Here is another statement from "Transforming a Rape Culture": Of course, twisted Biblical interpretations seem to confirm women's subjugation to abuse as well. In a search for the meaning of her abuse, the victim may see Jesus' suffering as a model for her own and think that she must accept her cross( especially if this is what her clergyperson exhorts). She may think sinfulness lies in her assertion of self and believe that she must become more self-denying. She may conclude that forgiveness is required by her toward all who have hurt her. Our culture encourages the sacrifice of women. The perceived Christian emphasis on sacrifice as something good matches the way girls are taught to consider others rather than themselves to be self-sacrificing in a social situation. THE RELIGIOUS MEANING OF SACRAFICE IS THUS LAYERED ON TOP OF THE SOCIAL VIEW OF WOMEN AS SACRAFICIAL. Biblical teachings entrap women are misinterpreted-therefore even encouraging a rape culture. If Jesus was here today, he would not tell women to continue to suffer, he would say end the sufferring-NOW.
[This message has been edited by bdricp (edited April 03, 2001).]
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