Haregewoin Cherinet, MPH, BTh, SRN, Gender Consultant for Health and Food Security, Researcher in Gender and Christianity

Abstract

Unequal power relations have been created among members of society based in differrent factors notably cultural backgrounds; with religion serving as cover and a strong reinforcement. Religions including the Ethiopian Orthorox Christianity have in the past been used as justification for many oppressive practices, particularly those harming women. This study was conducted to learn whether or not the church is oppressive for women as claimed; to address possible misconceptions and halt the use of the faith as cover for gender based violence; with the intention of enlisting the church's support in the fight against the problem.

The need to identify influencing factors and impact of attitudes on women's status; acknowledgment of the need for change; recognition of the church's authority and significant role in social transformation formed the foundation for the research undertaking. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used for primary data generation; and literature mainly the Bible reviewed for secondary data. Quantitative data were collected from 219 men and women purposefully sampled from 11 churches in Addis Ababa; from the clergy, Sunday school attendants and regular church goers; to include those with relatively better knowledge about church teachings.

Findings from the survey sharply contrasted with that stated in the Bible: with women seen as unequal with men including at creation; exclusively responsible for the original sin and humans still cursed because of the woman; inconsequential in their contributions to the church. These enabled to conclude that the Faithfull, unaware of the correct church teaching look down upon women. This was taken up with key informant and focussed group discussants composed of Church Fathers and shcolars; their views and explanations for the diparities obtained. Possible reasons were identified to be: Jewish and cultural influences, misinterpretation and inappropriate quotation of texts, inadequate teaching, inconsistent and biased preaching; and the church's non-involvement in human rights matters.

Five-thronged recommendations believed to address the problems were forwarded: raising awareness and enhancing women's status; engagement in biblical human rights instruction; appointment of women for administrative tasks; instituting effective and gender sensitive preaching; and building the capacity of personnel for preaching and clerical services.