No chance for chauvis

Who willingly permits himself to be subordinate to someone else? Paul is often accused of being chauvinistic towards women, because he speaks of woman being subordinate towards their husbands. However, is it really a case of Paul wanting to suppress women?

Here in this verse, Paul clearly speaks of subordination, however, when one read it in its whole context, it becomes clear that it is not about male chauvinism. It is instead, about the divine order of creation. Whoever only understands this in the context of subordination, is missing the point.

Whoever also reads the second verse, will realize that it is not about controlling a woman. Just as Christ loved the Church, the man should love his wife – and Christ gave Himself to the Church, He gave own His life for it.

I find in this light, even the more difficult part of a partnership lies with the man. How hard is it to love in such a manner that one gives oneself completely? There is no order here: if a woman submits, the man will love her. Both are equal here. This love which is demanded here, leaves no room for suppression.

Paul sees the man as head of the family in the divine order, however the man has to purchase this role at an expensive price, in that he loves the woman, honours her and gives himself completely to her.

This order represents an equal balance of honour, submission and loving, in the relationship. Whoever holds himself to this, is able to maintain a long relationship. There won't be any quarrelling or discord if each one is committed to his or her role in the relationship.

I think, with the high number of divorces in current times, we should consider again this divine order. This combination of subordination and unconditional love can cause a life partnership to turn into a true partnership.

God's blessings will be upon every marriage established on this foundation.

I wish you a blessed day

Rainer Gigerich