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2 Samuel 3:2-5. "And sons were born to David at Hebron: his first-born was Amnon, of Ahinoam of Jezreel; and his second, Chileab, of Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur; and the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital; and the sixth, Ithream, of Eglah, David’s wife. These were born to David in Hebron."

 

That's a lot of baby mamas! Then, in the following verses, we learn of Saul's concubine, and the allegation that Abner, Saul's right hand man, has been with her (2 Samuel 3:7-8). Clearly, women and wives were thought of and treated very differently in those times.

 

The treatment of women is something I struggle with when reading the Bible, especially given what the Church now teaches about marriage, monogamy, and how spouses should treat each other. I think it is one of those things that God had to lead His people from slowly, like slavery, and I'm very grateful He did! 

 

Whenever I get uncomfortable about the treatment of women in the Bible, though, I just remember Mary. She is God's greatest creation, enjoying the highest place of honor. God knows how to treat women, even if we often don't.