Woman, even more than man, is a fetich worshipper, and…
““Woman, even more than man, is a fetich worshipper, and though her idols may change, she is ever on her knees, ever holding up her hands, ever blind to the fact that her god has feet of clay. Thus woman has been the greatest supporter of all deities from time immemorial. Thus, too, she has had to pay the price that only gods can exact,—her freedom, her heart’s blood, her very life. Nietzsche’s memorable maxim, “When you go to woman, take the whip along,” is considered very brutal, yet Nietzsche expressed in one sentence the attitude of woman towards her gods. Religion, especially the Christian religion, has condemned woman to the life of an inferior, a slave. It has thwarted her nature and fettered her soul, yet the Christian religion has no greater supporter, none more devout, than woman. Indeed, it is safe to say that religion would have long ceased to be a factor in the lives of the people, if it were not for the support it receives from woman. The most ardent churchworkers, the most tireless missionaries the world over, are women, always sacrificing on the altar of the gods that have chained her spirit and enslaved her body.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Goldman argues that women, despite being oppressed by religion, become its most fervent supporters, sacrificing themselves for a system that subjugates them.
In simple terms: Women are both oppressed and essential to religion’s endurance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge the paradox of women’s role in oppressive systems.
Themes
oppression
religion
gender
sacrifice
paradox
Mood
conflicted
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- missionary work
- personal faith
- social movements
Key Concepts
feminist critique
social dynamics
power structures
Questions to Reflect On
- How do women navigate faith and oppression?
- Can religious institutions be reformed from within?
A Different Perspective
The argument may overgeneralize women’s experiences across cultures and religions.