Theology of Justice and Gender Violence: A Contribution from Contextual Reading about “The Levite's Concubine” and “The Woman Accused of Adultery”

Abstract

This article provides a critical reading about gender violence from a theology of justice based on Contextual Bible Reading of “The Levite and the Concubine” (Judges 19) and “The Woman Accused of Adultery” (Jn 7,53-8,11) carried out by five women’s communities located in two Colombian regions. The research, conducted within participatory action research framework, contributed to the recovery of the participants’ knowledge and their empowerment to change the reality. In addition, the reception and appropriation of the biblical texts, together with the approach to their socio-historical elements, allowed them to become aware of their vulnerability in a macho culture, of their submission and objectification as forms of control by men, and of their dignity stained by patriarchalism. The findings made it clear that a theology of justice in reference to the Gospel makes a choice for the impoverished, excluded, and marginalized people, so that they can become political subjects capable of achieving a more just, equitable, and dignified life.