Every culture has its own approaches to gender roles. Generally, there are disparities in the way men and women are expected to behave and function in the society. Judaism is to a great extent patriarchal. In spite of this, the traditional role of a woman in Judaism was that of a mother, wife, provider and leader (Cole 171).
Introduction
Men and women in Judaism are equal before God. This religion does not assign male or female gender to God. The utilization of masculine terminology to refer to God is for convenience purposes. The word ‘man’ in Gen 1:27, refers to humanity as a whole. The roles of men and women are therefore not adversarial but complementary as one gender is endowed or deficient in is some aspects than the other (Judaism 101).
Primary Roles of a Woman in Judaism
As a wife, the Jewish woman was expected to be intimate to her husband. According to scripture “Adam knew his wife” (Authorized King James Version, Gen 4:10). This knowledge was not only carnal but also emotional, physical and spiritual. The woman was also expected to prepare food for the husband. She also set the boundaries for her household by defining who should be included in it. That is why Rebecca was the one who made the decision to exclude Esau from the nation of Israel, contrary to what Isaac preferred (Judaism 101).
Secondly, Judaism values a woman’s matriarchal role (Baskin 656). The traditional Jewish woman was to bring up her own children. The mother of Samson, for example, was instructed to refrain from wine during the pregnancy of the child because this would affect the unborn baby. A woman was expected to know the Torah in order to inculcate its ideals in her children as they grew up. Having a Jewish mother was enough for one to become a Jew. However, a child born to a Jewish father and a gentile mother was not a Jew. This establishes the centrality of a mother as a pillar of Judaism.
Thirdly, a woman was given the role of a family investor and provider. In Proverbs 31, a wise woman manages to purchase a piece of land from her savings without the assistance of her husband. She knows what is good for the family and endeavors to complement the efforts of her husband. She shuns idleness and ensures there is food in the house. She is complimented by her children and husband. In essence, she holds her home together and prepares it for the future.
Other roles of Women in Judaism
Women held positions of leadership in Judaism (Baskin 649). While Moses and Aaron were credited with leading the children of Israel from Egyptian bondage, the role of their sister, Miriam, in the entire process is underlined and accentuated in scriptures. Miriam provided music and encouragement to the children of Israel as they escaped Pharaoh into the wilderness. She was also designated as a prophetess for the people of Israel. The exodus is a very significant event in Judaism and the pivotal role of women in this event is encapsulated in the life of Miriam.
In addition, women also played the role of judges in Judaism (Judaism 101). During the time when Israel was ruled by judges, Deborah took her place among men as an indication of divine regard of women. The appointment of Deborah by God came at a time when the society was patriarchal. However, scriptures show that she was very effective in the task that God had assigned to her to judge and also successfully lead Israel to battle. In essence, women, in Judaism, were considered to be as strong and capable as men in leading the nation.
Moreover, women played the role of prophetesses (Baskin 452). Prophets were the messengers of God to men and were held in high regard. Sarah (Gen 11:29 - 23:20), Miriam and Deborah were prophetesses. Others included Hannah (I Sam 1:1 - 2:21), Abigail, Huldah (II Kings 22:14-20) and Esther. Although men dominate the list of prophets in Judaism, these few are notable examples of the trust that the God of the Jews placed on women.
Lastly, the role of women in religion is passive in comparison to that of men. Men take centre stage in the synagogue and perform more commandments (mitvot) than women. In essence, women appear to be less privileged in performance of religious rituals. There is also a segregation of men and women during worship to ensure concentration especially by men who are perceived to be more vulnerable to sexual temptation (Judaism 101).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the traditional role of women in the Judaism was very crucial to the Jewish society. As a wife and mother, she took care of her children, her husband and the general welfare of her family. She was also a leader, a judge and a prophetess. Participation in religious activities was, however, passive. In essence, a Jewish woman was expected to play important roles that would gel with those of the man for the good of the society.
Works Cited
Authorized King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers Inc., 2011. Print.
Baskin, Judith (Ed.). The Cambridge Dictionary of Judaism and Jewish Culture. New York:
CUP, 2011. Print.
Cole, William Owen (Ed.). Moral Issues in Six Religions. Oxford: Heinemann, 1991. Print.
Judaism 101. “The Role of Women.” Judaism 101. nd. Web. 13 Feb. 2014.
