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Hi,

I’m on an online forum and some people were saying that they don’t like religion (not Judaism, referring specifically to Christianity) since the woman is put down. I responded saying that from the view of Judaism, which Christianity is founded on, the woman is looked up to, protected – often greater than the man. It’s not better/worse roles, just different.

Someone responded and asked for clarification, writing:
In Genesis, woman was the seductress and temptress that caused the downfall of man, and the whole human race. Eve was cursed by God for her disobedience and leading Adam astray: “Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.”

I said I’d ask and try find a response to it, and am wondering if you can respond.

(My original response was:
Historically, in Judaism (and I’m quoting judaism as supposedly christianity and all variations originate there, and also because this is all before christianity was developed, and I don’t know enough about any religion, but I think that all christianity believes in this – correct me if I’m wrong) a women,has an equal if not greater role. Think of Adam and Eve. Adam saying he followed Eve. Think of Abraham being told by God to listen to his wife, that his wife knows better. Or of God lying to Abraham about his wife, for him not to know she didn’t believe in him. Think of Jacob choosing where to go based on his mother’s advice. Think of the women prophets.
Traditionally women have held a different role to that of men. Not better or worse. Different.
All religion is meant to be about respect and elevation of a women. Looking after. Care for. Protect.)

Thank you!

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Answers

  1. What you have written is very apt and also very clear!

    In addition I would suggest that you point out to the writer that Adam was equally punished for his role in the sin of eating from the Tree of Knowledge. Yes, it is true that Eve was the instigator but Adam is held no less responsible than Eve for his not refusing to eat it.

    I wish you every success in your endeavors!

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team