 Love, family expectations, and religion mix in 19th century Jerusalem. Jacob and Rebecca marry; he s a rabbi, she s dutiful and loving. But she has no children. Months become years. Although Jacob is content, his mother reminds everyone she is waiting for a grandson. After 15 years, Rebecca determines that Jacob must take an additional wife, the young and beautiful Sultana. Rebecca fasts and prays, and in a state of near ecstasy, persuades everyone involved and then arranges an elaborate wedding. However, Sultana does not conceive, and Rebecca watches helplessly as Jacob s affection shifts to Sultana. She s near madness and the household is in turmoil. What can Rebecca do now?