Bibliography Author: Rivta H. Williams

This article demonstrates how using cultural anthropological insights about ancient Mediterranean life enhances a contemporary reading of biblical texts. The interaction of Jesus and Mary occurs within the context of honor-shame cultures at the nexus of gendered space (ordinarily private space becomes temporarily public for a wedding), reliance on patronage networks for access to goods and services, and unique character of mother-son relations.

In this article I demonstrate the utility of the cultural anthropological models in the exegesis of a difficult text. Here the role of women in honor-shame cultures in which there is not only a gendered division of labor but also gendered space helps us understand and evaluate Paul‘s argument for the veiling of women who pray and prophesy in the assembly.