Jesus
Book Description
Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza presents a transformative exploration of early Christianity through the lens of feminist theology, revealing how the original Jesus movement embodied a radically different vision than what emerged in later church history. This scholarly yet accessible work traces how the liberating community that gathered around Jesus as a prophet of Divine Sophia, the powerful feminine wisdom figure from Jewish tradition, gradually disappeared into what the author terms "historical amnesia."
Drawing on extensive biblical scholarship, Fiorenza demonstrates how Woman Wisdom teachings permeated early Christian texts before being systematically obscured by male-centered interpretations and language. Rather than simply reconstructing the past, she engages in constructive theology that illuminates how these forgotten possibilities can inspire contemporary spiritual seekers and faith communities.
The book challenges readers to reimagine Christian identity beyond traditional masculine frameworks and exclusivist doctrines. By examining various Jesus traditions through the question of whether they promote liberation and justice, Fiorenza invites a fundamental reassessment of Christian origins and their potential for today's world.
This work offers both rigorous historical analysis and visionary theology, presenting the basileia, or divine realm, as a space of justice and well-being for all people. For those interested in feminist spirituality, early Christianity, or alternative approaches to biblical interpretation, this book provides tools for understanding how ancient wisdom traditions can inform contemporary spiritual practice and social transformation.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 262 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Women in Christianity
- ✓ Explore Early church
- ✓ Explore Jesus christ, prophecies
- ✓ Explore Person and offices
- ✓ Explore Feminist criticism
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Christology
- ✓ Access ancient and modern wisdom
