Abstract
In this essay the political use of Revelation in the first five centuries will be analysed in greatest detail, with some references to other examples. Focus will be on two trajectories of interpretation: literalist, eschatological readings and symbolic, spiritualizing interpretations of the text. Whilst the first approach reads the book as predictions of future events, the second approach links the text with spiritual themes and contents that do not refer to outstanding events in time and history. The essay will argue that both of these trajectories are ultimately determined by political considerations. In a final section, a contemporary reading of Revelation will be analysed in order to illustrate the continuing and important presence of political readings in the reception history of Revelation, albeit in new, unique forms.
Highlights
Revelation is often associated with movements on the fringes of societies that are preoccupied with visions and calculations about the end time.[1]
Focus will be on two trajectories of interpretation: literalist, eschatological readings and symbolic, spiritualizing interpretations of the text
Whilst the first approach reads the book as predictions of future events, the second approach links the text with spiritual themes and contents that do not refer to outstanding events in time and history
Summary
Revelation is often associated with movements on the fringes of societies that are preoccupied with visions and calculations about the end time.[1] The book has been used throughout the centuries to reflect on and challenge political structures and. A close reading of these political receptions of Revelation promises to provide insight into the power of religious discourses in society and the church. Political use of Revelation in the first five centuries will be analysed in greatest detail, with some references to other examples. Whilst the first approach reads the book as predictions of future events, the second approach links the text with spiritual themes and contents that do not refer to outstanding events in time and history. A contemporary reading of Revelation will be analysed in order to illustrate the continuing and important presence of political readings in the reception history of Revelation, albeit in new, unique forms
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