Speaking of God without the Burka of Language

Elizabeth A. Johnson, Colei che è [She Who is], Queriniana

The book, Colei che è [She Who is], has been translated into the world’s major languages, and is being republished 25 years after its first Italian edition. This edition has a new Preface by the author and an Afterword reflecting on the global reception of this pioneering work, which has set a new standard in the relationship between feminist theology and classical theology.

In this book, the theologian systematically and thoroughly analyzes the contemporary theological debate, while addressing questions such as, Is it right to use exclusively male language to speak of God? Are there alternative options? How can we attain a new vision of the mystery of Love?

If 25 years ago these questions would have provoked scandal and irritation, and they remain no less provocative today. The author asserts that, in order to achieve a new vision of the mystery of Love, we must “take off the burka of exclusively male language”.

To emphasize and concentrate the image of God in a man -as male and father- in the long run harms those who are excluded from that image, because they are subordinated, especially in certain cultures, to a man and a father. And in particular, women.

#sistersproject