The literal meaning of patriarchy is “the rule of the father.” Historically, the term refers to autocratic rule by men. Today it more generally refers to social systems in which men hold the positions of power in organized society and individual relationships. The normal condition for a vast majority of women in a patriarchal culture is subordination to men, with a husband, brother, or son serving as total authority over his wife and children.

The realities of women in patriarchal societies—in ancient times and today—may be very different than the way you were raised. In a TedTalks presentation, Palestinian father and educator Yousafzai Ziauddin describes his daughter’s struggle to be educated, his support and encouragement, and the price of her efforts for empowerment. [http://www.ted.com/talks/ziauddin_yousafzai_my_
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Ziauddin explains the expectations of obedience for women and honor for men—precepts which he states “put women in a prison from which there is little chance for escape.”

The women in the book Less Than a Widow also struggled for empowerment. Ruth, Rahab, and Tamar were deferential and submissive to their elders at one moment, but they boldly and assertively broke the rules the next. Even within their patriarchal culture, they found ways to redress power imbalances and gain more autonomy to manage their own lives.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

• Describe a situation in your life where you are subordinate to someone else who is in a position of power of you because of your age, position, job, education, status, etc. How do you react to and interact with those in authority over you?
• Naomi initiated the plan to approach Boaz with a marriage proposal; Ruth submitted but made some subtle alterations. What was the difference? Were both plans a shift toward empowerment?
• What was it about Boaz that made both Ruth and Naomi willing to put their lives in his hands?
• Do you think that Boaz and Ruth’s faith in Yahweh guided their actions? How and why?
• Did Boaz’s responses to Ruth’s requests indicate permission only or did he actively promote Ruth’s efforts?
• Could Rahab’s entry into prostitution be viewed as a move toward empowerment? If so, how?