WOMEN IN THE WORLD OF RELIGION

The place, past and present, of women in religion is the burden of this study by an ordained Protestant woman and religious journalist. After a brief introductory allusion to some of the issues that arise about the relative position of men and of women in society, the author turns to an examination of her theme. Ancient myths and attitudes are surveyed and a lengthy study of the women of the Bible follows. The place accorded women in the early Church, in the Monastic movements and the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and Reformation, are examined, and the process continued through Puritan times to such modern movements as the YWCA. The question of the ordination of women is raised as well as the need for greater acceptance of women in ecclesiastical and theological positions. The role of women in other world religions is summarized in an appendix. The study covers a wide range of history and draws upon considerable research. It offers probably the most comprehensive report on the subject now available. The author warns readers against assuming that she is arguing for a feminist position. Equality of persons would seem to be her basic premise. The current interest in the role of women in our society should make this a welcome, even though not popularly circulated, book.