It's true! A study conducted by Wines of Chile involving 3,000 women found that the average woman can keep a secret for only 47 hours and 15 minutes. The research revealed that 40% of women struggle to maintain confidentiality, with over half indicating that alcohol would further loosen their tongues. Most women confided their secrets primarily to significant others, best friends, or mothers. On average, women encounter three pieces of gossip weekly and tend to share it with at least one other person. Despite 30% feeling compelled to divulge secrets, two-thirds experience some form of guilt afterwards. However, 75% still believe they are trustworthy. Interestingly, over 40% of women think it's acceptable to share a friend's secret with someone who is not involved.

So why is this still a secret among the religious?

Women continue to be marginalized and objectified around the globe, significantly impacted by the expanding pornography industry and increasing instances of media violence directed against them. I mean, who doesn't have an OnlyFans account now!?! A notable lack of awareness persists among many within religious communities regarding the shocking prevalence of domestic abuse, incest, and rape, as well as the growing trend of homelessness affecting women.

Internationally, the situation for women continues to be dire. A glance at various discriminatory practices highlights the grim reality: in certain Asian regions, women are commodified and can be treated no better than household pets. At one point in India, the cruel fate of brides lacking adequate dowries can lead to being burned alive, allowing their husbands to remarry wealthier women. Across numerous African nations, women endure the trauma of ritualistic genital mutilation. In different Islamic countries, the denial of education to women is a tactic used to facilitate their economic exploitation. Globally, although women are responsible for a major portion of food production, they often have minimal influence over the distribution of these resources and are typically the last to eat.

This global bias against women often stems from ingrained religious norms, perpetuated by individuals who may not fully comprehend the sexist nature of their actions. However, defining misogyny, anti-feminism, or sexism merely as disdain or hatred for women oversimplifies the issue. More accurately, misogyny encompasses any ideology or behavior that withholds from women equal political, economic, and social rights. In a religious context, it includes any doctrine or action that undermines women's status as spiritually complete while restricting their ability to utilize their talents in service to their faith.

Women and the Bible

And yet, in the historical tapestry of the Bible, women are portrayed in various roles, ranging from household objects to the vulnerable, from the wicked to the virtuous, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of their existence in the ancient world. Within these ancient texts, the depiction of young, unmarried women—often symbolized by the figure of a virgin—highlights their precarious position in society. Supposedly governed by the Law of Moses, these Jewish women should have found a measure of protection against violence, but they still remained susceptible to being raped and sold into slavery.

This backdrop sets the stage for a complex portrayal of femininity where physical beauty, albeit celebrated in the Song of Songs and alluded to in Psalms, was not the primary focus as it often is in Western romantic minds. Instead, biblical narratives like that of Ruth elevate the young woman's virtues—beauty, fidelity, and moral integrity—over mere physical appearance. Indeed, from the perspective of the Bible, it was not that beautiful women became the embodiment of strength and virtue. Rather, it was their honor and purity that made them beautiful in the first place.

The biblical archetype of the "good wife," epitomized by figures such as Sarah and the Proverbs 31 woman, is revered not just for her subservience but for her industriousness, wisdom, and piety. These women are lauded for their contributions to their families and communities, transcending the mere aesthetic to encompass virtues that contribute to societal well-being. In contrast, the "bad wife," represented by Rebekah and Jezebel, serves as a cautionary tale against deceit and idolatry, highlighting the consequences of straying from virtuous paths.

Amidst these narratives, the Bible does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by women, such as barrenness or exploitation, emphasizing their dependence on male figures for economic and social security. Yet, it is within this context that the courage and resilience of women like Deborah, Jael, and Esther shine brightly, challenging traditional roles and asserting their place in biblical HIStory. The Hebrew Bible, while primarily chronicling the deeds of men, does not entirely obscure the contributions of women. Figures like Miriam and the wise women of Proverbs reflect a society where women, although rarely, could occupy roles of leadership.

Transitioning into the New Testament, the evolution of women's roles becomes even more pronounced. The figure of Mary, mother of Jesus, encapsulates this shift, transcending her maternal role to become a disciple of Christ ... well, if you ignore the Gospel of Mark, of course. Regardless, the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry, where women like Mary and Martha engage in theological discussions and serve alongside men, marks a departure from traditional Jewish norms. Women are no longer valued solely for their reproductive capabilities but are recognized as integral members of the faith community. In the narratives of Jesus' ministry, women emerge as symbols of resilience and discipleship. They are the compassionate widow, the industrious homemaker, the devoted follower. The transformation from cultural objectification to subjects of their own faith journey highlights a revolutionary redefinition of womanhood in the biblical context.

The poignant presence of women at the crucifixion and their pivotal role as the first witnesses of the resurrection (if you ignore Paul's record-keeping) underscore their indispensability in the narrative of redemption. This shift not only challenges the patriarchal structures of the time but also reaffirms the intrinsic value of women as bearers of wisdom, faith, and courage.

We Still Have Work to Do

As we reflect on International Women's Day each year, the biblical portrayal of women offers a lens through which to appreciate the strides made in women's rights and empowerment. While acknowledging the historical vulnerabilities and societal constraints faced by women, these biblical narratives also celebrate their wisdom and spiritual depth. The journey from the marginalization in ancient texts to the recognition and affirmation in modern society reflects a profound evolution, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for equality and the vital contributions of women in all spheres of life.