Jewish women's religious status has evolved from "sheltered princesses" to active participants in religious life, yet significant legal inequalities persist in halakhah (Jewish law). Through systematic analysis of classical Jewish sources - including Talmudic literature, rabbinic responsa, and legal codes - clear patterns emerge showing that many traditional exemptions from positive commandments were intended as practical accommodations rather than absolute prohibitions. Women's historical exemption from time-bound religious obligations stemmed primarily from family responsibilities, a rationale that warrants reconsideration in contemporary society. The research identifies multiple precedents for expanded women's participation in Torah study, ritual observance, and even religious leadership roles. Drawing on these findings, twelve specific reforms are proposed to address current inequities, including equal participation in synagogue governance, mutual sanctification in marriage ceremonies, obligation to recite kaddish, equal witness testimony rights, and eligibility for religious functionary positions. The evidence suggests that centuries of accumulated "unnecessary baggage" in halakhic interpretation now impedes women's full participation in Jewish religious life. Modern halakhic authorities must acknowledge this historical discrimination and work toward granting full legal equality to Jewish women - representing an evolution, not revolution, in Jewish law.