Introducing Womanist Theology

by Stephanie Y. Mitchem

Introducing Womanist Theology demonstrates how theology by women of color is firmly rooted in their varied life experiences. By participating fully in the construction of theology instead of simply learning theology from others, black women are able to analyze church teachings, develop meaningful systems of ethics, and challenge ecclesiastical structures, if needed. Introducing Womanist Theology describes the unique experiences of African American women and explores not only what theology is, but how it is constructed. It lays out the major components of womanist theology while showing the close links between womanist theology and womanist ethics. By examining some of its major contributors and exploring challenges it faces, including relationships with feminist and black theologians, Introducing Womanist Theology provides a thorough and accessible entree into this vibrant comtemporary theology.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Religion, Race

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Melodie Roschman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A concise, very clearly written and easy to read introduction to Womanist theology. A lot of the background concepts were familiar to me already, and it was sometimes repetitive, but this was extremely accessible and included a lot to excellent discussions of the larger field.

[Michelle Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good concise read for someone who wants to know what Womanist Theology is

[Micah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid enough intro to womanist theology. As someone who is already familiar with the field, much of this book was a retread of information I already knew from other works, but if you do not know anything about womanist theology, I would recommend this as a good introductory text. One thing I will commend this book for is that it did point me to other writers and books that I have not previously heard of.

Two criticisms though: I would have appreciated a bibliography of further reading in the back and since this book is over a decade now, an updated version would be great accounting for new developments and new waves of womanist thought that have happened since this book's original publication.