AboutAlex Anatole Expertise I can answer questions about Eastern Orthodox Church history, theology, liturgics, iconography, and Eastern Orthodoxy`s relationship to other Christian and non-Christian religions.
Experience I have been an Eastern Orthodox christian since 1953, and since the age of 20 have devoted myself to Orthodox studies and aplogetics.
Organizations St Seraphim Orthodox Cathedral, Diocese of the South, Orthodox Church in America.
Publications The Dawn (Diocesan newspaper)
The Dallas Morning News (guest columnist, religion section)
Question Hi Alex,
I have been reading First Timothy and have a few questions ... I will simply refer to the passages and ask for your interpretation :
1- 1 Tim 2:13-15
Please explain ...
"Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression"
and also ...
"she will be saved through child bearing"
2- 1 Tim 6:1-2 ...
How does a slave owner being worthy of honor mesh with "all are equal in the eyes of God" philosophy ... also why are the slaves encouraged to serve their master...?
I have a commentary , more than one ... but the answers are brief and do not address my questions ...
In general I'm struggling with the issue of equality esp. slavery.
Thanks for your help
Answer Rami,
First of all, the verses you site need to be understood in the contest of the time, place, and culture in which they were written.
1Tim.2
[13] For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
[14] And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
[15] Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Indeed, Eve was deceived by the serpent. She was confused and lied to.
The Scriptures give no such excuse to Adam. I have read interpretations which point out that Adam knew better, but still ate the fruit that his wife gave him. That is why we call it the Fall of Adam and not the Fall of Eve.
As for how St Paul sees women, remember the times. A woman could not own property, inherit wealth, or testify in court. Her only role was to bear children. This defined a woman in 1st century Israel.
1Tim.6
[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
So what has changed? Are not the CEO and the janitor who mops his office both equally human in the eyes of God? Is the lowest soldier any less human than the highest general?
We all have those whom we obey and serve. Only the names of the roes have changed.
If it is our lot in life to serve, let us serve honorably. If it is our lot to wield power, let us wield it with charity and concern. Let us all, regardless of station or wealth, strive to be Christ-like.
