EXAMINING WOMEN'S EFFORTS IN THE INTERPRETATION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT THROUGH A FEMINIST APPROACH

Abstract

This research examines the pivotal role of women scholars in advancing New Testament hermeneutics through feminist approaches. It considers the historical development of feminist interpretation. It also addresses the importance of conducting a critical study on feminist approaches to interpreting some texts of the New Testament. The possible ways of improving on the herculean task of studying the New Testament from a feminist point of view is not discarded. The research methodologies adopted in this study are the historical-critical method and the feminist approach of biblical interpretation, as well as the utilization of books, journal, and internet sources. It was discovered that the feminist approach to the interpretation of the New Testament is an uphill task; hence, it faces challenges. Findings reveal that feminist exegesis has not only exposed androcentric biases but also generated transformative readings that empower women in global church contexts, although significant resistance persists in conservative traditions. This research contends that giving allegiance to the feminist approach in the reading and analysis of the New Testament text(s) would provide further crucial information about the narratives of the New Testament and enhance a better understanding of New Testament passages that require such an approach.