Introduction The present essay focusses on several verses in a paragraph in Paul’s first letter to Timothy: 1 Timothy 2:8-15 I desire, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument; 9 also that the women should dress themselves modestly and decently in suitable clothing, not with their hair braided, or with gold, pearls, or expensive clothes, 10 but with good works, as is proper for women who profess reverence for God. 11 Let a woman 1 learn in silence with full submission. 12 I permit no woman to teach or to have authority over a man; 2 she is to keep silent. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. 15 Yet she will be saved through childbearing, provided they continue in faith and love and holiness, with modesty. (New Revised Standard Version—and throughout) Much has been written on 1 Timothy 2.8-15 in recent decades because