QUESTION: Masters, I have a question about religion. All three of the Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, very clearly advocate the persecution of women, the idea that sex is evil, and the subsequent loss of feminine values. In my study of religion, I have struggled to find the origin and motivation behind this doctrine, apart from the obvious militarization of these three societies. I do know that this was not a part of the Pagan religions that preceded them. How far back does this go and who dreamed up this destructive idea? ~Jamie, USA
ANSWER: Control, control, control—that is the motivation behind the rules and regulations of any organization, whether it be religious or militaristic. Women are feared by the Abrahamic religions, whose writings are replete with sayings that the man is the one to be obeyed at all cost. The writings all originated from men and kept women ignorant of anything but what the men, particularly the religion’s leaders, proclaimed to be the women’s duty.
All these religions are monotheistic: one divinity, a man. Women were not worthy of anything but to produce more men to rule. Women were not allowed to learn to read and write. Only men from ruling families or high religious leaders were literate. They had a dynasty they wished to maintain, so they proclaimed rules that mirrored what they desired.
Corporations and governments do the same thing when they begin their existence. They restrict what a sex, nationality, or body type can be given permission to accomplish. In many countries women, or those not born in that country, even if they have lived there their entire life, are not allowed to participate in elections or hold government offices.
Pagan religions honored all life and nature. The planet is considered to be more feminine in nature because it nurtures and comforts those upon its surface. Women recognized this energy and were generally the ones who set about honoring the Mother. Because of their concern that all the children of the Earth would be taken care of, there was no need for control—just thanksgiving.
Religions of any type are simply belief systems. The soul has total freedom of choice in how to live its life. Take every belief currently in your life, examine it carefully, and see if you want it to remain as part of your identity. If not, thank it for the experiences it has allowed you, and send it on its way.