This is a writing about religion with special reference to the mental health of women. I call attention to the ways in which the majority of world religions have placed women in a secondary position to men. I maintain that, as an integral part of the religio-cultural heritage of many nations, this organization of sex roles has been a major cause of conflict, frustration, stress and mental disorder among women. With special reference to the Judeo-Christian tradition, I offer a general perspective on religion and mental health that emphasizes the human needs for meaning, control, and self-esteem. I discuss scripture, theology, and psychological research and theory in showing how religion offers negative meanings to women, thus reducing their sense of personal control and lowering their self-esteem. The result may be depression, agoraphobia, and other adjustment problems that disproportionately affect women. However I do not discount the complexity of religion or the ways in which it can enhance mental health. I conclude with a discussion of new and constructive theological development as well as some new directions for research related to religion and women``s psychological health.