Obaasima: An Akan woman of valour or a victim? From the perspective of Proverbs 31:10–31

Abstract

This study explored the cultural perception of the Akan woman in Ghana and critically evaluates the claim that she is marginalised and considered inferior to her male counterparts. Using Inculturation and Liberation Hermeneutics, along with womanist theological perspectives, the research examined selected Akan proverbs that reflect societal attitudes towards women. These findings were then juxtaposed with the values of the enterprising woman described in Proverbs 31:10–31. The study revealed that, despite outdated cultural practices, the depiction of the Akan woman as inferior is misleading. Instead, the gender-based roles within Akan society are mechanisms for shared societal responsibility.
Contribution: The article proposes a redefined paradigm of Akan womanhood that reflects dignity, capability and egalitarian partnership.