Martha, the Hostess, and Mary, the Listener. A Discussion with the Feminist Interpretation of Luke 10:38–42

Abstract

This article examines the pericope of Luke 10:38–42 following the gender approach. It presents the contributions of E. Schüssler Fiorenza and of M. Perroni who have interpreted the passage according to a feminist approach. The former has developed some hermeneutical criteria while the latter has insisted on female discipleship, claiming that, for Luke, the women are believers but not missionaries. The article turns critically on the essential points of the two contributions, showing that a careful philological and contextual analysis does not allow the episode to be read as a representation of ministry in the Church. Instead, Mary’s behaviour appears alienating, for, placing herself the Lord’s feet, she performs an action which is surprising and not inscribed in the social canons. The episode lays stress on precisely this difference, showing that the two poles are not “service” and “listening” but “distracting preoccupations” and a “disciple’s attitude.” The behaviour of the two sisters thus functions as a mirror in which the reader is invited to discern different attitudes towards Jesus.