Biblical Femininity

[Lanolin]

I dont think there is a mathematical formula for it if thats what you after.

There is a proverb that says about an odious woman when she is married Proverbs 30:23

I often wondered what that meant.
But then in NT Paul says for single women its better to stay single, the one who marries a virgin does well but the one who leaves the virgin as a virgin does even better, cos shes is happier.

Ive always thought if a man really loved a woman he wouldnt even want to defile her, he would let her stay pure.

This is a radical thought when many men think for a woman they have to get her laid and then bound by marriage she will be happy. No it doesnt work that way. If she already has the fullness of joy by the holy spirit, you are only trying to steal that joy if you try to possess it just for yourself.

It is like flowers, that put on a beautful display every season but if you go and pick them and try to restrict them they will be unhappy sometimes its best to leave them to do their own thing in the envrionemnt where they grow best.

 

[cinder]

One of the big challenges with ideas like Biblical womanhood or Biblical femininity is it's often poorly defined and just plain difficult to always correctly determine what ideals and examples in the Bible are cultural and which are universal. And when the universals are displayed culturally in the Bible how do we properly interpret that for our culture.

There is some good thought about this, but I'm not sure I have any answers. Honestly I don't worry too much about the big categories in reference to my life. There's plenty about how all people should live and treat each other and the Lord regardless of whether they're male, female, or confused as crap about where they fit in to such categories in a messed up modern world. I figure if I can display the fruit of his spirit and show the kind of love that doesn't despise the contribution or gifts that God gives to anyone, then I'm well on my way to being the person he'd have me be. And if he decides that some guy is going to get stuck with me as a wife, well I expect that guy will find that while I didn't have much to recommend me from a distance, character counts for a whole lot more than money or beauty or a lot of those things we look at for initial attraction.

 

[proverbs35]

So much of what we believe about femininity and masculinity is socially constructed - man made.

Feminine - characteristic of or unique to women. Merriam Webster Dictionary

So what characteristics are unique to women? In other words, what characteristics do women have that men don't?

Man was not created for woman, but woman for man. 1 Cor 11:9

God made woman (Eve) to be a helper ...
- suitable for Adam. NIV Translation
- who is just right for Adam. NLT
- fit for Adam. ESV
- corresponding (which means equal) to Adam. CSB
- suitable partner for Adam. CEV
- suitable companion to help Adam. GNT
- as his complement. HCSB

God Himself is called our helper, the same Hebrew word used for the woman in Genesis 2:18. Ezer (Strong's 5828) is used twice in the Old Testament to refer to the woman and several times to refer to God.

God our Help defends (Ex. 18:4), cares for the oppressed (Ps. 10:14), delivers from distress (Ps. 70:5), rescues the poor and needy (Ps. 72:12-14), comforts (Ps. 86:17), supports, shields, and protects (Ps. 20:2 and 33:20). God’s example reveals a high and worthy calling for women as helpers suitable to their husbands.

As we all know, men and women are biologically different. Women can bear children and breastfeed; men cannot. Child bearing and breastfeeding are unique to women. It's some of what makes women feminine. That's not saying that barren women cannot be feminine..

We don't know if Judge & Prophet Deborah
had any biological kids because the Bible does not tell us. However, we do know that Deborah took command, protecting Israel as a mother protects her children. Judges 5:7
Deborah's ability to mother a nation made her feminine and unique in a way that the male judges we're not.

Speaking of biology,

Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the WEAKER VESSEL, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Women are typically physically weaker (have less muscle mass and strength) than men. Women have softer bodies than men. On average, women have a higher percentage of body fat than men. Again, that's some of what makes women feminine and unique.

So what makes women feminine and unique - different from men?
Woman was made for man.
God and women have the same name - Ezer.
A woman's capacity to mother biologically and/or spiritually.
Women generally have less muscle mass with a higher percentage of body fat than men.

 

[Lanolin]

Why are women the weaker vessel? Is because adam was made out of dust of the earth, some say 100 pounds of clay, and Eve was made out of just one of adams rib. I dont know why the rib, but some romantics say cos it was close to his heart.

Interestingly women are not clones of men. It reminds me of sour dough how you just grab a little to make a whole new batch. And of course women are shaped differnently just like bread comes in different shapes.

 

[Mezame83]

How does a feminine woman act? Does she dress a certain way? How would you compare a Biblically feminine woman to the secular women of today?

A biblically feminine woman is clothed in humility and modest apparel. Respecting that her body is the temple of the Holy Ghost she makes it her due diligence not to grieve the Holy Spirit. She acts with humbleness of mind serving others in love, her strength doesn't come from her muscles but from her fear of the Lord and obeying His precepts. Her relationship with God shines through her countenance and deportment. She is dispassionate. How do they differ from a secular woman...in all things they glorify God, moving with the mind of Christ; something a secular woman can't do.

1 Pet 3:1-4
1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

1 Tim 2:9-10
9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

1 Cor 6:19-20
19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

 

[ArtsieSteph]

I would think that Biblical femininity would entail godliness, humbleness, and especially modesty. The last part seems to be especially hard to find, even among Christian women.

Of course in this case I mean clothing specifically. Not “it has to be this long” or “it has to be two fingers across your arm.” I mean more the general rule of not being a temptation to anyone as best you can, and wearing something flattering without being too revealing.

 

[maxwel]

I wondered if I should put this in the Ladies Forum or here. I decided to post it here because I enjoy hearing from the brothers too.

You want to hear about my femininity?

..

 

[LittleMermaid]

You want to hear about my femininity?

..

Of course!

 

[p_rehbein]

F.Y.I. ONLY

(excerpt)

Femininity is rooted in who God has created a woman to be through biological composition and inward spirit. It is not dependent on interests, hobbies, or personality. At Living Hope we focus on five main elements of biblical femininity. These are not exhaustive or exclusive, but they are the areas we focus on when helping our women grow up in their biblical call of femininity. The elements of biblical femininity we see are a relational capacity, nurturing nature, vulnerability, beauty, and responsiveness.

(found here)

https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr...mininity/RK=2/RS=EQocmKk0x4nfXSysaJaLVpqkO9k-

 

[laughingheart]

When I hear that term I think of a North American, Norman Rockwell concept of being a woman rather than a biblical image. In the bible we have Deborah who was a judge. We have the Proverbs 31 woman who ran a household, produced and sold textiles and bought and sold property. None of that would match up with the North American images of vacuuming while wearing pearls. Beauty in the bible does not exclude strength and wisdom. Beauty is being a woman whose life is marked by the fruit of the Spirit. The warmth and kindness, mercy and patience are truly beautiful. I love wearing dresses but that is not what defines feminine beauty. What does God value? This is what should define beauty. Men need to see women through the eyes of the one who made us. We also need to see men through the eyes of who made them. Being just and kind overrides waist size and manicures. Just my two cents.

 

[SoulWeaver]

I think gender is not where our focus should be, but the spirit. If we follow Jesus, our natural femininity or masculinity will play out without doubt. People try to manipulate femininity but female spirit or call it energy/vibe is different from male. A man cannot immitate the way a woman walks or sits, without this looking off or like some parody. The spirit is simply different. Especially if you draw, you know that male and female skeleton have different proportions because the chromosomes determine the ratio between the hips and shoulders, and other such things. This ratio reflects the inward difference in spirits that is given no matter if you're a typical girly girl or tomboyish. Also male back only bends in one point but female in two points... Generally the woman has the tendency to be more malleable and receptive, which can be both good and bad. This is both her strength and her weakness. She got led astray (Eve and the snake) but if she's being malleable and receptive to God, she's a force to be reckoned with... Look at the bodies, the woman is more round while the male proportion is sharper and blocky. This is the reflection of male spirit having a tendency to be more rigid and closed (the Pharisees), but also more steadfast and enduring. Again this may make one stubborn to God and unreceptive to Him or the man can be very steadfast for God and do some ministry which would be a tough task for a woman. So their respective natures do not make each better or worse, each side has strengths and weaknesses, and one complements the other.

 

[laughingheart]

I think gender is not where our focus should be, but the spirit. If we follow Jesus, our natural femininity or masculinity will play out without doubt. People try to manipulate femininity but female spirit or call it energy/vibe is different from male. A man cannot immitate the way a woman walks or sits, without this looking off or like some parody. The spirit is simply different. Especially if you draw, you know that male and female skeleton have different proportions because the chromosomes determine the ratio between the hips and shoulders, and other such things. This ratio reflects the inward difference in spirits that is given no matter if you're a typical girly girl or tomboyish. Also male back only bends in one point but female in two points... Generally the woman has the tendency to be more malleable and receptive, which can be both good and bad. This is both her strength and her weakness. She got led astray (Eve and the snake) but if she's being malleable and receptive to God, she's a force to be reckoned with... Look at the bodies, the woman is more round while the male proportion is sharper and blocky. This is the reflection of male spirit having a tendency to be more rigid and closed (the Pharisees), but also more steadfast and enduring. Again this may make one stubborn to God and unreceptive to Him or the man can be very steadfast for God and do some ministry which would be a tough task for a woman. So their respective natures do not make each better or worse, each side has strengths and weaknesses, and one complements the other.

Really well spoken. Thank you for posting.

 

[Princesse]

In my opinion, loveliness encompasses multiple spheres which include the mind, body, spirit, sexuality, deportment, and speech.

We demonstrate femininity in our attire by choosing clothing that’s well fitting and appropriate for the place or occasion we’re attending. Given the differences in proportion and silhouette, a garment that looks well on one figure may be inappropriate for the next. Understanding figure types and drape will alleviate most issues relating to modesty.

We demonstrate femininity in our gait and body language. Good posture aids the spine and communicates confidence. Smiles articulate warmth and kindness.

We demonstrate femininity in our speech by avoiding coarseness, gossip, and criticism. We seek edifying discourse, maintain confidences, and avoid pointing out other’s mistakes. Speaking the truth in love with compassion is the right approach.

We display femininity in our minds by feeding it wholesome food which strengthens us and builds up others. We avoid consuming words, images, and entertainment that diminishes our conscience and regard for ourselves and other persons. We esteem what is good instead.

We demonstrate femininity in our hearts by expressions of lovingkindness to others. We avoid discrimination, untowardness, or the absence of empathy for those who haven’t met the Lord. Humility directs our interactions and behavior.

We demonstrate femininity in our deportment through our manners, self-control and restraint. We don’t run roughshod over other people’s feeling, violate boundaries, or give voice to opinions which anger or humiliate intentionally. We treat others with respect and dignity.

We demonstrate femininity in our sexuality and its exclusiveness with our spouse. We maintain their privacy and secure their consent before disclosures are made to others. Upholding the bond of trust and oneness. We share liberally with the other. Viewing our engagement with delight and privilege. Not as drudgery or duty. We seek ways to fulfill the other and maintain the sanctity of the marriage bed from interlopers or harmful behaviors which might dampen our regard.

We demonstrate femininity through the spirit by surrendering to the Lord and ratifying our submission through time in His presence and obedience to His will. We nourish the relationship and broach Him with vulnerability and reverence. Knowing He’s aware of our concerns and seeking His ear before turning to others. He is our first love. We grow in grace and wisdom by embracing His design and purpose for our sanctification and His glory.

These are a few of the thoughts which come to mind.

 

[Deade]

In my opinion, loveliness encompasses multiple spheres which include the mind, body, spirit, sexuality, deportment, and speech.

We demonstrate femininity in our attire by choosing clothing that’s well fitting and appropriate for the place or occasion we’re attending. Given the differences in proportion and silhouette, a garment that looks well on one figure may be inappropriate for the next. Understanding figure types and drape will alleviate most issues relating to modesty.

We demonstrate femininity in our gait and body language. Good posture aids the spine and communicates confidence. Smiles articulate warmth and kindness.

We demonstrate femininity in our speech by avoiding coarseness, gossip, and criticism. We seek edifying discourse, maintain confidences, and avoid pointing out other’s mistakes. Speaking the truth in love with compassion is the right approach.

We display femininity in our minds by feeding it wholesome food which strengthens us and builds up others. We avoid consuming words, images, and entertainment that diminishes our conscience and regard for ourselves and other persons. We esteem what is good instead.

We demonstrate femininity in our hearts by expressions of lovingkindness to others. We avoid discrimination, untowardness, or the absence of empathy for those who haven’t met the Lord. Humility directs our interactions and behavior.

We demonstrate femininity in our deportment through our manners, self-control and restraint. We don’t run roughshod over other people’s feeling, violate boundaries, or give voice to opinions which anger or humiliate intentionally. We treat others with respect and dignity.

We demonstrate femininity in our sexuality and its exclusiveness with our spouse. We maintain their privacy and secure their consent before disclosures are made to others. Upholding the bond of trust and oneness. We share liberally with the other. Viewing our engagement with delight and privilege. Not as drudgery or duty. We seek ways to fulfill the other and maintain the sanctity of the marriage bed from interlopers or harmful behaviors which might dampen our regard.

We demonstrate femininity through the spirit by surrendering to the Lord and ratifying our submission through time in His presence and obedience to His will. We nourish the relationship and broach Him with vulnerability and reverence. Knowing He’s aware of our concerns and seeking His ear before turning to others. He is our first love. We grow in grace and wisdom by embracing His design and purpose for our sanctification and His glory.

These are a few of the thoughts which come to mind.

Wow! Your few thoughts on womanhood give glory to God and His decision to make women different from men. If your life reflects your words here, you are truly a treasure of a woman.

 

[Princesse]

Wow! Your few thoughts on womanhood give glory to God and His decision to make women different from men. If your life reflects your words here, you are truly a treasure of a woman. View attachment 212519

Thank you for the compliment.

It’s part of my mission and something I surrendered for His use. My upbringing and disposition compelled me to use my platform to address the subject. I put my marriage and femininity on the altar and asked Him to point the way. That was His plan all along.

He’s using everything. The years of counsel, mentoring women, and addressing relational matters. Being a light to others is very important. And being an example is equally so. Sharing openly through my marriage is inspiring.

I think we need varied depictions of womanliness. While I’m called to the marketplace, that has lessened my desire or understanding of headship and submission. I felt the same when I wasn’t with Him. I’m naturally service-oriented with my partner.

I’m one iteration of femininity but not the only one. It’s useful for the people I’m meant to reach and minister to. But other versions are equally necessary for the work they’re called to perform.

 

[jennymae]

In my opinion, loveliness encompasses multiple spheres which include the mind, body, spirit, sexuality, deportment, and speech.

We demonstrate femininity in our attire by choosing clothing that’s well fitting and appropriate for the place or occasion we’re attending. Given the differences in proportion and silhouette, a garment that looks well on one figure may be inappropriate for the next. Understanding figure types and drape will alleviate most issues relating to modesty.

We demonstrate femininity in our gait and body language. Good posture aids the spine and communicates confidence. Smiles articulate warmth and kindness.

We demonstrate femininity in our speech by avoiding coarseness, gossip, and criticism. We seek edifying discourse, maintain confidences, and avoid pointing out other’s mistakes. Speaking the truth in love with compassion is the right approach.

We display femininity in our minds by feeding it wholesome food which strengthens us and builds up others. We avoid consuming words, images, and entertainment that diminishes our conscience and regard for ourselves and other persons. We esteem what is good instead.

We demonstrate femininity in our hearts by expressions of lovingkindness to others. We avoid discrimination, untowardness, or the absence of empathy for those who haven’t met the Lord. Humility directs our interactions and behavior.

We demonstrate femininity in our deportment through our manners, self-control and restraint. We don’t run roughshod over other people’s feeling, violate boundaries, or give voice to opinions which anger or humiliate intentionally. We treat others with respect and dignity.

We demonstrate femininity in our sexuality and its exclusiveness with our spouse. We maintain their privacy and secure their consent before disclosures are made to others. Upholding the bond of trust and oneness. We share liberally with the other. Viewing our engagement with delight and privilege. Not as drudgery or duty. We seek ways to fulfill the other and maintain the sanctity of the marriage bed from interlopers or harmful behaviors which might dampen our regard.

We demonstrate femininity through the spirit by surrendering to the Lord and ratifying our submission through time in His presence and obedience to His will. We nourish the relationship and broach Him with vulnerability and reverence. Knowing He’s aware of our concerns and seeking His ear before turning to others. He is our first love. We grow in grace and wisdom by embracing His design and purpose for our sanctification and His glory.

These are a few of the thoughts which come to mind.

Well said, sister❤️

 

[Lanolin]

isnt femininity just another word for Grace.

Not many men are called Grace. But I do know a boy in school called Graceson.

Great name.

 

[Lanolin]

On Caroline Ingalls...I didnt watch much of the TV show. But I did read all the books last year.

Caroline was part of the pioneering era. By the time Laura was growing up, she saw what her mother had sacrificed and actually didnt want to be exactly like her. When Laura married, she didnt vow to obey her husband as all previous married women had done.

You dont see notice it so much in the tv show or books, but they actually did have a hard life, the dad moved around so much and Caroline was trying to raise children in relative isolation. She put her foot down and said they had to be closer to town and schools, which conflicted with the dads homesteading dreams.

It was Laura who became the breadwinner in her marriage when her husband couldnt work anymore (it was hard for men to work in those days, physically it could be back breaking) by earning money as writer. Her daughter ghostwrote or helped with much of the manuscript and lived an even more independent life.

in terms of femininity, Laura regarded herself as a bit of a tomboy and Mary her older sister was protrayed as the favoured golden child, even when she went blind. Laura was terrible at sewing and Mary was perfect. They had no brothers so I think in families of just girls one would need to be like the son. They did have a son but all the sons died young in childhood.

 

[Dino246]

isnt femininity just another word for Grace.

Not many men are called Grace. But I do know a boy in school called Graceson.

Great name.

If femininity is another word for grace, then the reverse is true. There's a problem with that: God gives gifts of His grace to men, but also condemns men who are effeminate.

Therefore, femininity is not another word for grace.