In light of continuing debates over the nature of female-male dynamics and gender equality in both the church and society at large, Mignon Jacobs reconsiders what the Genesis narratives might contribute to a holistic model of human relationships (with both God and one another).

In this intriguing study, Jacobs uses the creation story of Genesis 2-3 and the patriarchal narratives that follow to develop an interpretive framework from which to consider issues of gender. Her study is divided into three sections:
• The God-human relationship, examining the relational dynamics of Genesis 2-3
• Human-to-human relationships, considering the depiction of gender in the Genesis narratives
• The female-male dynamic, exploring how the Genesis narratives can inform our reflections on contemporary gender issues

Through her insightful and careful reading of the Genesis narratives, Jacobs opens up new perspectives on the persistent struggle to achieve and maintain equitable relationships between women and men. Her work offers innovative ideas on how Scripture both informs and challenges our traditional understandings of gender, power, and persuasion in both interpersonal and corporate contexts.

With the increased presence of women in roles of leadership, both in the church and in academia, this thoughtful study provides a biblical foundation for further conversation and the development of a consistent, Christian perspective on this important subject.

Author Information: Mignon R. Jacobs (PhD, Claremont Graduate University) is associate professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary. She is the author of The Conceptual Coherence of the Book of Micah.

272 pages