She was known as a whore and a saint. On today’s episode, Amy Frykholm talks to us about the elusive Saint Mary of Egypt, and how she can teach women to reclaim their autonomy today.
Show Notes: Faith and Feminism Podcast – Episode with Amy Frickholm on “Wild Woman”
Episode Overview:
In this enlightening episode, host Meghan Tschanz welcomes Amy Frykholm to discuss her compelling book “Wild Woman,” which explores the life of Mary of Egypt—a figure who embodies resilience and transformation. At just 12 years old, Mary leaves her home and embarks on a tumultuous journey, ultimately finding spiritual enlightenment and liberation as a hermit in Jerusalem.
Main Themes:
-
Women’s Complex Roles in Christianity:
- Frykholm emphasizes the intricate and often overlooked roles of women within Christian narratives. Through the lens of Mary of Egypt’s story, she highlights the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history, urging a reevaluation of patriarchal perspectives.
-
Heritage and Spiritual Essence:
- The episode celebrates Mary’s African heritage and her profound spiritual essence, drawing connections to a poem from the Nag Hammadi library that critiques traditional patriarchal narratives.
-
Historical vs. Modern Experiences:
- The discussion contrasts the lived experiences of ancient women with those of figures like Julian of Norwich, linking historical challenges faced by women to contemporary issues of rights and health.
-
Resilience and Autonomy:
- Frykholm advocates for the recognition of marginalized individuals’ resilience, emphasizing that women’s actions often stem from survival instincts rather than mere sexual intent. The episode critiques societal judgments against assertive women and calls for a reevaluation of women’s autonomy.
-
Personal Anecdotes and Societal Critique:
- The conversation includes personal stories that illustrate the societal judgments faced by strong women, such as Kamala Harris, and challenges the notion that suffering is a prerequisite for holiness.
-
Symbolism and Empowerment:
- Symbolism surrounding feet in biblical tradition is explored, revealing deeper connections to sensuality and empowerment, which resonate with the themes of healing and beauty in nature.
-
Finding One’s Voice:
- Frykholm shares her journey of self-discovery and finding her voice amid opposition, emphasizing the healing power of nature as a source of resilience and strength.
Conclusion:
The episode wraps up with heartfelt appreciation for Frykholm’s insights, and references to various literary works that reinforce the ongoing themes of beauty, healing, and empowerment through nature. This conversation not only sheds light on Mary of Egypt’s transformative journey but also calls for a broader understanding of women’s experiences and their vital contributions to spirituality and society.
Tune in to explore the intersections of faith, feminism, and the stories that shape our understanding of identity and resilience!