Shechem BONUS: Historical Interpretation with Dr. Beth Allison Barr and Dr. Sandra Glahn
Apr 5, 2024
auto_awesome
Biblical scholars Dr. Beth Allison Barr and Dr. Sandra Glahn discuss the interpretations of Dinah and the Samaritan Woman by early theologians, exploring historical misinterpretations and perspectives. They delve into the impacts of diverse viewpoints on understanding ancient texts and the evolution of interpretations over time, reflecting on gender roles and the influences of reformers like Luther and Calvin. The episode also touches on the evolving perceptions of female biblical characters, such as Dina, and the significance of collaboration in Bible interpretation.
Early interpretations blamed Dina for her assault due to assumptions about her curiosity and risks of sexual sin.
Interpretations of the woman at the well varied from seeing her as a woman of faith to being depicted as contentious and sinful, influenced by patriarchal views.
Deep dives
Misinterpretation of Dina's Story
Interpreting Dina's narrative as her fault for the rape, stemming from assumptions that she left her home out of curiosity, led to blaming her for her assault. Early church writings viewed Dina leaving home as risking sexual sin, influenced by movements like asceticism promoting sexual purity.
Historical Context of Interpretations
Historical context shaped interpretations of Dina, with figures like Bernard of Clairvaux linking her curiosity to sin and Bernard's emphasis on sexual purity. Calvin and Luther's perspectives reflected patriarchal authority, viewing Dina's actions through traditional gender roles and reinforcing the male-dominated societal structure.
Varied Interpretations of the Woman at the Well
Interpretations of the woman at the well varied, from allegorical to literal perspectives in early church traditions. Some saw her as a woman of faith and apostolic qualities, while Calvin depicted her as contentious and sinful, shifting the focus to her defensiveness rather than her faith.
Gendered Views in Interpretation
The historical interpretations of women in biblical stories reveal male-centric perspectives shaping theological views. Dina and the woman at the well were often judged from patriarchal contexts, impacting their portrayal as complicit or contentious, reflecting societal power dynamics.
Dinah and the Samaritan Woman have been interpreted many different ways by founding church fathers and theologians, and we inherit those interpretations. Kat welcomes Biblical scholars Drs. Beth Allison Barr and Sandra Glahn to process the interpretations of these early theologians–known as the Patristic fathers, and reformation leaders.
Dr. Sandra Glahn is a Professor of Media Arts and Worship at Dallas Theological Seminary and author of more than 20 books. Dr. Beth Allison Barr is an expert in Medieval History, and her book The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth was a bestseller and began a larger conversation in recent years about the role of women in scripture and the church.
Episode Content Warning: This episode contains content related to sexual assault.