A Misguided Patriarchal Emphasis
Autumn Puello
Disclaimer: I would like to note that post is strictly to object the underlying implications of sexism that are presented in the Bible's concept of marriage, which happens to be the traditional heterosexual relationship between a male and a female. In this post, I am simply objecting to the negative implications that the Bible sets forth for heterosexual relationships based on the concepts of sex and gender. In no manner am I attempting to exclude the LGBTQ+ community.
As religions have developed socially, alongside modern political atmospheres and the push for gender equality, many questions have arisen regarding the nature of the Holy Bible, other religious scriptures, and religious practices and traditions. I believe that a majority of society perceives the Holy Bible in a way that negatively perpetuates the concepts and customs of the patriarchy. While there are negative perceptions of women and gender in the Bible, there are also some that are genuinely misunderstood. It is also important to consider the origins of the Bible, and who has edited it along the way.
There are several verses in the Bible that refer to polyamory and a patriarchal rule, which can be considered negatively according to modern condemnation of sexism:
“But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God… Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.” – I Corinthians 11:3 & 9 (KJV)
“That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” – Titus 2:4-5 (KJV)
“If he take him another wife; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish. And if he do not these three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.” – Exodus 21:10-11
Some interpret this as evidence that God never condemned polyamory, but simply regulated it. Others believe that the man is the head of the house, and that women should be subordinate to him in all matters.
While these parts of the Holy Bible exemplify a patriarchal order, this is too literal of an application of scripture to society. One could argue that it is quite biased too. Interpretation of biblical scripture truly depends on the individual and their circumstances. I don’t know if it is appropriate to follow the Bible’s underlying implications of patriarchy, as it was written and edited by fellow men, who are subject to false knowledge, as everyone is.
I wonder if we could view the verses regarding a female and male’s role in the household as a more positive, supportive philosophy that focuses on the strengths of each gender, instead of as a comparison of the weakness of women to the dominance of men. In reality, they work together in balance, completing each other. And not only literally, the spiritual level of connection should be considered too.
Females tend to be more empathetic, more nurturing, and in tune with emotion and intuition. Males are more inclined to the logical, the straightforward, and physical. It doesn’t mean that an individual identifying as a man or woman cannot exhibit influences of the opposing gender, but that there is a divinity to the balance of a relationship in the household. I do think it makes sense that most mothers tend to be there emotionally for the family in a way that a father cannot, but that fathers are able to provide for their families in other unique ways. In the Bible, gender roles are perceived as negative and limiting, when instead it could be viewed as information in regards to how the support and system of the household should be set up, regardless of who conveys what is needed.
The concept and presence of polyamory in the Bible is confusing, as it doesn’t make sense that adultery would be one of the major sins, and yet men are allowed to have multiple wives as long as he follows certain restrictions. I find that quite contradicting and hypocritical, not to mention disgusting. I’m not putting down polyamory, as I believe that is a personal choice, but the way it is presented within the Bible is disturbingly catered towards the desires of men.
The Holy Bible can be taken from an esoteric point of view, one that understands the deeper implications and reasons for the scripture’s lessons in terms of the big picture of life. How the information within is applied depends on the currents of society, and those in power.
