ABSTRACT
Ideology explains why biblical writers have no specific word for rape. Ideology explains why they offer no concept of consent. Hebrew Bible narratives make sexual violence of all kinds “part of the way things are.” The Hebrew Bible depicts an honor society, one in which the performance of masculinity depends on continued demonstrations of power, strength, and virility. Dominant men cement their ties through sexual violence against other men too. Their most effective proof of superiority lies in shaming enemies sexually. Sexual violence proves authority, virility, and potency. The Hebrew Bible is hardly alone in presenting the modern reader with a rape culture.
