In the narratives of Genesis and Judges in the Hebrew Bible, the position and nature of women is complex and multifaceted. While women are often portrayed as being subservient to men and subject to their authority, they are also depicted as having agency and exerting significant influence in their own right.
In Genesis, women are often portrayed as wives and mothers whose primary role is to bear children and provide support for their husbands. For example, Sarah is depicted as a faithful and obedient wife to Abraham, who is praised for her beauty and fertility. Similarly, Rebekah is chosen as a wife for Isaac because of her obedience and her ability to bear children.
At the same time, however, women in Genesis are also shown to be capable of making their own decisions and exerting their own influence. For example, Rebekah takes an active role in ensuring that Jacob receives his father's blessing over Esau. Additionally, Tamar uses her sexuality to trick Judah into fulfilling his obligations to her and providing her with a child.
In the book of Judges, women are often portrayed as being victimized by men, particularly in the context of warfare and conquest. For example, Jephthah sacrifices his daughter to fulfill a vow to God, and the Levite's concubine is raped and murdered by the men of Gibeah.
However, there are also examples of women in Judges who exhibit great strength and courage, such as Deborah, who serves as a judge and military leader, and Jael, who kills the Canaanite general Sisera.
Overall, the nature and position of women in Israelite narratives in Genesis and Judges is complex and multifaceted, with women being both subject to male authority and capable of exerting their own agency and influence.