Feminism and the Bible

Feminism is the theory that women are capable of participation and leadership in all of human activities such as spiritual, intellectual, political, social, sexual, and economic. Several submovements of feminist ideology have developed over the years. Some feminists viewed the Bible to be degrading to women because of the doctrine of the role assigned to women in human activities. But, If we read our Bible, we will readily find what does the Bible say about women in human activity.

We know that God created both male and female in His own image (Genesis 1: 27). God created woman is not to be man's subordinate. The Bible does not instruct women to only submit to her Christian husbands. Both of them were God's work, God's image, and God's distinction. Women were given the same rights as men, Women are of equal value in God's eyes.

In spiritual and political life, we know there are many prophetess at our bible. They are Miriam, Deborah, Huldah and Noadiah. Deborah is also the public leader of Israel. She is a Judge, and only female Judge of pre-monarchic Israel. Deborah is a woman with great power: judicial, religious, and social authority. She is also a female military leader. She joins her general, Barak to organized an army of ten thousand men. They were fighting against the enemy of Israel. She is not only a spiritual and public leader, but also a wife.

In social and economic life, we have Lydia. As we know, Lydia is a merchant. She was a dealer in purple cloth. Lydia was probably wealthy and has a major role in the life of their communities. Lydia is a successful business woman, as we know, purple cloth was a luxury item and was bought and worn by the elite. Maybe, today she would have a corporation. She was a Greek, but she convert to Judaism. She is also a leader in the prayer group.

Then, if we read Proverbs 31, we 'll find a role model of women. She is not only a good housewife, but also a successful business woman. Her business adds to the family income, such as in real estate (verse 16) and garment (verse 24). She running her business from home. In verse 20, we' ll find that she also has social activities. She opens her arms to the poor and the needy. She was a woman who able to balance work and home responsibilities.

So, according to the bible we know that women are capable of participation and leadership in all of human activities.