Meaning: The quote "I AM what is called a Feminist. Thirty years ago I left a monastery and began a sane human existence. Within two or three years, I find, I was defending the rights of women." by Joseph McCabe, a prolific writer and speaker on scientific, religious, and social topics, encapsulates a personal journey of transformation and advocacy for women's rights. This quote reflects McCabe's transition from a life of seclusion in a monastery to actively championing the cause of gender equality, marking a significant shift in his beliefs and values.

Joseph McCabe's decision to leave the monastery, where he likely lived a life of religious devotion and contemplation, represents a pivotal moment in his life. It signifies a departure from a cloistered environment to engage with the world in a more active and practical manner. This transition from a secluded existence to a "sane human existence" suggests a desire for a more balanced and socially aware life, one that involves interaction with the broader society and its issues.

The revelation that within a few years of leaving the monastery, McCabe found himself advocating for women's rights is a testament to the transformative power of lived experience. It suggests that exposure to the realities of the world outside the monastery led him to recognize and empathize with the struggles and injustices faced by women. This realization likely prompted him to become a vocal supporter of gender equality and women's rights.

McCabe's self-identification as a feminist is significant, especially considering the time period in which he made this declaration. The term "feminist" has been historically associated with the advocacy of women's rights and the promotion of gender equality. By embracing this label, McCabe aligns himself with a movement that seeks to address the systemic inequalities and discrimination faced by women. His public declaration of being a feminist indicates a deliberate and conscious choice to stand in solidarity with women and their struggle for equal rights and opportunities.

It is important to contextualize McCabe's statement within the broader historical and social context of feminism. The late 19th and early 20th centuries, when McCabe was active, were marked by significant social and political movements for women's rights. The suffragette movement, which sought to secure voting rights for women, was gaining momentum, and feminist activists were challenging societal norms and advocating for legal and social reforms to advance women's status and autonomy.

McCabe's journey from a monastic life to becoming a feminist also raises questions about the intersection of spirituality, personal growth, and social activism. His experience underscores the idea that personal transformation and spiritual awakening can lead individuals to recognize and address social injustices. It suggests that a deep and introspective journey can result in a heightened awareness of societal issues and a commitment to effecting positive change.

In conclusion, Joseph McCabe's quote encapsulates a profound personal and ideological evolution. It illustrates his transition from a secluded existence to an engaged and socially conscious life, as well as his commitment to advocating for women's rights. His self-identification as a feminist and his journey from the monastery to social activism reflect a deep and transformative process of self-discovery and solidarity with the struggle for gender equality.