DECODING THE POWER OF FEMININITY

THE ROLE OF A WOMAN AS A HELPER: APPRECIATING FEMININITY

The idea that "a man is weak by himself; and that he is deficient" touches on a profound truth about human nature and relationships. From the very beginning, humanity was designed for connection, companionship, and cooperation. The notion that man, in his original state, required a helper, and that God fulfilled this role before creating woman, presents a rich philosophical and spiritual narrative. It highlights the intrinsic need for partnership in fulfilling one's purpose in life.

The Divine Design: Man’s Need for a Helper

I was raised in a christian family. My Mom and my grandparents would not have it if you did not attend Sunday school or participate in church functions. Their love to serve God and church drew my curiosity in studying the bible in depth at a very tender age and one of the stories I loved was the creation story, which I had so many questions about and it got me into trouble so many times. In the creation story, God formed man in His own image, giving him life, purpose, and dominion over the earth. However, despite his unique position, man was incomplete. God, recognizing this, became man’s first helper, guiding him and providing for his needs. God being God from a point of all knowing and powerful, he guided man from a point of authority, yet, God's intent was for man to experience a more tangible, earthly companionship—one that would reflect the divine relationship in a human context, departing from the original set up but still achieving the same goal.

This led to the creation of a woman, not as a subordinate, but as a partner uniquely designed to complement and assist man in fulfilling his God-given purpose. The concept of woman as a helper is rooted in the idea of mutual support and interdependence. You see, there is dependence and there is codependency; and then there is interdependency, which is not about dominance or inferiority but about completing a divinely orchestrated partnership autonomously.

The True Meaning of “Helper”

The term "helper" can sometimes be misunderstood as implying a lesser or subordinate role. However, in the original biblical language, the word used for "helper" is "ezer," a term that also describes God’s role as a helper to humanity. In this context, being a helper is a position of strength, support, and essential partnership.

A helper is someone who comes alongside another to provide what is lacking, to strengthen, and to enable the fulfillment of a mission. Just as God is not diminished by helping humanity, a woman is not diminished by being a helper to a man. Instead, she plays a crucial role in ensuring that both individuals can reach their full potential, fulfilling the purpose for which they were created.

Companionship Over Authority

God’s creation of a woman was a deliberate act to emphasize the importance of companionship over authority. While God could have continued to serve as man’s sole helper, He chose to create a human counterpart, underscoring the need for intimate, personal relationships that reflect love, respect, and unity.

This companionship is vital for the fulfillment of man’s purpose. A man’s journey in life, with all its challenges and responsibilities, is enriched and supported by the presence of a woman who shares in his mission. This partnership is designed to be one of mutual respect and collaboration, where both man and woman contribute their unique strengths and perspectives.

The Role of a Woman in Fulfilling Purpose

In fulfilling his God-given purpose, a man benefits immensely from the wisdom, intuition, and support of a woman. Her role as a helper is not about doing menial tasks or serving in a lesser capacity. It is about being a co-laborer in the mission, offering insight, encouragement, and a complementary perspective that helps navigate the complexities of life.

The woman’s role is also one of nurturing and fostering the relationship, ensuring that both partners remain connected and aligned with their shared goals. In this way, the purpose of man is not just his alone but becomes a shared journey, with both man and woman contributing to the fulfillment of their collective destiny.

When we explore the narrative of a woman as a helper within the framework of Kundalini; a concept deeply rooted in ancient Indian spiritual traditions, it aligns beautifully with the idea of spiritual partnership, balance, and the journey towards higher consciousness. In Kundalini, the masculine and feminine energies are often represented by Shiva and Shakti. Shiva represents the masculine, static consciousness, while Shakti represents the dynamic, creative force of the feminine. These energies are not opposed but complementary. Together, they embody the totality of existence and are essential for spiritual growth.

The feminine energy, Shakti, is the force that activates and guides the Kundalini energy up the spine, awakening each chakra and bringing about spiritual enlightenment. Without Shakti, Shiva remains dormant; without the dynamic force of the feminine, the potential of the masculine cannot be realized. So, even within the Kundalini framework, a woman can be seen as embodying the Shakti energy, the vital force that helps the masculine (Shiva) fulfill its potential. This perspective casts the woman’s role as a helper in a deeply spiritual light, not as a subordinate but as an essential partner in the journey towards enlightenment and fulfillment.

In ancient African traditions and spirituality, the role of women has been deeply revered and appreciated, often embodying the essence of the divine feminine. These cultures recognized the importance of balance between masculine and feminine energies, with women playing essential roles as life-givers, nurturers, spiritual guides, and custodians of wisdom. The view of a woman as a helper or equal partner to man was not seen as demeaning but rather as a reflection of the natural order and the divine balance that sustains life.

In some cultures, such as among the Yoruba of Nigeria, the goddess Osun represents beauty, love, and fertility, while also being a protector and provider of prosperity. Similarly, in Egyptian mythology, goddesses like Isis were revered as powerful figures who nurtured, protected, and guided both gods and humans. In many African cultures, women were the primary custodians of spiritual knowledge and practices. They were often healers, priestesses, and diviners, entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the spiritual health of the community. Their deep connection with nature and the spiritual world was recognized and respected, making them essential figures in rituals and ceremonies.

For example, among the Akan people of Ghana, the Queen Mother (Ohemmaa) played a critical role in the spiritual and political life of the community. She was seen as the embodiment of wisdom and was responsible for guiding the king and ensuring the well-being of the people.

?In other African traditions, the universe is believed to be born from the union of male and female principles, with neither being superior to the other. This belief extended to societal roles, where men and women were seen as complementary partners in life, each contributing their unique strengths to the collective well-being. The Dogon people of Mali, for instance, hold that the world was created through the union of Amma (the sky god) and the earth, symbolizing the sacred marriage between male and female energies. This balance is seen as the foundation of life and is reflected in the roles men and women play within the community.

A Partnership Rooted in Love and Respect

Understanding the role of a woman as a helper requires a shift in perspective from hierarchical thinking to one of partnership. It is a relationship rooted in love, respect, and mutual dependence. Both man and woman are created with unique qualities that, when brought together, create a powerful and balanced union in an autonomous way.

This partnership allows both individuals to thrive, not just in their personal development but also in their collective purpose. It is in this union that the fullness of God’s plan for humanity is realized—a plan that honors the dignity and worth of both man and woman.

SO, DEAR WOMAN:

The idea that a woman was created as a helper to man is a concept that, when properly understood, elevates rather than diminishes her role. It reflects a divine design where man and woman are interdependent, each bringing something essential to the relationship. In this partnership, man is empowered to fulfill his God-given purpose, not through control or authority, but through the support, wisdom, and companionship of a woman who stands as his equal partner in roles.

This perspective invites us to view relationships as sacred partnerships where both individuals are valued, respected, and crucial to the fulfillment of each other's destinies. It is in this union of strengths, with God at the center, that the true purpose of life is fulfilled, reflecting the divine image in a powerful and beautiful way.

It is therefore very important for a woman to position herself as divinely created so that the expectation of her significance is not questioned but appreciated. In today’s world, the roles of men and women are constantly evolving, and modern views of femininity often challenge traditional perspectives. However, for a woman who wishes to be appreciated by a man while maintaining the essence of her traditional role, it is important to strike a balance between embracing modern values and honoring the timeless principles that have sustained relationships across generations. This balance allows a woman to maintain her dignity, strength, and individuality, while also being a supportive and respected partner. This can be achieved through the following:

1. Embrace Your Unique Strengths

One of the most important aspects of being appreciated by a man is to embrace the unique strengths that come with being a woman. Femininity is not about weakness; it is about grace, empathy, emotional intelligence, and resilience. These qualities are highly valued in relationships and can complement the strengths of a man. By confidently embracing these traits, a woman can create a harmonious dynamic where both partners feel valued and supported.

• Emotional Intelligence: Women often excel in understanding and managing emotions, which is a critical component of a healthy relationship. By using emotional intelligence to navigate challenges and foster communication, a woman can build a strong, trusting bond with her partner.
• Nurturing Nature: While modern views may sometimes downplay the importance of nurturing, it remains a powerful and appreciated quality. Whether it’s through caring for others, fostering a loving environment, or supporting a partner’s dreams, nurturing is a strength that should be celebrated.

2. Communicate Openly and Respectfully

Appreciation in any relationship begins with clear and respectful communication. A woman who wishes to be appreciated should express her thoughts, feelings, and needs in a way that fosters understanding and connection. This does not mean being passive or overly accommodating, but rather being assertive in a way that also respects the man’s perspective.

• Express Appreciation: Mutual appreciation is key in a relationship. By acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of her partner, a woman can encourage reciprocity, leading to a relationship where both feel valued.
• Set Healthy Boundaries: Respectful communication also involves setting boundaries that honor one’s values and needs. By clearly communicating what is acceptable and what is not, a woman can maintain her dignity while ensuring that the relationship remains healthy and balanced.

3. Reject Toxic Modern Narratives

While it is important to adapt to modern realities, it is equally important to reject toxic narratives that undermine the role of women in relationships. Some modern views of femininity promote independence to the point of isolation, discouraging the interdependence that is essential for a healthy relationship. It’s crucial for a woman to discern which aspects of modern femininity align with her values and which do not.

• Avoid Extreme Independence: While independence is important, extreme independence can lead to a disconnect in relationships. Healthy relationships thrive on mutual support and reliance, where both partners can lean on each other.
• Resist the Pressure to Conform: Society often pressures women to conform to certain ideals, whether it’s being overly assertive or dismissing traditional roles. A woman should feel empowered to define her femininity in a way that aligns with her values and contributes to a strong, fulfilling relationship.

4. Cultivate Mutual Respect and Partnership

For a woman to be truly appreciated, the relationship must be built on mutual respect and partnership. This means recognizing the value of both masculine and feminine qualities and how they complement each other. In a relationship where both partners feel respected and understood, appreciation naturally follows.

• Acknowledge Each Other’s Roles: Whether in a traditional or modern context, acknowledging and valuing each other’s roles is essential. By showing respect for the man’s role and expecting the same in return, a woman can foster a partnership that is balanced and harmonious.
• Work Together Towards Shared Goals: Relationships thrive when both partners are working towards shared goals. By aligning her aspirations with those of her partner, a woman can create a sense of unity and purpose in the relationship, leading to greater appreciation and mutual support.

5. Embrace Feminine Power

True feminine power lies in the ability to balance strength with compassion, independence with connection, and self-respect with respect for others. A woman who embodies these qualities is likely to be appreciated not only for what she does but for who she is. This kind of power does not diminish the role of a man but rather enhances it, leading to a partnership where both individuals feel empowered and valued.

• Be Confident in Your Feminine Identity: Confidence in one’s femininity is attractive and commands respect. By being proud of her feminine identity and the unique qualities it brings to a relationship, a woman can inspire appreciation and admiration from her partner.
• Empower Through Support: Supporting a partner does not mean diminishing oneself. By empowering a man through encouragement and collaboration, a woman can create a dynamic where both partners thrive.

A man must seek to understand this balance in equal measure as a woman because there could be and there are many men who abuse their position and roles out of ignorance or misinterpretation of such ideas as of masculinity. A man is born of a woman; a man is born with a woman; a man is born by a woman; and a man, is a woman - genotypically and spiritually, so, when a woman is elevated and placed on top of the mountain a man will climb it to his glory and glory of God, And true it is when a woman is belittled and left at the bottom of the valley, for a weak man, even many strong men will fall as they will later along the way climb down to her; not necessarily to bring her up but to find solace and comfort in weakness. And for a? woman who seeks to be appreciated by a man while maintaining her divine role can do so by cultivating her feminine power the correct way. By balancing tradition with the realities of modern life, she can create a relationship that is fulfilling, respectful, and deeply appreciated by both partners. This approach not only honors the timeless principles that have sustained relationships for generations but also adapts to the changing dynamics of today’s world, ensuring that the woman’s role remains strong, respected, and integral to the relationship’s success.