The phrase "the women gathered" in the context of the Bible often refers to instances where women congregate for specific purposes, whether for worship, work, or community support. This entry explores notable biblical events and contexts where women gathered, highlighting their roles and contributions within the biblical narrative.

1. Women at the Tent of Meeting:

In the Old Testament, women played a significant role in the religious life of Israel. Exodus 38:8 mentions women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting: "He made the basin of bronze and its stand of bronze from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting." These women were involved in the service and maintenance of the sacred space, indicating their active participation in the spiritual life of the community.

2. Ruth and the Women of Bethlehem:

The Book of Ruth provides a poignant example of women gathering in support and celebration. When Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem, the women of the town gathered to welcome them. Ruth 1:19 states, "So the two of them went on until they came to Bethlehem. And when they arrived in Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them, and the women exclaimed, 'Can this be Naomi?'" Later, these same women would celebrate the birth of Obed, Ruth's son, acknowledging God's provision and blessing (Ruth 4:14-17).

3. Women at the Crucifixion and Resurrection:

In the New Testament, women are prominently featured in the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Matthew 27:55-56 notes, "And many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to minister to Him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons." These women gathered at the cross, demonstrating their loyalty and devotion to Jesus.

Furthermore, women were the first to witness the resurrection. In Matthew 28:1, it is recorded, "After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb." Their gathering at the tomb and subsequent encounter with the risen Christ underscores their pivotal role in the resurrection narrative.

4. Women in the Early Church:

The early Christian community also saw women gathering for prayer and fellowship. Acts 1:14 describes the disciples, along with certain women, gathering in the upper room: "They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers." This gathering highlights the integral role women played in the nascent church, participating in prayer and the communal life of believers.

5. Lydia and the Women of Philippi:

Acts 16:13-15 recounts the account of Lydia, a prominent woman in Philippi, who gathered with other women by the river for prayer. "On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there." Lydia's conversion and hospitality were instrumental in the establishment of the Philippian church, demonstrating the impact of women's gatherings in spreading the Gospel.

Throughout the biblical narrative, gatherings of women are depicted as moments of spiritual significance, community support, and divine encounter. These gatherings reflect the active and vital participation of women in the unfolding account of God's people.