Was Paul concerned about women’s hair or veils in ancient Corinth? Would he be concerned about it in 21st-century Sydney? I wrote this piece in response to teaching at the Equip 17 women’s conference.
Not all first-century women fit the stereotype of being hidden and housebound. Some were influential and prominent in society and in the church.
Tertullian, famous for once describing women as “the devil’s gateway,” wrote some wonderful things about equality and mutuality in marriage. He did not regard the household code in Ephesians as either comprehensive or prescriptive.
This essay looks at the distinctive appearance of Artemis of Ephesus, and at what her items of clothing symbolise. A short history of the goddess is also included to help explain her importance and power.
Titus 2:5 contains a word which is usually translated as “workers at home,” but the King James Bible has “keepers at home.” Which is the correct phrase? What is meant by “keepers at home”?
Some Ephesian women held the position of high-priestess (and other offices) in pagan cults. Did this culture of prominent women influence Christian women to behave inappropriately in the Christian community of Ephesus?
Would you like to support my ministry of encouraging mutuality and equality between men and women in the church and in marriage?
© 2021 Marg Mowczko