Dictionary of Feminist Theologies

Gives the traditional meanings of theological terms before expanding upon the meanings from a feminist perspective

This is a major publishing event, the result of a remarkable four-year team effort in which some 180 advisers and authors have worked to advance the growing field of feminist studies (including womanism and mujerista). Since the 1960s, a wealth of research and writing in feminist religious studies has accumulated, and the Dictionary both benefits from and contributes to this scholarship with its admirable and diverse scope. The book is indeed a dictionary of "theologies," and though its focus is Christian, Jewish feminists and women of many other faiths and ideologies share in the discussions, providing a pluralistic approach to feminist theologies. With scholarly depth and breadth, with entries from noted experts in their disciplines, the book can not help but appeal to a broad audience of laypeople, clergy and religious professionals. Introductory articles provide essential overviews of key fields. Each entry gives the traditional meaning of a term before expanding upon its meaning from a feminist perspective. Study questions, thorough cross-referencing and a bibliography will help readers steer themselves through the riches offered in a volume not only destined to be the standard scholarly reference work in its area but also likely to become a touchstone text for students of religion, women's' studies and American culture.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

This dictionary "seeks to provide guidance to readers who are interested in all areas of Christian theology as they relate to feminism." It will be useful to clergy, seminary and religious studies students, and interested lay readers. In addition to Christian theology, other theologies worldwide are covered as they relate to the continuing feminist dialogues among different religions and cultural and racial groups. Supporting this pluralistic approach, the 185 contributors come from many different countries and perspectives and draw from the related fields of social analysis, psychology, economics, history, and literature. Articles are signed, and many have bibliographic notations leading to relevant works in the extensive bibliography at the end of the book. Articles are also liberally cross-referenced.

Unlike so many dictionaries that offer only short definitions of narrow terms, entries here are each a minilesson on the subject, starting with a clear definition, followed by historical development and ramifications and, sometimes, even posing questions for readers to ponder. Contributors' enthusiasm for their subjects is apparent. As further enlightenment to readers, certain longer articles on basic topics are identified and suggested as introductory reading. Many entries are subdivided for clarity of development. One definition of feminist theology is "thinking about God that considers female human experience as significant a source for systematic reflection as male human experience." Entries here are as varied as Bat Mitzvah, Biblical Studies, Goddess, Holy Spirit, Inclusive Language, Islam, Justice and Social Change, Liturgy, Ministry, Motherhood, and Sacraments. There are no entries on persons. The editors are a professor of theology at Yale Divinity School (Russell) and an assistant professor of education (Clarkson).

This is a unique book that will serve users well in theological, academic, and public libraries. Highly recommended.