Spirit in Creation: Mizo Primal Cosmology and Its Implications for Anthropogenic Climate Change Concern

Abstract

In the face of an escalating climate crisis, humanity is confronted not only with pressing environmental challenges but also with a profound moral imperative to protect our planet for the sake of generations yet unborn. This paper embarks on an urgent re-examination and expansion of the timeless inquiry into the God—human—world relationship as perceived within Mizo primal cosmology. This unique worldview offers a perspective on God's interaction with creation through the lens of pneumatology. In the midst of our contemporary environmental predicament, this exploration holds the potential to enrich theological discourse by shedding light on alternative perspectives of the God—human—world relationship. The inherited theology, which often revolves around anthropocentrism and other-worldly spiritual concerns, is found wanting in addressing climate change concerns. It tends to limit God's relationship with creation, neglecting its holistic dimensions. In contrast, the Mizo primal cosmology seems to offer a potential viewpoint to bridge this theological deficit, highlighting the intricate interplay between God, humanity and the environment. By bridging the traditional and the contemporary, this paper seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about humanity’s role in safeguarding our planet and nurturing a more harmonious coexistence with the natural world. Ultimately, it endeavours to inspire a renewed sense of responsibility for our shared environment and the intricate web of life it sustains.