THEOLOGY, PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION REVISIT THE SHROUD IMAGE FORMATION BY RADIATIVE PROCESSES

Abstract

For some decades several scientists have claimed the formation of the Shroud body image by the radiative hypotheses. These proposals have as a start the emission, by the corpse wrapped in the burial linen, of proton or electromagnetic radiation with the wavelengths of the far ultraviolet. From a theological point of view, these hypotheses must be discarded. In fact, the above proposal foresees a transcendental beginning, followed in compliance with the natural laws, hoping to find a result that justifies their initial hypothesis. The Miracles are done only by God, the Omnipotent. Also for Thomas Aquinas, a Doctor of the Church, the Divine intervention is instant. Therefore a description of these transcendental events, step by step, it is impossible. In line with Theology there is also the Ockham’s thought. It is not a physical law but a philosophical razor that still enjoys great consideration in the scientific world. Used in the case of Shroud Body Image Formation, the “Ockham’s razor” does not agree with the radiative hypotheses. The same occurs with the Religion. In fact, reading The Gospels, The Act of Apostles and The Letter, we must accept the initial absence of image.