In different ways, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all trace their beginnings to Abraham. His wives Hagar and
Sarah, though also pivotal in the story, have received far less attention. In this book, however, noted Jewish,
Christian, and Muslim scholars focus on Hagar, Sarah, and their children, from Ishmael and Isaac to their many
descendents through the centuries.
Moving from ancient and medieval sources to contemporary appropriations of the Sarah and Hagar story, the authors
begin, in part 1, with an overview of the three religions--from their scriptural beginnings to their contemporary
questions. Part 2, "Hagar and Sarah in Jewish, Christian, and Muslim Traditions," explores how the story
was developed after its canonization, in rabbinic interpretations, in the stories of Islam, and in the teachings
of the early church fathers. And part 3, "Continuing the Conversation with Hagar and Sarah," presents
contemporary womanist and feminist perspectives. Timely, relevant, and provocative, Hagar, Sarah, and Their Children
offers a reliable and insightful look into a scriptural text foundational to these three great religions, and more
important, it provides an entrée into interreligious discussion and understanding.