The Role of Women in Judaism and Christianity
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 her role at the home.
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. Some women were described a benefactors or leaders in the Church. As a result Jewish tradition viewed only married women as holy. Although exulted as a good wife and mother ancient Jewish women were viewed as second class to men. However some passages refer to women as subordinates of men. Since her primary obligation was to her family a Jewish woman was generally unable to study or participate at the temple. Celibacy became a prevailing view among Christian theology. Even going as far as saying women were responsible for the sin of humanity. In traditional Jewish society a barren woman was viewed to be cursed by God and this provided grounds for divorce. The most influential book in Jewish tradition, The Talmud contributed to this line of thinking. Unlike other religions the traditional Jewish woman was not confined to her home. However this could also prove to be a source of great sadness and outcast. As a result by the second century the Church fathers developed a disparaging attitude about sexuality and women. Childbirth, in particular males, was regarded as the greatest blessing for a husband and wife.
Common topics in this essay:
Judaism Christianity,
Testament Bible,
,
view women,
jewish tradition,
religions traditional,
jewish woman,
role women,
jewish women,
traditional jewish,
|
Acceptance Essays
