Kærleikur og líknsemi

Abstract

Embarking from theological and ethical reflections of Marie M. Fortune and Wendy Farley, two well-known theologians, this paper describes the connections between theology, preaching, the image of God, and the self-image of Christian women who have suffered violence. The way they interpret the violence they have suffered, can be related both to their Christian tradition and culture and their intra-psychological state. The paper emphasizes that the responsibility for the violence and abuse rests with the perpetrator. At the same time it also states that Christian tradition and theological interpretation in fact might cause the women to take responsibility on themselves, “because they deserve it or caused it.” This is why it is necessary to offer both a holistic theology and practical help from the Church to the survivors of violence against women.