The Role of Women in Judaism a
World religions shape not only social culture but also the view of women in society. An investigation of various cultures will reveal similarities and differences in the role women play in modern society. As religion has changed throughout the span of human life on earth so has the viewpoint of women in religion. When comparing Judaism to Christianity this transformation can be seen. Traditional views of Jewish women took on a two fold meaning. While women were regarded in a secondary subservient manner, they were still glorified as wives and mothers, which was considered her primary role. Many Jewish traditions revolved around he
Celibacy became a prevailing view among Christian theology. However some passages refer to women as subordinates of men. As a result by the second century the Church fathers developed a disparaging attitude about sexuality and women. The most influential book in Jewish tradition, The Talmud contributed to this line of thinking. Although exulted as a good wife and mother ancient Jewish women were viewed as second class to men. However this could also prove to be a source of great sadness and outcast. Even going as far as saying women were responsible for the sin of humanity. This book portrayed women as suspicious and conveyed many superstitions that encouraged the view that women are dangerous if allowed to be independent persons. As a result Jewish tradition viewed only married women as holy. In contrast to Jewish tradition and many other religions traditional Christianity at its outset allowed for a more liberal view of women. Biblical scholars believe that the later bible writers were concerned that this greater role of women would not be accepted in Hellenistic culture, and so began the transformation of Christian women into patriarchal patterns. Since her primary obligation was to her family a Jewish woman was generally unable to study or participate at the temple. Childbirth, in particular males, was regarded as the greatest blessing for a husband and wife. Unlike other religions the traditional Jewish woman was not confined to her home.
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