Reading the Bible for Gender in Development

Abstract

Christian relief and development organizations make frequent and overt use of Scripture in public-facing publications, internal documentation, and field-level materials. Connections between the Bible and gender equality programming within such organizations are less obvious. This is perhaps not surprising, but it is unfortunate. Recent developments in the field of biblical studies provide an opportunity for engaging the Bible through the lens of gender equality work and vice versa. Following an overview of the practice of biblical studies and an exploration of just how Scripture has been used in gender in development contexts, readings of three biblical passages illustrate the possibility of a more robust engagement with Scripture where Christian development and gender meet.