Genesis 23 — Thoughts

Is the Bible Part of the Patriarchy?

For a simple account of Sarah's death, this chapter actually has a couple of profound things to teach us.

1.) The Bible Is about Real People

Here, we see a man mourning for his wife. Losing loved ones is a universal experience, and that makes it a deeply human experience. The stories in the Bible aren't about superheroes. They're about human beings. Human beings who strive, mess up, grow, and suffer loss. This means the Bible speaks directly to us where we are. It's the Word of God, but it addresses our hearts directly. In all our human brokenness, it speaks to us.

2.) The Bible Honors Women

Christianity is often accused of being a part of the patriarchy, as though it somehow elevates men above women. But those who make these accusations don't appreciate how much our modern, progressive culture has benefited from the influence of the biblical worldview. The Bible elevates women in ways that were countercultural to its historical contexts. Here, Sarah's death is mourned. Later, the names of women who supported Jesus' ministry are given in honor (Luke 8:1-2). And we can't forget that, in Christ, men and women are made equal (Galatians 3:28).

I love that the Word of God — the Word that lights our paths, brings us life, and will never pass away — is a Word that empathizes instead of condescending and elevates instead of oppressing. It's a Word for both men and women, and it's a Word for all humanity.⁠

(Originally written July 11, 2020)