A critical examination of the intersection of patriarchy and religion in the oppression of Black South African women

Abstract

This study investigates the intersection of religion and patriarchy, examining how these systems intersect to sustain systemic limitations on women's leadership, autonomy, and agency. Using a Christian lens, the research explores women's lived experiences of these intersecting structures, focusing on how religious teachings have been historically interpreted and, at times, misused to justify the oppression of women. The study employs Kimberlé Crenshaw's (1989, 1991) intersectionality framework to analyse how gender and religion interact to reinforce patriarchal norms, particularly in the South African context. The research adopts a qualitative approach with an exploratory design, utilizing thematic and critical discourse analysis to uncover the discursive practices that perpetuate women's exclusion from leadership roles. Data was collected through non-probability sampling methods, specifically convenience and snowball sampling, involving ten Christian women aged 18 to 35 residing in Westdene, Johannesburg. The findings reveal that interpretations of religious texts, such as Paul's teachings on women's roles within the church, are selectively emphasized to maintain male dominance while neglecting more liberating messages within the same scriptures. The study contextualizes these findings within South Africa's socio-historical landscape, where religion has historically been appropriated to justify systems of oppression, such as colonialism and apartheid. However, it also acknowledges the empowering potential of faith, as evidenced by the role of religious communities in the anti-apartheid movement. The research underscores the role of faith actors in shaping societal norms and highlights the importance of religious literacy in challenging gendered power dynamics. In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which advocates for gender equality, the study recommends collaborative efforts between religious organizations, policymakers, and gender advocacy groups to promote gender-inclusive leadership and more equitable social structures. By contributing to the growing body of literature on the intersectionality of religion and patriarchy in South Africa, this research provides insights into the mechanisms that sustain gender inequality and offers pathways for fostering inclusive and empowering religious practices for women.