An analysis of 1 Cor 14:34-35 with its relevance to the ELCT-Mbulu diocese

Abstract

This thesis analyses 1Cor 14:34–35, on the background of the social world of Paul within the context of first Corinthians and, more broadly, the entire Bible, in order to find out to what the instruction in these verses to women to keep silence precisely refers. Given that in various churches the issue of granting equal roles and positions to women as to men is still problematic, the findings of this study will make a contribution to the biblical scholarship in understanding the matter. Furthermore, the results will help the church, especially the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania – Mbulu Diocese which still use the Scripture to deny women from being ordained as pastors. Thus, the study will show whether the denial of ordination and other leadership roles for women is truly scriptural or whether it is rooted in patriarchal cultures and is a result of misinterpretation of what Paul wrote. Other challenges that women face because of misinterpreting the Scripture are also addressed.