Yeshua’s Revolutionary Treatment Of Women
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In the 1st century, Yeshua initiated a transformative cultural movement that had a profound impact on the perception and treatment of women. His approach to women was truly groundbreaking, serving as a momentous milestone. Yeshua fought tirelessly for the rights of women, standing firmly against discriminatory thoughts and cultural norms that marginalized them.
In order to truly grasp the weight of Yeshua’s words on women, it is crucial to first comprehend the societal perception of women during the 1st Century.
1st Century Cultural Views Of Women
Yeshua appeared in the 1st Century when Jewish culture was heavily influenced by extreme patriarchal beliefs. In essence, during the 1st Century, men were considered superior to women in almost every aspect, not only within Jewish culture, but across various cultures. Despite its shortcomings, the Jewish culture of that time possessed a higher perspective compared to many other cultures. However, it is important to acknowledge that there were still imperfections present.
Women did not have the same opportunities and privileges as men. One of the most significant challenges faced by Jewish women was their exclusion from the inner courts of the Temple, which was not just a place of worship, but also a social gathering. This hindered women from fully participating in society, depriving them of educational opportunities and chances to improve their social status.
Some of the teachings of the time even went beyond that. Rabbi Eli’ezer said, “Whoever teaches his daughter Torah is considered as if he taught her foolishness.” Another Rabbi taught “Let the words of Torah rather be destroyed by fire than imparted to a woman.” Naturally, not all ideas within Judaism reached such extremes. It is important to acknowledge that these radical perspectives were not in line with God’s intentions. Instead, these were interpretations that humans introduced, causing harm. This is something we continue to practice even now.
We can clearly see that it was not God’s intention to place women beneath men, as evidenced by Yeshua’s arrival in this world, where He fearlessly confronted the numerous customs that marginalized women. Yeshua not only dared to question the prevailing order, but He also uplifted women in His ministry in ways that were unprecedented in His time. He bestowed worth and granted women a platform to express themselves.
What Did Yeshua Say About Women?
The initial surprise appears in Yeshua’s genealogy in Matthew 1, the chapter you tend to ignore due to its perceived dullness. In the past, genealogies were not only commonplace, but also held great significance. They were considered to be the equivalent of a remarkable, personal portfolio. You showcased them to demonstrate your prowess and the prestigious background you hailed from. Instead of hiding the bad people and emphasizing the good people, Yeshua chose to do the exact opposite.
Yeshua not only identified murderers, adulterers, liars, doubters, and individuals who deceive others by claiming their spouse is their sibling, but He also emphasized their presence in a profound way. The genealogy of Yeshua is particularly noteworthy due to the inclusion of five remarkable women: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and, of course, Mary.
In the 1st Century, this was simply not done. Not only did Yeshua shock everyone by including a few women, but He went even further. He welcomed two non-Jews, a prostitute, and Bathsheba, who happened to be David’s mistress. If you were seeking to make an impression, these individuals would not be the ones you choose. However, impressing others was never Yeshua’s intention. His purpose was to uplift those whom society deemed worthless.
Yeshua’s teachings also emphasized equality. In contrast to the prevailing exclusion of women by many teachers of that time, Yeshua employed parables and teachings to embrace and empower women. Yeshua emphasized equality of tenets and showed it in teaching. His teachings on divorce not only refrained from negativity, but also included provisions for safeguarding women. (Matthew 19:1-12).
Women Held Significant Roles In Yeshua’s Ministry
During Yeshua’s ministry, He consistently emphasized the equal importance of women and men. Despite the prevailing cultural norms, which typically elevated men and prioritized sharing news with them first, Yeshua intentionally included women in prominent roles and granted them equal status. However, Yeshua’s purpose was not to make an impression, but rather to provide value and worth to those whom society deemed unworthy.
He empowered women by assigning them roles that were equal to those of men:
- The first miracle went to a woman. (John 2:1-11)
- The first news of His incarnation went to a woman. (Luke 1:35)
- The first Samaritan convert was a woman. (John 4:39-42)
- The first person clearly told by Yeshua that He was the Messiah was a woman. (John 4:26)
- The first news of the His resurrection went to a woman. (Luke 24:1-12)
- Women were commissioned to tell the news of the resurrection to the Disciples. (Matthew 28:10)
Yeshua defied the prevailing culture that constantly marginalized women. Instead, He elevated them to significant positions within His ministry, affirming His deep appreciation for their worth and importance.
Why Were All The Disciples Men?
One common argument I often come across is the claim that Yeshua did not value women because all of His disciples were men. This implies that Yeshua was suggesting that only men can take on leadership roles, while women cannot. Yeshua selecting 12 men as His closest disciples does not negate the importance of the numerous other male and female disciples who followed Him. Focusing solely on the number of disciples chosen fails to recognize the deeper significance of their commitment to His teachings.
The true significance lies not in Yeshua selecting men as His disciples, but rather in His deliberate choice of exactly twelve individuals. It wasn’t about gender, but rather the fact that there were twelve representatives for the Tribes of Israel. Hence, after Judas departs, the Disciples in Acts immediately embark on a quest to find the twelfth member. This number holds immense importance, surpassing considerations of gender.
The argument that Yeshua exclusively chose men to be His Disciples can be easily debunked. If one claims that women cannot be leaders because Yeshua handpicked twelve men, it would also imply that Gentile men cannot be leaders. Yeshua chose twelve Jewish men as His followers, indicating that being Jewish was a requirement for leadership. This could also imply that being circumcised, a common practice among Jewish men, was expected of those who wished to assume leadership roles.
[Remember: you can’t cherry-pick Scripture to validate one’s personal doctrine or belief.]
The importance lies in numbers, not genders. In other instances, Yeshua ensured that women had equal roles to their male counterparts. Women were given the opportunity to be educated, to lead, and held prominent positions in His ministry.
Yeshua’s Treatment Of Women
One of the most striking illustrations of Yeshua empowering women is found in Luke 10:38-42, which recounts the captivating tale of Martha and Mary. If you have been raised in a church, you may be familiar with this particular story. Yeshua visits Martha’s house, where she tirelessly works to prepare everything, while her sister Mary sits attentively at Yeshua’s feet, listening to His teachings. Martha gets mad and tells Yeshua to make Mary help her.
Yeshua famously says “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” The lesson of the story is to never be so preoccupied that we fail to notice Yeshua. But wait… Is that what is really happening?
The Bible was crafted for a different era and society, making it challenging for us to fully grasp the cultural nuances while reading it. One notable distinction lies in the contrasting roles of women and men within this culture. In the culture of the 1st century, men were expected to sit at the feet of their teachers, absorbing knowledge, while women diligently attended to the tasks of preparing meals and taking care of household chores. Therefore, Martha is fulfilling her cultural responsibilities while Mary is defying tradition. Mary is taking on the role of a man.
Contrary to popular belief, Yeshua’s intention is not to criticize Martha’s actions. The true importance of this moment lies in Yeshua’s acceptance of Mary’s desire to sit and learn from Him, and His subsequent praise for her choice. This is a huge role reversal and points to Yeshua’s intent: men and women have equal value in Yeshua’s sight.
What Yeshua And Women Means For Us
Yeshua courageously confronted the dominant beliefs and behaviors that relegated women to second-class status, illuminating their true worth and significance, and He placed them in prominent roles in His ministry. He initiated a revolution that endures to this day. Women held great worth in Yeshua’s eyes and played a crucial part in His ministry.
The modern church ought to emulate Yeshua’s example and persist in carrying out His mission. Women’s worth remains significant, and they can contribute immensely to the growth of the ministry. We must ensure that they are placed in positions where their inherent talents can be maximized. I want to clarify that I do acknowledge that this is already taking place in some denominations. God is utilizing numerous extraordinary women to accomplish remarkable feats. Nevertheless, it is evident that there is still unfinished business in this regard, especially within fundamental, evangelical churches.
In my opinion, it seems that there is still an underlying preference for the roles of men rather than women in certain aspects. It is crucial for us to reflect on the way Yeshua treated women and strive to emulate His admirable example.
