A Meditative Dimension of Woman's Genius

Abstract

A term “woman’s genius” was used for the first time by John Paul II during the sermon to textile workers in Łódź (Poland) in 1987. Although this expression was adopted in the apostolic letter Mulieris dignitatem (15 VIII 1988) only twice, the Pope provided an extensive explanation of it. This is woman’s special and inherent sensibility towards a human being, in whom she sees a person, and towards God. Because “Christ’s way of acting, the Gospel of His words and deeds, is a consistent protest against whatever offends the dignity of women” (n. 15). They who are close to Him discover themselves in their person dignity. A woman, and what is more a “sinful woman”, becomes a “disciple” of His. Christ speaks to women about the things of God, and they understand them; there is a true resonance of mind and heart, a response of faith. The Lord expresses appreciation and admiration for this distinctly “feminine” response – a meditative dimension of woman’s genius indeed. In the same way Mother of Jesus “treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Lk 2:19). This meditative dimension of feminine sensitivity to the person of God and man is fully revealed in Her.