How does a writers strike work?

I’m totally lost here. I know why they are striking and agree that they should probably make more money. But….Do the writers get to keep their jobs even though they’re not doing their job? I’m not part of a Union, but if I’m dissatisfied about my job and I don’t show up, they fire me or I find a new job. Why can’t the shows just hire new people? I’m sure there are writers out there who don’t have jobs and would love to work for Leno or any of these other shows no matter how much money they make. This brings up another question, do these writers get paid while they are striking? Please forgive my ignorance, but this just doesn’t make since to me.