Sandra Glahn, author and theologian, joins the podcast to discuss the cult of Artemis in Ephesus and debunks misconceptions surrounding her. They also explore the use of inscriptions in understanding ancient stories and engage in light-hearted banter about 'The West Wing' and their favorite foods.
Artemis of Ephesus was not a fertility goddess, but a doula or midwife who played a significant role in childbirth in Ephesus.
The teachings of Paul in 1 Timothy 2:9-15 should be understood within the context of the Artemis cult and the false teachings associated with it.
Deep dives
The Role of Artemis in Ephesus
Artemis of Ephesus played a significant role in the lives of the early Christians in Ephesus. The podcast episode explores the history and significance of Artemis in the city of Ephesus. It debunks the common misconception that Artemis was a fertility goddess, emphasizing that she was actually a doulah or midwife. This revelation challenges the idea that Artemis was associated with nurturing and motherhood. The episode also delves into the connection between Artemis and the concept of salvation through childbirth, exploring the cultural context and religious practices surrounding this belief. Overall, the episode sheds light on the real identity of Artemis in Ephesus and the impact she had on the lives and beliefs of the early Christians in the city.
Dr. Sandra Glan's Journey as a Scholar
Dr. Sandra Glan shares her personal journey as a scholar and reveals the inspiration behind her book, 'Nobody's Mother: Artemis of the Ephesians and Antiquity and of the New Testament'. She discusses her own struggles with infertility and pregnancy loss, which led her to question the meaning behind the enigmatic biblical phrase 'a woman will be saved through childbearing'. Dr. Glan's deep dive into the historical and cultural context of Artemis in Ephesus, as well as her own personal experiences, shaped her decision to write this book and explore the significance of Artemis in the lives of early Christian women.
The Misconceptions Surrounding Artemis
The podcast episode debunks several misconceptions surrounding Artemis, particularly her portrayal as a fertility goddess. Dr. Glan argues that Artemis was not a fertility goddess but rather a doula or midwife who focused on delivering babies. She explores the connection between Artemis and the fear of childbirth, highlighting how Artemis was both revered as a protector during childbirth and feared as a swift killer of women and children due to the dangers of childbirth. By challenging these misconceptions, Dr. Glan aims to present a more accurate understanding of Artemis and her significance in Ephesus.
Understanding Paul's Perspective on Artemis
The episode delves into the relationship between Paul's teachings and the influence of Artemis in Ephesus. Dr. Glan argues that Paul's instructions in 1 Timothy 2:9-15 must be understood within the context of the Artemis cult and the false teachings associated with it. She suggests that Paul's concern was not to restrict women's roles in general, but to address specific false teachings and practices associated with Artemis worship. By unraveling the cultural and religious backdrop, the episode sheds light on Paul's intention to provide a theological response and guidance to the challenges faced by the early Christian community in Ephesus.
Episode: Recorded live in San Antonio at the Little Rhein Prost Haus with Sandra Glahn, Dru and Erin discuss the cult of Artemis in Ephesus and the way it transforms our […]
