Customer Reviews

Hidden Voices: Biblical Women and Our Christian Heritage

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I can't recommend this book enough. I came from a background that emphasized a patriarchal church environment and always felt somewhat disheartened that my voice was not being listened to in my church. After reading Heidi Bright Parales' book, I better understand the role that women have definetely played in the Christian church. I also understand, through Parales' extensive historical and linguistic research, how those in leadership roles might have misinterpreted the role of both sexes in Christian worship. After reading this book, I came away rejuvenated, and very much enlightened. I learned a great deal from reading Hidden Voices and would strongly suggest it to any woman who is seeking both an inspiring account of women who shaped Christianty and a better understanding of the role she plays within her faith.

Heidi Bright Parales, a graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, spent five years searching through almost 100 books and articles to prepare this provocative and exciting account of the many women in the bible. The lives and actions of these women provide contemporary women with role models of equality with men. Beginning with the Adam and Eve story, Parales traces back to the original language to dispel the numerous false assumptions that have arisen from the English interpretations of the bible. This is a must for all Christian women today. camille miller

I agree with the other laudatory reviews. I add that this book is useful for non-Christians, too. Those who grew up in the Christian tradition but left it at least partly because of the sexism will find interesting material for re-evaluating their decision. Those who were never Christian should also read this book because the sexist interpretation of the bible has been a dominant force in European and US culture. Everyone who wants to understand our society should read this book.

In this book, Heidi Bright Parales has answered my most heart-wrenching questions regarding "women's issues" according to the correct translation and interpretation of the Bible. Her research, both linguistic and historic--and her presentation of the findings--clarify some of the most highly disputed passages in the Bible: from the creation story and Eve (the truth is an "earth creature" was made first, designated neither male nor female!) to Paul's perspective on women (he was actually a radical feminist in his time!), to the prominent females from both testaments who are frequently glossed over, to Jesus' view of women.

Chapters cover topics from the male and female images of God to women's roles to the abuse of women, and how much negative treatment of women has unfortunately been justified by erroneous translation and interpretation. Ms. Parales does much eye-opening here, and she does it in an extremely thorough manner. She even provides application through reflection questions at the end of each chapter, so this book could be used as a study guide for individuals or groups.

Highest praise to Hidden Voices for shedding the light of truth on so many misconceptions! This book has vital implications for all of us, women and men, families and churches. I highly recommend it, and have given out copies to friends and family. Hidden Voices is consistently informative, readable and applicable.