Jewish and Christian Women in the Ancient Mediterranean by Sara Parks, Shayna Sheinfeld, and Meredith J. C. Warren is an English-language study book that focuses on the role of women within Jewish and Christian religious life in antiquity. This academic work is intended for use in higher education and offers an accessible introduction to the field.
The book addresses the religious position of Jewish and Christian women in Hellenistic and Roman contexts. Topics include leadership, domestic rituals, women as readers and writers of texts, and innovators within their traditions. In addition, the study book provides tools such as an introductory chapter on hermeneutic approaches, a glossary, discussion questions, and practical assignments. This makes it a complete reference work for teachers and students who want to explore this subject.
Jewish and Christian Women in the Ancient Mediterranean won the 2023 Frank W. Beare Award from CSBS and received an honorable mention for Best Book in Jewish Studies from the British and Irish Association for Jewish Studies. In terms of content, it aligns with fields such as ancient history, ancient religions and mythologies, and religious studies with a focus on women.