Interest in the apostle Paul’s words found in 1 Timothy 2:14 for many years. Much debate surrounds Paul’s assertion that he penned almost half of the books in the New Testament as an apostle.
Some have even gone so far as to claim that the Bible treats women unfairly. Many societies have gone so far as to forbid females entirely from attending religious services. But could Paul perhaps clarify his meaning? In light of the verse below:
When Paul said he doesn’t let women speak, what exactly did he mean? Does this mean that female churchgoers have to keep their mouths shut? Is it in our best interests to let that happen, if that is indeed the case?
In this chapter, Paul also appeals to males, urging them not to sow discord or anger. The same kind of warning was necessary for females as it was for males.
Several historical sources attest that women in Paul’s day were especially self-conscious about their outward appearance (dress), which is why he instructs them to wear modest clothing to church in 2 Timothy 2:12. Paul seemed to be advocating for female subordination to male authority.
Women were denied entry to the temple and synagogues until quite recently. They disrupted services by asking a lot of questions, especially during sermons, because most of them were unfamiliar with the temples and didn’t understand what was going on.
Paul’s admonition that women keep quiet in church did not mean they could never contribute to the discussion, but rather that they should avoid being a distraction. Men were the only ones allowed in the classroom back then.
Paul was merely requesting complete submission on the part of the female audience during sermons in the Temple.
