Yahweh--the patriarch
Subtitle: ancient images of God and feminist theology
By: Erhard S. Gerstenberger ; translated by Frederick J. Gaiser.
Publisher: Fortress Press
Published: 1996
Place of publication: Minneapolis
Language: eng
Number of pages: 168
Subjects: Bible. O.T. -- Theology.; Bible. O.T. -- Feminist criticism.; Masculinity of God -- Biblical teaching.; Patriarchy -- Biblical teaching.; God -- Biblical teaching.; Bible and feminism.
Description: Israel's conceptions of God changed, argues Gerstenberger, over the millenium witnessed in Hebrew Scriptures. Contrary to widespread opinion, the author shows that historical and biblical evidence points to an active early participation of women in cultic life, especially in the domestic realm when, in the sixth century, the status of women underwent a change. Social upheaval, political and economic stress, and the growing influence of priestly circles converged to redefine God in male terms.

This book explores the religious role of women in these different periods and social organizations. How did women lose a strong position in Israelite house cult, as arrested in Scriptures and through archaeological findings? Why did Yahweh, who once had a consort, Asherah, turn into a lone and militantly male deity?
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 159-164) and index.