THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
Do not doubt that the heritage of ancient times was rich with many courageous women. However, as it would take too long to recount the stories of all such figures, let us acknowledge a few, particularly Deborah, whose deeds are recorded in Scripture. Deborah exemplified that widows not only do not require the support of men but can serve as their protectors; it was Deborah who, undaunted by societal notions of female frailty, undertook the responsibilities of men and accomplished her tasks with success. This was during a period when the Israelites, governed by judges, could not rely on male authority for justice or protection, as warfare raged all around them. In light of these dire circumstances, they chose Deborah to guide them in governance.
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Thus, one widow, who presided over thousands of men in times of peace, also safeguarded them against their adversaries. Though many judges emerged in Israel, none had previously been a woman; and many judges flourished after the coming of Christ, yet none were prophets. This emphasizes the significance of Deborah's leadership and achievements and serves as a reminder that women should not be deterred from fulfilling roles traditionally held by men due to notions of female weakness. Here stands the widow who governs the people, the widow who commands the army, the widow who selects leaders, and the widow who strategizes in warfare while bestowing honors! Consequently, nature itself cannot be blamed for any perceived lack of strength; it is virtue that defines courage, not gender. Throughout the time of peace, this woman faced no grievances, making no errors, while many male judges stood accused of significant transgressions before the people. Therefore, as history recounts, it was a woman who inspired the spirit of women, a woman who ruled, a woman who prophesied, a woman who achieved victory, and who, amidst the ranks of warriors, commanded respect from their husbands. In a profound sense, the triumph of the Church is rooted in the strength of faith. Concerning widows,
Devora demonstrates that widows are not merely in need of male assistance but can also serve as their own safeguard. Despite societal perceptions regarding the fragility of her gender, Devora embraced the responsibilities typically assigned to men and fulfilled her obligations with great success. During a period when the Israelites were governed by judges and struggling for male leadership in matters of governance and defense amidst widespread conflict, the people chose Devora to guide them. Thus, this one widow commanded thousands during peacetime and also shielded them from adversaries. Although Israel had many judges, none before her were women, and while there were judges after Jesus, none were prophets.
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This may explain the emphasis on Devora's judgments and actions, illustrating that women ought not to be barred from taking on roles traditionally held by men due to misconceptions about female frailty. Here stands the widow who governs her people, leads armies, selects leaders, directs warfare, and allocates victories. Therefore, it is not nature that fails, nor is weakness inherent; it is not gender that defines courage but righteous character.