Yahweh--the patriarch : ancient images of God and feminist theology / Erhard S. Gerstenberger ; translated by Frederick J. Gaiser.

Format:

Book

Contributor:

Gerstenberger, Erhard S.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Bible. Old Testament.

Masculinity of God--Biblical teaching.

Masculinity of God.

Patriarchy--Biblical teaching.

Patriarchy.

God--Biblical teaching.

God.

Bible. Old Testament--Theology.

Bible.

Bible. Old Testament--Feminist criticism.

Bible and feminism.

Feminist criticism.

Theology.

Physical Description:

xv, 168 pages ; 22 cm

Place of Publication:

Minneapolis, MN : Fortress Press, 1996.

Summary:

Israel's conceptions of God changed, argues Gerstenberger, over the millenium witnessed in Hebrew Scriptures. Contrary to widespread opinion, the author shows that historical and biblical evidence points to an active early participation of women in cultic life, especially in the domestic realm when, in the sixth century, the status of women underwent a change. Social upheaval, political and economic stress, and the growing influence of priestly circles converged to redefine God in male terms. This book explores the religious role of women in these different periods and social organizations. How did women lose a strong position in Israelite house cult, as arrested in Scriptures and through archaeological findings? Why did Yahweh, who once had a consort, Asherah, turn into a lone and militantly male deity?

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 159-164) and index.

ISBN:

0800628438

OCLC:

34618359