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The Patriarchy

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The website Homeschoolers Anonymous says that patriarchy is "any and every system based on male authority and dominance, one manifestation of which is Christian Patriarchy."

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Christianity can certainly be described as a patriarchal religion. The holy trinity are three male figures (a father, a son, and a holy spirit with male pronouns.) In the Old Testament, only male lineage was recored and documented, and women were not accounted for when census' were taken. Women who followed and adhered to the teaching's of Jesus were not considered disciples. Women were ostracized and isolated during their monthly menstrual cycle, and served as primary care givers for infants and young children. Men were the makers of laws, the rulers of nations, and the leaders of the early church. In the New Testament book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 14, the apostle Paul writes,"Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission." In Ephesians, chapter 5, he writes, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord."

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In The Lion King animated film, we see women portrayed in a similar role. It is repeatedly indicated that only a male lion may lead and be named king of Pride Rock. Before Simba's birth, Mufasa's younger brother, Scar, was next-in-line to lead because he was the closest male relative. Women are not considered an option to effectively lead the pride. Later in the film, when Scar has taken over as king, the hyenas are complaining about a shortage of food, and Scar angrily explains it is the lionesses job to provide food. The female lions are subservient to their male leader and though there are far more of them than males in the pride, they do not attempt to band together and overthrow Scar's reign. Instead, Nala leaves the pride to find help. Upon finding Simba, she tells him he is the only one who can save Pride Rock, by taking his place as King. 

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It could be argued that this male dominated parallel with Christianity is merely a coincidence, and The Lion King storyline is scientifically based on how real lion prides function, but that argument would not hold up. Journalist Erin Biba had this to say, after interviewing Lion expert, Craig Packer about the accuracy of The Lion King story:

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Biba's National Geographic article states that lion prides are matrilineal; They are female dominated and led, while the male lions come and go, having little to do with the success of pride life. Given this knowledge of real-life lions, it is easy to see that The Lion King is not based on how actual lions function but is incredibly similar to Christianity. 

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