Theology Does Help Women’s Liberation:

Srivaisnavism, A Hindu Case Study

Abstract

Katherine K. Young’s “Theology Does Help Women’s Liberation: Srivaisnavism, A Hindu Case Study” examines how Srivaisnava theology historically uplifted women, countering the decline in women's status seen in earlier Brahmanical traditions. Young traces this decline to socio-economic changes and patriarchal codification of norms like pativratya and widowhood. In contrast, Srivaisnavism, especially through its Tamil devotional roots, emphasized universal salvation through prapatti (surrender), granting moksha to all, regardless of gender or caste. The tradition revered the Alvars, including a woman (Antal), and promoted equality through theological inclusivity. Comparing the Tenkalai and Vatakalai sects, Young shows both ultimately affirm women’s spiritual agency, despite differences in doctrinal emphasis. She concludes by exploring possible motives behind this egalitarian shift, such as Tamil cultural pride and the need to counter heterodox movements.