Religious traditions are often criticized for promoting patriarchy. Some critics argue that this is unfair because these traditions have been misinterpreted and misunderstood. Others suggest that it is simply an expression of cultural values rather than religious teachings. Regardless, many religions still promote patriarchal views and gender hierarchies which have far-reaching consequences. This essay will examine how religious cosmologies legitimate gender specific sexual roles, marital obligations, and relational authority.
Many cultures view women as inferior to men based on their biological differences. In most cases, men are seen as stronger and more capable while women are viewed as being subservient to men. Women are expected to submit to male authority and obey male commands. This is reflected in traditional marriage ceremonies where the bride must take vows of obedience. It also extends into the bedroom where sex is considered a duty that women owe to their husbands. The Quran states "Let those who find not the wherewithal to marry keep themselves chaste until Allah makes them free from want out of His Grace" (Quran 24:33), suggesting that if a man cannot afford to marry a woman he should abstain from sex altogether.
Some scholars argue that this idea stems from the Garden of Eden story found in Genesis. According to this story, Adam was created first and given dominion over all creatures including his wife Eve. This biblical narrative has shaped Christian beliefs about masculine supremacy for centuries.
Other scholars point out that this interpretation ignores key aspects of the text such as God creating both humans at the same time and creating Eve from Adam's rib. They suggest that this suggests equality between men and women rather than a hierarchy.
In Hinduism, women are seen as less worthy because they lack the power of procreation. Their bodies contain "impure fluids" which make them dirty and unclean. This belief system justifies restrictions on sexuality and promotes celibacy for both genders before marriage. After marriage, however, women are expected to be submissive to their husband's needs and desires. The Bhagavad Gita states "A female creature born from the womb of another female is impure; therefore, she is known as one who causes misfortune." Hindu texts also encourage polygamy, with one verse stating "It is better to marry several virtuous women than to live in constant company with bad women" (Manu Smriti 9.187).
Buddhist traditions promote gender-specific roles based on karma. In Buddhism, men have more opportunities to accumulate merit through religious practice than women do. This is due to their ability to renounce worldly pleasures like sex. Women must remain loyal to their husbands even if he is abusive or unfaithful. Buddhism teaches that women should accept their inferior position and strive to become reborn as men in their next life.
Judaism promotes male supremacy by emphasizing fertility and childbearing. Fertile women are viewed as morally superior while barren ones are considered deficient. Menstruating women are considered spiritually impure and thus forbidden from entering temples during their period. Menstrual blood is seen as dirty and must be avoided at all costs.
Some Jewish scholars argue against this viewpoint, suggesting that it has been misinterpreted and distorted over time. They point out that the Torah actually praises fertility and sexuality, calling it a blessing from God.
Religious cosmologies often legitimize gender specific sexual roles, marital obligations, and relational authority. While these views may seem archaic and oppressive today, they reflect deep cultural beliefs about masculinity and femininity that extend back centuries. It is important for people of all faiths to question these assumptions and challenge traditional norms.
How do religious cosmologies legitimize gender-specific sexual roles, marital obligations, and relational authority?
Religious belief systems often justify and perpetuate traditional gender roles within marriage by establishing a hierarchical power structure between men and women that is sanctioned by divine will. This patriarchal framework is reinforced through various means such as scripture, ritual, and tradition, which prescribe specific behavior for each sex and restrict their interactions with one another.