Ruby Namdar on the much-ignored tragic elements of Hannah’s story “Tear” by Gideon van der Stelt Tradition reads the tale of Hannah, which includes her struggle with rival-wife Peninah and the miraculous birth of her son Samuel, as a victorious tale, celebrating the triumph of piety and faith. Few commentators, ancient or modern, pay attention
Yehuda Hyman on how he ended up dancing for his mother Sara Sara Guver Hyman We are gathered around the table at the LABA House of Study reading from the Book of Samuel: the heroine, Hannah can’t get pregnant, she pours her heart out to G-d* (see below). G-d hears Hannah’s prayers, promises
Brooke Berman on the ongoing meditation of mothers “Hotel Room” by Edward Hopper I am writing this from a plane to Aspen, on my way to premiere my first film, a digital short, at a festival. It is a dream come true. And yet I spent the morning in tears because in pursuing this dream,
Elissa Strauss on the inescapable and escapable aspects of motherhood “The Young Mother” Mary Cassatt 10 and she was in bitterness of soul–and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. 11 And she vowed a vow, and said: ‘O LORD of hosts, if Thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of Thy handmaid, and remember
Mirta Kupferminc explains the inspiration behind ‘Eve: Chair of All Mothers’