As a researcher and teacher deeply immersed in Biblical studies, my experiences have been mostly positive, although I have occasionally faced dismissal purely based on my gender. It’s not uncommon for certain individuals, predominantly men, to inappropriately wield passages like 2 Timothy 2:10-12 in attempts to ‘silence’ women like myself. When such efforts fail, they often resort to other controversial texts such as Genesis 3, 1 Corinthians 14, and Titus, twisting these to fit their narratives. However, it’s critical to recognize that many of the scriptures used in these contexts are rife with mistranslations and misinterpretations. Through this post, I aim to dissect and clarify these scriptures to empower fellow women who cherish the Bible and seek to be acknowledged and heard in accordance with the equality God intended.

Genesis| The Story of Genes, Male & Female, The Elohim

It’s essential to recognize that the book of Genesis narrates not just the origin of the world and universe but also explains the fundamental genetic blueprint of humankind. Within it, the Garden’s tree can be seen as an emblem of the genealogical lineage, with the serpent entwined in its branches. Some interpret this serpent as a metaphor for the enlightening experience of kundalini, which reveals dual aspects of reality. In contrast, some attribute the serpent to a figure of Lilith. Furthermore, Adam translates as human not man as most have been led to believe. Adam encompasses both masculine and feminine aspects, embodying the divine image of God. The word Elohim, used for God, includes multiple gods as the word is plural. This duality reflects the broader natural principle that the divine encompasses both masculine and feminine qualities, a notion consistent with the observed duality and balance seen in nature’s law of gender and polarity.

Who is Greater?

Examples of Women Church Leaders & Teachers

Revisiting the contentious scripture, Paul speaks in the first person, “I suffer not,” invoking his perspective, not divine commandment. Paul’s background is one of education and discipline, presenting him with the unique opportunity to lead the formation of a new religious movement. Interestingly, there is no scriptural evidence that Jesus Christ aimed to establish a new religion; on the contrary, he sought to dismantle the extant religious structures.

While a full exploration of Apostle Paul’s attitudes and intentions would require a separate discussion, the Bible itself provides ample evidence of female leadership. The Old Testament portrays Deborah not only as a prophetess, a warrior, and a singer but also as a teacher who, according to Jewish commentary known as Midrash, instructed both men and women. The New Testament offers further instances: Apostle Junia, the renowned team of Priscilla and Aquila, and the recognition by Paul himself of Phoebe, a deaconess whose work he commends. The term “deacon” derives from the Greek “diakonos,” a word meaning servant, messenger, and minister.

In light of these examples, it appears that Paul’s directive may not have been an unyielding mandate for female subservience but rather a universal call to cultivate inner peace. Moreover, it seems unlikely that Paul harbored a particular aversion to women as educators. Rather, his urgent mission was to establish a network of churches swiftly, employing his strategic expertise to expedite this ambition.

This represents a discernible effort to maintain women within the confines prescribed by a patriarchal structure. Countless individuals are bound by the distortions and misapplications of scriptures that have been employed to oppress. Stay tuned for more scripture analysis, interpretations, and educational content, all grounded in thorough research and verifiable facts.