73%
Confidence
Belief overview
Spiritual equality between persons
The tradition emphasizes equal spiritual dignity and moral value of all persons.
3
Supportive
0
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: Quakerism affirms strong spiritual equality between human beings before God.
How the tradition understands it: This conviction sustained critiques of rigid social hierarchy, sexism, slavery, and forms of deference considered contrary to moral truth.
Basis and context: From early on, women exercised relevant ministry among the Friends, and the tradition acquired a reputation for its critique of absolutized social distinctions.
Debates and variations: The practical application of equality varied historically and was not always immediate or uniform in all meetings.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
Galatians 3:28
A classic text on equality in Christ.
Reference: Galatians 3:28.
Content: The verse affirms that in Christ social and sexual distinctions have no value for basic spiritual dignity.
Use in debate: It is important for the Quaker emphasis on spiritual equality and the participation of women.
John Woolman, Journal
John Woolman's diary is one of the great sources of the Quaker social testimony.
Reference: John Woolman's Journal.
Content: Woolman articulates inward spirituality, critique of slavery, simplicity, and economic and moral responsibility.
Use in debate: It is one of the most important sources for service, social justice, equality, and simplicity in the Quaker tradition.
Margaret Fell, Women's Speaking Justified
A classic text in defense of women's ministry among Friends.
Reference: Margaret Fell, Women's Speaking Justified.
Content: Fell defends biblically the legitimacy of speech and ministry by women in the Christian community.
Use in debate: It is one of the most important Quaker sources for spiritual equality and women's ministry.