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About this quote

What does it mean?
Joyce reinterprets the biblical verse to suggest active pursuit and possibly female agency.
In plain terms
The kingdom of heaven needs forceful action and is like a woman.
What can you take from it?
Spiritual goals require active effort.

Where it applies

  • religious study
  • literary analysis
  • sermons

Putting it to work

  • study biblical metaphors
  • explore gender in faith

Questions to consider

  • How does gender shape faith?
  • Is faith violent?

Another view

The female metaphor contrasts sharply with traditional readings.

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