Beyond Male and Female? A Theological Account of Intersex Embodiment

Sam Ashton provides a foundational approach to the matter of sexual difference, drawing on biblical and doctrinal material and using resources in their original languages. He argues that the sexed body is created by God and that each chapter privileges biblical exegesis, drawing upon figures in church history. He seeks to develop an understanding that is generous, inclusive and affirming, and offers synthetic judgments about what remains essential for the "structure" of the sexed body as it travels through history. He concludes by considering ways to transition from dogmatic judgments about intersexuality to the moral-pastoral care of concrete intersex individuals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In his groundbreaking work, "The Foundations of Sexual Difference," Sam Ashton presents a compelling, coherent, and scholarly argument for a foundational approach to the issue of sexual difference. Drawing on biblical and doctrinal sources and utilizing resources in their original languages, Ashton meticulously traces and analyzes the sexed body as it evolves from creation to redemption, encompassing the present and the future. Through meticulous biblical exegesis, he incorporates figures from church history, particularly Augustine and Aquinas, to shed light on Scripture. By examining the challenges posed by intersex, Ashton aims to foster a compassionate, inclusive, and affirming understanding of sexual dimorphism. He carefully examines the writings of Thatcher, Song, and Cornwall, encouraging engagement and dialogue. With a comprehensive perspective of the entire divine drama, the book offers synthetic judgments regarding the essential aspects of the sexed body's historical trajectory and the incidental factors that influence its direction within specific theo-dramatic acts. Ashton concludes by exploring ways to transition from dogmatic judgments about intersexuality to the moral-pastoral care of concrete intersex individuals, briefly considering the complex matter of marriage. This profound and thought-provoking work contributes significantly to our understanding of sexual difference and its implications for theology, ethics, and pastoral care.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567713148