Religious Studies

Student Scholar Symposium Abstract
Presenter(s): Zoe Shapiro
Advisor(s): Dr. Julye Bidmead
In my research project, I seek to explore whether or not Judaism functions to disadvantage women through gender ideology that is justified by divine will outlined in interpretations of the Pentateuch.  I argue that gender expectations gleaned from Genesis lie not within the Biblical text, but within the literary work of Biblical scholars. The Torah passages detailing the myths of the first woman and man have historically been interpreted as a divine indicator of clear gender differentiation.  Varying hermeneutical approaches to Genesis produce a myriad of conflicting commentary, yet traditional Jewish interpretations of the first woman and man are chiefly hierarchical in nature.  I theorize that the differences between men and women's roles within Judaism are attributed to institutionalized patriarchy perpetuated by pervasive Jewish scholarship.  A longstanding tradition of regarding women as subordinate has resulted in the restriction of women’s roles and authority within the Jewish faith.  To investigate this inquiry, I will report data production through qualitative research gathered through the conduction of interviews with Jewish women.  I chose only to interview women to amplify the voice of a historically silenced population.  To protect the identity of my interviewees, I will refer to them by assigned pseudonyms. I will also support my claims and findings with scholarly research and follow a framework of feminist methodology and theory.

The Theology of Augustine of Hippo: Refashioning Neoplatonism and Spiritual Reflections on Sacred Scripture
Presenter(s): Jarett Bilash
Advisor(s): Dr. Rafael Luévano
Few individuals have influenced the academic disciplines of religious studies and philosophy greater than fourth century Roman Catholic Bishop Augustine of Hippo (354-430 C.E.). To this day, Augustine's "Confessions" stands as a theological masterpiece, providing scholars of all stripes with an abundance of theological, philosophical, and deeply personal insights. Fundamentally, "Confessions" tells the story of an individual's lifelong and tumultuous journey from carnal sinner to Catholic saint. With Augustine's radical transformation held in mind, this thesis analyzes his intellectual and spiritual ascent to truth--truth that Augustine identifies as God himself. Specifically, this thesis attempts to answer the following questions: How did Augustine arrive at the truth of God and the Catholic Church? What were his tools for the journey? By relying on Augustine's "Confessions" and relevant scholarly work, this thesis argues that Augustine forged his path to God through two primary tools: a refashioning of Neoplatonic philosophy and fervent spiritual reflections on Sacred Scripture. In doing so, Augustine learned that his path to God was not merely intellectual. By unifying his intellectual aptitude and his spiritual longings, Augustine found fulfillment in God. His pursuit of truth demonstrates a fusion of faith and reason that is the primary methodology for Catholic theology today.

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