. In civilizations around the world, men seized power and established patriarchal societies. Patriarchies are societies that are characterized by "institutionalized male dominance" (French 66). Various institutions contribute to the ability of men to maintain authority in such societies. These institutions include religious organizations. As stated in Women's Realities, Women's Choices, "in societies that deny leadership roles to women, religious institutions do so too" (Hunter College 297). The religions of patriarchal societies are concerned with the worship of male deities rather than female deities. The emphasis on male deities results in women being kept "in a state of psychological dependency on men and male authority" (Foley 218).
Scholars have pointed out that "almost all religions are patriarchal in origin, development, leadership, authority, and power" (Burn 192). This is seen, for example, in the three major "Abrahamic" religions of the world: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. All three of these religions trace their roots to the ancient patriarchal leader, Abraham. In addition, all three religions are based on a belief in a monotheistic God who is described in male terms. Since God is defined as a male being, "m
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