Evil Re-Examined: Barthian Insights Post-Covid Pandemic

Abstract

This paper delves into Karl Barth's unique interpretation of evil within the context of the 2019-2022 global COVID-19 pandemic, guided by Kenneth Surin's concept of 'practical theodicy.' Employing a critical analysis of Barth's theological works, with a particular focus on 'das Nichtige' (nothingness), it uncovers a fresh understanding of Barth's theological intentions concerning the problem of evil. Barth's theology highlights the inherent malevolence of evil and its ultimate defeat through Christ, providing a theological framework for addressing post-pandemic suffering challenges. This reinterpretation holds specific relevance for Indonesia's and global Christian community, offering a practical theological foundation for navigating the pandemic's aftermath. The research's implications extend to theology and ethics, offering a new perspective on how Christians can comprehend and respond to suffering in a post-pandemic world. Informed by 'practical theodicy,' Barth's theological insights prompt a reconsideration of our approach to evil and its implications for human existence. This paper reevaluates Karl Barth's theology of evil through a contemporary lens, presenting a novel interpretation that is particularly valuable to scholars and theologians seeking fresh viewpoints on the enduring issue of suffering. Moreover, it offers practical guidance for Indonesia's Christian community in addressing the challenges posed by the global pandemic.