NCJ Number
213562
Date Published
March 2005
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article analyzes how three major world religions--Christianity, Judaism, and Islam--present both roadblocks and resources to female victims of sexual and domestic violence.
Abstract
Following the brief analysis of the roadblocks and resources presented by each religion, the authors contend that all three religions propose as a core value the preservation of marriage and the family, yet the underlying purpose is often focused on the preservation of male control of women and children. Patriarchal arrangements, the authors point out, often come at the expense of women’s and children’s safety. Despite the patriarchal ideology evident in many religious interpretations, examples from all three religious teachings are presented to support the argument that religious texts and teachings can be reinterpreted into powerful resources of strength for female victims of violence. Reinterpretations from Christianity, Judaism, and Islam will not only serve to empower victims, but can also transform the way communities respond to family violence. It is recommended that clergy learn about domestic violence and reach out to their communities to call for a response to this widespread social problem. Likewise, it is recommended that secular advocates and counselors who work with victims of violence become familiar with the importance of women’s religious backgrounds in shaping their vulnerabilities and responses to domestic violence victimization. Endnotes, references