this interpretation as well, the reason lies in the internalization process which is also documented earlier in this Report. “It is a patriarchal society and the bible was interpreted by men.” Rev. Fa’auuga Pula, Inquiry public hearings Among those who misinterpret the Bible in this manner there is a belief that wives who do not submit and obey their husbands have to be physically disciplined to learn their lesson. The Inquiry has found the interpretation of the Bible upon which this conclusion is drawn to be false but regardless it is still helpful to note that nowhere in the Bible does it advocate physical discipline or violence between a husband and wife. Nowhere. On the contrary, there are countless verses espousing non-violence, tolerance, patience and kindness. “Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” Colossians 3:19 “The Lord tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.” Psalm 11:5 “The mouth of the righteous is the fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.” Proverbs 10:11 The Bible is quite clear in its rejection of all forms of violence or any conduct by the husband that is harmful of a wife. It requires husbands to act towards wives in the way Christ has and continues to act towards his Church. “For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her […] He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish […] In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church.” Ephesians 5:25-29 The Bible not only prohibits physical violence but also verbal violence38 and decrees that this should apply universally, not just within the confines of marriage. If there is nowhere in the Bible which calls for physical discipline of wives who are perceived not to obey their husbands then why did this become a practice in Samoa? The answer lies in the dynamic underpinning of all family violence – power and control. Where a group assumes power over another, and 38 James 1:26 – ‘If anyone things he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.’