of water. She is socially talented in acting forwardly and independently. In addition, Rebekah is hospitable and sensitive to the needs of animals. As such, the Biblical text itself seems to approve of the blending of stereotypically masculine and feminine traits.
Keywords: Rebekah, Parashat Chayei, Masoretes, Biblical text, na'ar
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