Women and the Genesis of Christianity

This insightful book examines women's roles in early Christianity, revealing transformative views in the New Testament that sought to challenge patriarchal norms.

In Women and the Genesis of Christianity, the author presents a thorough exploration of the New Testament's portrayal of women and their roles within the early Christian movement. This work is notable for its objective approach, steering clear of modern biases, whether patriarchal or feminist. The author argues that both the Gospels and the writings of St. Paul reflect an effort to reform the prevailing patriarchal norms of their time. By meticulously analyzing the texts, the book highlights the transformative perspectives introduced by Jesus regarding women's rights in society.

The narrative begins with a contextual background on the roles of women in Judaism, the Hellenistic world, and the Roman Empire, setting the stage for understanding the significant shifts initiated by Jesus. The author emphasizes how Jesus broke away from traditional conventions, offering a groundbreaking view of women's legitimate rights. This new perspective marked a pivotal moment in the historical context of women's roles, which had previously been limited.

Following this, the book delves into the apostle Paul's views on women, revealing both his agreements and differences with his contemporaries. The concluding chapters examine the evangelists' choices in presenting women's stories, shedding light on the early Church's understanding of their roles. Ultimately, Women and the Genesis of Christianity provides a compelling analysis of how the New Testament sought to challenge and reform the patriarchal structures of its time.