Celebrating Women’s Strength and Honor

By Anna Ram~ Psychologist and Pastoral Integrative Counseling

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the strength and resilience of women worldwide and acknowledge their significant contributions across social, economic, cultural, and political realms throughout history. This day reminds us to continue fostering an environment where every woman feels valued and empowered, because recognizing women’s efforts and contributions brings positive changes that benefit everyone. There are many good causes to advocate for, such as: Ending all sorts of violence and abuse against women and girls at home, at workplaces, and anywhere… and bringing perpetrators to Justice, not matter who they are.

Many women have fought for justice, equity, and equality globally. For instance, Susan B. Anthony advocated for women’s voting rights in the U.S., while Miriam Wright championed women’s right to drive in Saudi Arabia. Numerous others have fought for property rights, access to education, work, healthcare, and participation in politics. Notably, Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, provided vital medical assistance during the Civil War and established the organization to aid in disaster relief.

In Bible history, there is a compelling story in Numbers 27:1-11, where the daughters of Zelophehad, who were named Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, approached Moses and the leaders of Israel to plead for their right to inherit their father’s land since he died without a male heir. They argued that they should not be denied their father’s inheritance simply because they were women. Moses brought their request before the Lord. God affirmed their claim, instructing Moses that the daughters are indeed entitled to inherit their father’s land.  I am sure it was not an easy “fight” living in a patriarchal society.  But this shows not only God’s consideration for justice but also a significant moment in ancient Israel’s history regarding women’s rights. Like this account there are others, who simply took a stance where needed.

Deborah, a Prophetess and Judge of Israel, played a pivotal role when Israel faced oppression from Canaanite king. She commanded military action and encouraged General Barak to lead an army, resulting in a significant victory as noted in the Book of Judges (Judges 4-5).

Other notable figures include Jael, Esther, Sarah and more, such as Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, who was celebrated for her leadership during the Exodus. Rachel and Leah, Jacob’s wives, played crucial roles in forming the twelve tribes of Israel, demonstrating resilience while battling personal challenges for their family. (raising twelve contentious boys and fighting for the same husband’s love is not an easy task.)

Finally, I set apart Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who is revered for her unwavering faith and acceptance of God’s plan in her life, in despite of all, underscoring her pivotal role in Christian faith in the Early Church.

Biblical womanhood and Feminist theology represent two different perspectives on women’s roles in Christianity. While biblical womanhood emphasizes traditional roles and virtues, feminist theology seeks to amplify women’s voices and promote equality as it was in the beginning when God created Mankind in Adan and Eve, before their fall in the Garden. If you want to explore various viewpoints on feminism, these may be good sources:

1. “The Feminist Mistake: The Radical Impact of Feminism on Church and Culture” by Mary A. Kassian – Critiques feminist interpretations of biblical texts.
2. “The Dance of the Dissident Daughter” by Sue Monk Kidd – A personal narrative reconciling faith with feminist beliefs.

“Feminist Theology: A Reader” edited by Ann Loades – A collection of essays highlighting various aspects of feminist thought within Christian theology.

How A Woman Ought To Be?

King Lemuel’s mother praises the epitome of the ideal woman depicted in Proverbs 31, for that time and place in Mediterranean culture, detailing the qualities of a virtuous but strong woman.

Though King Lemuel was famous for his wisdom, his reign accomplishments and wealth, his moral choices and relationships reflected flaws, highlighting lack of true wisdom in his practice of faith. We have been taught that he was a king so he could had many hundreds or thousands of women in his life. But his mother rebukes him endearingly and defines a “good woman” he needs as a devoted wife and mother. She challenges her son to become a deserving king for the nation and “the man” for that woman.—echoing the saying, “Behind every great man is a great woman.” Nations need rulers that follow their mother’s good advice.

Let’s focus on verses 25-26 (NIV) for a moment: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

In a world marked by imperialistic ambitions to dominate each other and do warfare for natural resources, today’s women are called to embody the principles outlined in Proverbs 31:25-26, to continue her role in society, whatever role she takes. Our strength goes beyond physical attributes. Although is important to be healthy for this task, our strength  is rooted in dignity and integrity, shaped by internal qualities and external influences. It is also shaped by our life experiences. Honor should guide us in every task, so our resilience inspire those around us.

How Can We Laugh At the Days To Come? Laughing at uncertain times, means staying optimistic amid health issues, political instability, financial crises, and even when war takes place and changes everything. (I know is easy to say and hard to obtain.) But this woman’s profile finds joy in small victories, practices gratitude, nurtures relationships, keeps working and trusting God, and fosters lasting hope for the future. Must keep optimistic.

A woman’s voice has the power to inspire and create change. As the Bible states, our words hold the power of life and death. But by listening actively, we engage compassionately with others. Listen actively, involves fully focusing on the speaker, showing engagement through body language and verbal affirmations, and providing feedback for understanding. It requires deferring judgment and responding thoughtfully to foster effective communication.

If we doubt we can fit this profile, there is one way to find out. Consider the following:

• Create an inventory of your strengths to assess your value. (include character traits, values, personality, personal achievements, etc.)
• Write your biography as if you are publishing it public or passing it down as a legacy to your children and grandchildren.
• Pay attention on How this reflection can boost your self-esteem and confidence.
• Celebrate Yourself.
• Work on the things you notice you lack of.

I leave you now, with this poem as my gift to you as I celebrate you on Woman’s Day and Mental Health Month.