My art titled “Lilith, the First Feminist” represents the untold story of the very start of women’s independence and empowerment. According to Jewish mythology, Lilith was Adam’s first wife but was later exiled from the Garden of Eden. As I was born and raised under a religious indoctrination, Lilith’s name was not once said unless when describing her as a demon; Her image was not allowed to be questioned because she was perceived as a negative spirit and that was the end of discussion. Upon gaining my own beliefs, I came upon her name again through an astrological chart reading to which I yearned to uncover her true character. Much like the common theme we see today as women, Lilith was damned for demanding gender equality, for refusing to be under Adam. Her story, let alone her intentions, were erased and never got the same treatment as other biblical tales. Why is that? Because her story did not align with the patriarchal structure of the Roman Church and Western churches. Instead, the story of Adam and Eve overshadowed Lilith’s story, and even still, men managed to antagonize Eve to instill fear and promote obedience upon the rest of women. On one hand, Lilith is a reminder of the constant demonization women endure simply for wanting to be represented equally. But when you look closer, you realize that Lilith wears her golden horns as a crown. Although men have labeled her as an out-of-control, evil seductress, she is instead fierceful, courageous, complex, and a symbol of defiance. She embodies capitalizing on her villainization to benefit and rewrite her story. Instead, Lilith represents freedom and determination. Her role continues to challenge gender performativity and empower women.
