Traditional Religious Teachings on Gender:

Before i can summarize the gendered Teachings of Judaism and Christianity there are 2

main things we need to look at. The book says " we immediately confront a number of problems. The first problem is that although many denominations and sects share a few basic beliefs ( for instance, although all christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, yet alot of christian denominations differ when it comes to more specific religious principles and practices, including those that concern appropriate roles of women and men."

The Book gives an example on page 315 about the Southern Baptist Convention which is the largest Protestant denomination in the united states. It talks about how that denomination differed on some issues with another denomination while both were Christian.

The second thing we need to look at is the problem of interpeting scriptures or religous teachings. We will find that a single passage of sacred text may be translated to legitimate gender oppression or to promote gender equality. Many people will look at the bible as a supporter of gender equaltiy or vice versa.

Keeping these 2 points in mind, the book will look at the conservative, moderate , and liberal denominations for each of the Judaism and Christianity religions. Also we will look at what these denominations' view 1) the appropiate behavior and rituals for the male and female should be; 2) the regulation of sexuality; 3) and the relative positions of men and women as church leaders or authorities.

Judaism

Jewish history spans more than 3500 years. Throghout much of this period, Jewish women and men have been governed by a set of laws spelled out for them in the Talmud. Contemporary Judaism is largely congregational . There are 3 three major types of congregations : Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform.

Orthodox Jews strictly follow the teachings of the Talmud and are discussed first. ( page 317 in the book). Orthodox views are considered very strict in regards to gender. It is stated that males dominate more of the religious duties in that denomination. Restrictions are also put when it comes to regulating a woman's sexuality and so on. The second is called Reform Judaism. It was begun in the mid 1800's to make Judaism more " up-to-date " and is more gender balanced. Third is the conservative Judaism which is also balanced when it comes to gender equalities. However, Conservative Judaism continues to prohibit the ordination of lesbian gay men as rabbis.

Christianity

The book begins by reciting two versus from the new testament of the bible which are on ( 321 in the book). Feminist Biblical scholars and theologians emphasize that there is no evidence that Jesus in any way was sexist. Yet, within Christian traditions, both men and women have been characterized in contradictory ways. Men are supposed to be rational, authorative , and in control, yet are depicted as weak- willed when confronted with women's feminine charms. Women have been portrayed as temptresses causing men to sin. Christianity has taken taken a conservative stand on sex. Sex is discussed as an activity to be avoided if possible, except for the purpose of procreation. Similar to a several of Judaism ideas, christianity in general prohibits women-leaders in a church. It also takes a tough stand on homosexuality, calling it a disorder. The Women-Church movement is another coalition which is trying to get women involved and recognized in that religion.

My point of view

As I read the chapter, especially the section on these two relegions, I was astonished to see the similarity between many Jewish and Christian denominations. Alot of these denominations took similar stands on debatable topics. A much debated one would be about the regulation of sexuality. Some can argue and say that religion is putting restrictions on sex and thus is not fair. Yet , I would say that these restrictions are protective. I am a supporter of abstinence mainly for the rate of STD's and pregnancy that exists today in our society.

As far as gender equality that shifts authority to men more than women, I feel that even though alot of responsibilities are put upon men, women should be involved. Women can be involved psychologically more than physically. I am a supporter of women groups who meet up to have meetings. The Women-Church movement is a wonderfull coalition. Although some might argue that alot of men are granted power in Judaism and Christianity, I say, let whomever is not granted power be humble. Humility on its own is power.