Merriam-Webster defines “rape” in several definitions. However, we will focus on the most well-publicized definitions as this: a carrying away by force; unlawful intercourse with a woman without her consent, and chiefly by force or deception.
Merriam-Webster’s dictionary may decide to change the gender of some of the victims of this terrible act. Some readers of this article might say, “I don’t need you to tell me what rape is. I know what it is.”
Some may apply this to a personal bad life-changing experience. Others might say, “Yes, I know what it is and it’s really bad and I’m glad I haven’t had to experience it.”
As things are today, we hear of this horrible act being exercised on men, women, and all genders. It is a deeply moral trespass. It is because of this commonality we can use this word to apply to so many scenarios. It occurs all too often and all too many times. It is so heinous until it’s clearly in the category of a crime.
Even the victim is shamed and disgraced to the extent the victim will not even want to come forth and admit it or confront it for the terribleness of it. Thereby, not coming forth and exposing it to reality. It’s so disgraceful. One might want to just hide it in the crevices of their mind as an attempt to think nothing as awful as this can be exposed or “who will believe me.”
In the process of writing this article, we can consider other ways rape may occur. We will look at “The Rape of Tamar.” We can look into how things at least for this purpose can be reviewed during the period 941-934 B.C. when Tamar was a virgin. Her name meaning interpreted “palm tree” in Hebrew. She was the daughter of David and Maachah. She is half-sister to Amnon, one of King David’s sons.
In the Old Testament history, this Tamar is one of three remarkable women. This article is about that Tamar. Tamar was extraordinarily beautiful and Absalom, her brother, was extraordinarily handsome. Again, we mark this trespass occurred against this young, beautiful virgin at the time of this unfortunate event. Tamar being a virgin under the laws and restrictions of that time adds more to the meaning and consequences of this event. The name Tamar is also a town in the area near Judah.
The explanation of names is important so that as you read the Bible it might help explain our reading. I will attempt to look at the different things that happened before her rape. Part 2 will be forthcoming.
Thanks for reading! Jeanette Grattan Parker is the founder-superintendent of Today’s Fresh Start Charter School, 4514 Crenshaw Boulevard, L.A. 90043, 323-293-9826, www.todaysfreshstart.org, (Ask Dr. Jeanette TM) “Inquiring Minds Want to Know.” All articles are copyright. All rights reserved © Errors? Or Questions? Please let me know. Join Sundays for music and message at 11:30 a.m. by calling (712) 775-8971, code 266751. References: The Holy Bible. Don’t stop praying and hoping. “Today is another great day to do good and be successful.”
