REVEREND Tony Lang suspects his latest book will come as blessed relief for women – and a wake-up call for men with open minds.
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The retired Presbyterian minister, of Wangi Wangi, said the book, What the Bible really says about women, was motivated by his growing concern for women – both in and outside the church.
“The book challenges and disproves the beliefs, widely held by individuals and some denominations, that women were created by God to be subordinate to men, and are thus denied leadership roles within the church and elsewhere,” Reverend Lang said.
“And that is so demoralising for women.”
He said such beliefs had endured for centuries, in part because of interpretations of what was written in the Bible.
“But from what I have read, and going back to what various scholars have said, women were created to be equal in every way with men. There is no reason, biblical or otherwise, for gender discrimination.”
The book explores how certain words in the Bible might have been misinterpreted, and how various translations of biblical passages have perpetuated particular mindsets.
Reverend Lang holds a Masters in Theology from Newcastle University, and the extensive bibliography in his book gives an insight to the academic rigour he has applied to the new work.
“The book is academically researched, but it is very readable. It’s light. And it’s even amusing in places,” he said.
“A lot of the stories can be read simply as a good yarn.”
He said readers need not be religious to enjoy the book.
“I think that the book - among women across the board - will be greeted with joy because it tells the true story,” he said. “And men who are prepared to approach the book with an open mind will find it interesting.”
Reverend Lang conceded the book will be considered by some to be controversial: one chapter explores evidence there was a female apostle.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if I do get some criticism,” he smiled.
What the Bible really says about women is available from Wangi Post Office and Morisset Newsagency ($20). Or order online from lachlanness.com ($25 including postage).
