Religion and Sarah Grimke
The concept of religion is something that is widely used but frequently misunderstood. During the 19th century religious ideologies were widely practiced, and had subsequent influences on nearly every facet of society. Sadly, religion was used particularly in the form of Christianity to keep certain groups oppressed; these groups included (but not limited to) both women and Blacks. Christianity despite its teachings of kindness, love and equality was somehow twisted and instead of focusing on doctrines that promote liberty, White Americans used it to keep minority groups marginalized. The writings of Sarah Grimke, Prince Hall "The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions" each contend with issues of oppression surrounding each author's individual minority group. Yet it can easily be noted that religion seems to be a reoccurring theme in each of the writings. Therefore, because the 19th century man had a sacrilegious mindset, he imposed various social oppressions on both women and Blacks. It could be understood that the common thread throughout each of the responses made by Grimke, Hall, and the Seneca Falls piece is that of religion. Prince Hall, in the "Petition to Massachusetts Legislature" makes many bold a
"He [man] has usurped the prerogative of Jehovah himself, claiming it as his right to assign for her a sphere of action, when that belongs to her conscience and her God. After all, judging by the precedence that America has set, It only seems FAIR for him to do so! In "Legal Disabilities of Women", Sarah Grimke sheds new light on the position of women in American society. Hall therefore mocks America, by saying that it is in "imitation of the laudable example of the good people of these states [Americans]" that he decides to petition the government. After all, Blacks were in a very similar position to that of America in relation to Britain. The basis of his argument is the fact that "the great parent of the universe", has bestowed the right of freedom upon man, and because these rights have never been forfeited, it is only fair for Blacks enjoy their unalienable rights likewise. It is evident that the influence of sacrilege has played a key role in each author's response. Using very powerful language, and by offering a clearer understanding of woman's position in society, the Seneca Falls piece noticeably shows the misfortune of women in the 19th century society in relation to sacrilege. Yet how Americans, a people "professing the mild religion of Jesus" do such a heinous act? In posing questions such as this, Hall shows the irony of America's religious stance and the reality of her actions against Blacks. our brethren are called upon in this enlightened age, by every sentiment of honor, religion and justice to repeal these unjust and unequal laws, and restore to woman those rights which they have wrested from her" This is compelling, because it shows how even though, religion was used to keep certain groups in social bondage, it can also be used as a means to liberate them. Hall supports this idea with the assertion that Americans are Christians, which is a belief system based on the concept of love, kindness, and the equal treatment of others. ssertions regarding the role of Blacks in American society. Grimke cleverly counters the misinterpretation of this scripture by offering a different spin on it, and in doing so she also exposes the hypocrisy of the religious influence of the time. In "The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions" many of the same concepts of the misuse of religion are widely implied. Furthermore, Hall contends that the American society is full of religious hypocrisy.
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