The Syrophenician Woman
The poem depicts a desperate mother, a Syrophenician woman, who seeks help from Jesus to heal her ailing daughter. She expresses her joy and hope as she approaches the prophet, believing that he can alleviate her child's suffering. Despite her fervent pleas, Jesus initially remains silent, seemingly ignoring her cries for help. Undeterred, the woman persists, kneeling in anguish and imploring him to save her child. Jesus responds by stating that his mission is primarily to the people of Israel, implying that his blessings are not meant for outsiders. The woman acknowledges this but argues that even the least deserving can receive scraps of mercy. Her unwavering faith and humility impress Jesus, who ultimately grants her request, affirming that her belief has led to her daughter's healing. The poem highlights themes of faith, perseverance, and the universality of compassion, illustrating how love and determination can transcend barriers. The woman's boldness in the face of rejection serves as a powerful testament to the strength of maternal love and the importance of faith in the pursuit of justice and healing.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1866 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, African American Literature · 275 words
First lines
Joy to my bosom! rest to my fear!
Judea's prophet draweth near!
Joy to my bosom! peace to my heart!
Sickness and sorrow before him depart!
What this Textopian page supports
The Syrophenician Woman is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1866 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Inspirational Literature, African American Literature, Feminist Literature, Narrative Poetry
- Length: 275 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The poem explores themes of faith, divine intervention, and the struggle for a miracle, central to religious poetry.
- Inspirational Literature — The work aims to inspire readers through the depiction of a mother's love and determination in seeking help for her child.
- African American Literature — Frances Ellen Watkins Harper is a significant figure in African American literature, and the poem reflects the cultural and social issues relevant to that community.
- Feminist Literature — The poem highlights the strength and agency of a woman in a patriarchal context, aligning with feminist themes.
Tags
Christianity · Feminism · Literary Fiction · Social Justice · Racism · Slavery · Abolitionist · African American Literature · 19th Century Literature · American Literature · Short Story Collection · Women's Rights