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MONDAY, OCTOBER 22:  Domestic Violence and Faith

BE INFORMED:   When considering the resources which may assist domestic violence victims during their victimization, we may think of housing, childcare, employment, and emotional support – yet an additional, perhaps overlooked, priority may be the support of their faith community.  

From the many religious people who have been abused we know that abusive tactics may include a partner mocking the victim’s faith, sabotaging or limiting the victim’s faith practices, and misusing religious texts to justify their abusive actions or demands.  Likewise, religious survivors also report that their faith beliefs can be a tremendous source of support and encouragement.  

It was been stated that “more abuse victims, perpetrators, and family members seek help from clergy and religious leaders than all other helping professionals combined.”  Faith-based organizations are uniquely poised to provide spiritual support and valuable referral information when victims disclose domestic violence.  (Horton, Anne L and Judith A. Williamson, Abuse and Religion: When Praying Isn’t Enough.  Lexington/D.C. Heath and Co., Lexington, MA 1998, p. xi).

So what do world religions say about the role of women and non-violence? And how do Christian, Muslim, and Jewish teachings guide us to understand and address domestic violence? 


TAKE ACTION:  If you’re a leader within a faith community, speak out about domestic violence. Educate your community through sermons, speeches and prayers around the subject of domestic violence, healthy marriages and relationships.  Learn more about domestic violence and how to respond through recorded webinars.

Sign and help circulate the National Declaration by Religious and Spiritual Leaders to Address Violence Against Women.

If you are a member of a faith community, talk with the leadership about opportunities to engage in work to prevent domestic violence.  Learn about domestic violence from various religious perspectives.