Continuing with the same verse, let's examine the cultural aspects.
There are many examples in the Bible where being barren was considered a stigma. Who can forget Sara giving Abraham her maid servant so she could have children through another. (Sort of like surrogate moms today.) Or Jacob's wife Rachel doing the same when she couldn't have a baby.
From the Almanac of Bible Facts:
'Children were considered a gift from God (Ps 127), and a big family was a sign of God's special blessing. A childless family was perceived as having displeased God in some way, and 'barren' women were looked on with disfavor, even ridicule.
Among Children, boys were valued most. In a male-dominated culture,boys were needed to carry on the family name and continue the work of the land. Girls were necessary workers, but considered less important.'(P142)
As you can see, understanding the verse also comes from knowing something of the culture.
The part mentioned in a previous post about standing in the way of God's plan, came from a preacher during a sermon given. Unfortunatly, no references can be given as the information on who, when and where the original information came from has been lost.
Putting all that can be learned together gives a fuller meaning to the verse. A barren woman finally had the promise of having a household of her own and having children would be delighted at her change in status, particularly if she produced a male heir.
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