Speaking out: an analysis of the markan characterization of the Greek Syrophoenician woman

• Main Author: Roberts, Margaret Joyce
• Language: English
• Published: 2009
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2429/9056

Consensus is rarely reached about the meaning of Mk 7:24-30 except to say that it addresses Jew-Gentile relations, that Jesus' metaphor is crucial to understanding the scene, that Jesus' initial response to the woman seems harsh, and the woman's actions and words are counter-cultural within a first century context. After a review of the exegetical literature, there are nuances in Mk 7:24-30 that are not adequately explained; many concern the protagonist in the scene, namely, the Greek Syrophoenician woman. Narrative criticism is useful in analyzing the characterization of the woman, bringing to light some possible explanations about these unexplained subtleties within the text. In this narrative critical exegesis of Mk 7:24-30, the characterization of the Greek Syrophoenician woman reveals her transitional role in Jesus' mission to the Gentiles. For a female minor character, she is well-developed, with the traits of a bold and active suppliant with faith, who is understanding, intelligent and witty. The Greek Syrophoencian character's dialogue with Jesus is unique to Mark on three counts: it is the only example of the Markan narrator providing a woman's words to Jesus in first-person dialogue form; it is the only example of anyone besting Jesus in a debate; and it is the only example of anyone changing Jesus' mind. Jesus' metaphor of the 'children' (Jews) receiving their 'bread' (life-giving sustenance) before the 'dogs' (Gentiles) resonates on various levels when the reader understands its first century context (including the socio-political relationship between the Tyrians and the Galileans, and the ancient Near Eastern use of dogs in healing rituals). The woman's response to Jesus shifts his view of the Gentiles, so that he renews and expands his activities among them. The Greek Syrophoenician woman speaks out, is heard and understood by Jesus, and that makes all the difference not only in the lives of her and her daughter, but also within the Gentile world of the Gospel of Mark.