Sexual Scandal and Uncovering Shame

In this episode, we explore the genealogy of Jesus and the inclusion of “scandalous” women in the biblical narrative. Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, Tamar, and Mary. We dive extra into Rahab’s story, emphasizing her transformation from a sex worker to a great-(great…great…)grandmother of Jesus. The impact of Jesus’ family tree on his worldview and his encounters with scandalous women are discussed. The conversation also delves into the sanitization of biblical stories and the harm it can cause. We get into the power dynamics of controlling sexuality and the intersection of shame and silence. And finally, we talk about the importance of telling our own stories and embracing embodied spirituality.

Takeaways

• The genealogy of Jesus includes scandalous women, challenging traditional notions of purity and righteousness.
• Sexual scandal has often been used as a means of maintaining power and control.
• The sanitization of biblical stories can lead to the erasure of the fullness and complexity of women’s experiences.
• Embracing our sexuality and desires can lead to a more embodied and inclusive spirituality.

Chapters

(01:56) The inclusion of women in the genealogy

(03:25) The story of Rahab and his significance in the genealogy

(05:19) The impact of Jesus’ family tree on his worldview

(06:47) Jesus’ encounters with scandalous women and how sexual scandal is a threat to political power

(08:48) The sanitization of biblical stories and the complexity of biblical characters

(11:00) The importance of telling our own stories

(13:56) The intersection of shame and silence

(16:06) The inclusion of scandalous women in scripture and exploring sexuality and gender in the Bible

(18:43) The control of bodies and desires for power

(21:28) The fixation on certain sexual issues

(22:23) Reflecting on personal sexual histories

(24:52) Releasing shame and embracing embodied spirituality

(29:18) Creating space for sexuality and desire in spirituality

(30:16) Announcement: Soulful Sexuality Course

Resources:

• Learn more and join Soulful Sexuality
• Join Spiritual Study Hall
• Join the Sanctuary Collective Community
• In the Margins: A Transgender Man’s Journey With Scripture by Fr. Shannon TL Kearns

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