Discussion for 31st May
What are we to make of this 'Ode to a Perfect Wife' at the end of Proverbs 31?
10 A capable wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good, and not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She seeks wool and flax,
and works with willing hands.
14 She is like the ships of the merchant,
she brings her food from far away.
15 She rises while it is still night
and provides food for her household
and tasks for her servant-girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength,
and makes her arms strong.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
Her lamp does not go out at night.
19 She puts her hands to the distaff,
and her hands hold the spindle.
20 She opens her hand to the poor,
and reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid for her household when it snows,
for all her household are clothed in crimson.
22 She makes herself coverings;
her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the city gates,
taking his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them;
she supplies the merchant with sashes.
25 Strength and dignity are her clothing,
and she laughs at the time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household,
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her happy;
her husband too, and he praises her:
29 “Many women have done excellently,
but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
31 Give her a share in the fruit of her hands,
and let her works praise her in the city gates.
These words often get quoted when believers, Jewish and Christian, talk about a 'Biblical view of women' - but with different ideas about whether or not these words are truthful, helpful, just or wise. This is an ancient writing, so what are we to make of it in 2021?
Monday's discussion will take a slightly different format to usual. After a brief introduction we will go into breakout rooms to focus exclusively on what is negative, objectionable or just plain wrong about these verses. Then, after a quick feedback we will go into our 2nd breakout room to focus exclusively on what, if anything, is positive in these verses. Then, after another quick feedback we will join all together to give an overall evaluation of these verses. Are they fit for service today?
I, (Francis) will be leading the discussion - but as facilitator, not giving any opinions. Everyone is welcome, all views will be listened to with respect, and sometimes politely disagreed with by others. The group is always mixed, hopefully there will be a strong female presence on Monday.
Topic: Unitarian & Free Christian Bible Discussion
Time: May 31, 2021 06:30 PM UK time
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Meeting ID: 975 3299 1051
Passcode: 926579
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