Theological Perspective Research Articles

Harun Nasution's Theological View

This research delves into Harun Nasution's theological perspectives and the reforms he advocated, particularly within the framework of Rational Islam. It explores the historical context surrounding the concept of destiny, encompassing interpretations from the Jabariyah and Qadariyah theological schools. Employing a descriptive analysis methodology, the study elucidates Nasution's rational and scientific theological framework, emphasizing the pivotal role of reason in human actions while maintaining a symbiotic relationship with revelation. Drawing from Nasution's intellectual lineage, notably influenced by the Mu'tazilites and Muhammad Abduh, the research uncovers Nasution's paradigm shift from Traditionalist to Rationalist theology, a significant development in the Indonesian context. Nasution's reforms, detailed within, represent a departure from dogmatic interpretations, advocating instead for a nuanced understanding that reconciles intellect with revelation. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of Nasution's legacy as a modern reformer and offers insights into the evolving landscape of Islamic theology, particularly in Indonesia, by comprehensively examining his theological views and reforms and their implications for the interplay between reason and revelation in Islamic thought.

Kristologi Eskatologis: Kerajaan Seribu Tahun Dalam Pemikiran Teologi Kristen

This article discusses the concept of Eschatological Christology, especially in the context of Christian theological thought, with a focus on the idea of the Millennial Kingdom. The author explores the theological interpretations of the future found in Christian scripture, particularly in relation to Christ's return and His thousand-year reign. The discussion includes various different theological perspectives, so this article summarizes views about the millennial kingdom (millennium kingdom) using qualitative methods, namely by using existing literature data.

Pergumulan Iman Lanjut Usia Jemaat HKI Partangga Pasca Gempa di Tapanuli Utara, 01 Oktober 2022 Berdasarkan Perspektif Teologi Bencana

This study aims to determine how the elderly congregation responded to the earthquake disaster, and the faith struggles of the elderly of the HKI Partangga church congregation after the earthquake based on the perspective of disaster theology. The theory used in this study is to use expert theories related to disaster theology, the theory of Zakaria J. Ngelow which emphasizes that natural disasters occur not as punishment from God, but as normal events in nature and there is no biblical record that says that God punishes sinful humans, but loves and forgives, redeems and saves humans from the wrapping of sin. The study in this research uses a qualitative method, with a descriptive analysis approach, which aims to describe the actual situation. Data collection techniques are carried out by observation, in-depth interviews. The findings of this study are that the elderly of the HKI Partangga congregation responded to the earthquake with: the emergence of fear, feeling the presence of God. In addition to responding, the elderly also provide perspectives that are different from the perspective of disaster theology on natural disasters. The elderly provide a perspective that is different from the Christian faith, which understands that earthquakes are God's punishment for sin, questions arise to God about what sins are committed, earthquakes are God's plan.

Artificial Intelligence and Theology: Can Different Doctrines Have Different Outcomes?

This article focuses on how different theological perspectives may influence AI acceptance in diverse faith communities. It highlights differences between Western and Eastern Christian traditions, suggesting that the historical emphasis on intellect in Western Christianity might make it more open to AI, though challenges in church integration are acknowledged. Global examples of AI assimilation in religious practices, from a robotic Buddhist preacher to a blessing-delivering robot in a German church, are discussed. The article argues that theological doctrines shape AI perspectives, influencing ethics and raising profound questions about human identity. The ongoing debate questions whether AI threatens theology or fosters enriching dialogue. The article suggests, through historical parallels and the dynamic interplay of theological doctrines and technology, that the relationship between AI and theology could evolve into constructive engagement rather than inherent conflict.

Towards an Understanding of Embodiment in Digital Space – A Practical Theological Perspective

Abstract This article presents a theoretical exploration of the notion of embodiment as it pertains to practical theology and lived religion. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, religious communities responded by increasing engagement with digital spaces and digital forms of worship. This necessarily challenges traditional notions around the idea of embodiment and how the body is understood in non-corporeal religious space. Contemporary memorial culture and its ritualised behaviour provides an effective lens with which to observe and study the evolving role and understanding of digital embodiment. This article uses a ritual perspective to deconstruct traditional notions around the corporeal body and explores the role of memory as an important consideration at the nexus of offline-online life.

Hagar’s spirituality prior to and after captivity: An African and gendered perspective

This study is an exploration of the Hagar narrative from the perspective of African Womanist Theology. The article focuses on the spirituality of Hagar before and after her captivity (Gn 16). The research takes an Afrocentric perspective and uses a postcolonial lens to comment on the preceding text as well as consider how this story is captured in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. At the core of the article is an attempt at reclaiming the African in Hagar who is largely portrayed in the stories of Sarah and Abraham within a Hebrew perspective which itself is arguably imperial. The aim is to inspire modern African women (and in the diaspora) to reclaim their African spirituality within their stories and experiences. Summarily, the article is a critique of the colonial project, slavery and its legacies in dehumanising and disenfranchising people and African knowledge systems. The article is structured as follows: firstly, it introduces the Hagar and/or Hajar traditions from the perspectives of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Secondly, it takes a step back to consider Hagar’s identity as an Egyptian princess before she encountered Sarah and Abraham. The article also discusses how Hagar’s past in Egypt had a bearing on her spiritual encounters when she and her son Ishmael and/or Ismail were exiled. Finally, the article concludes with a recommendation for continued reflection on an African spirituality narrative of the Hagar traditions alongside the predominant narratives from Abrahamic religions.Contribution: This article demonstrates that the religious scriptures must be read from liberation perspectives such as the postcolonial paradigm to inspire the recovery of authentic experiences of the oppressed and displaced, and it is an inspiration to African women to reclaim their true identity and spirituality.

The Inertia of All Flesh

This article builds on Eric Santner’s reflections on The Weight of All Flesh and in particular his interpretation of the king’s two bodies (Royal Remains). Within the context of Protestant theology, the theopolitical consequences of the democratization of the political body described by Santner are of particular interest. In this respect, I argue for two theses: first, this process of democratization finds its parallel in the Protestant critique of the representational function of the church – and perhaps even a crucial precondition. Second, in terms of a theological critique of ideology, this observation allows us insights into some accompanying symptoms of this process. From a theological perspective the weight of all flesh can then be precisely analyzed as the inertia of the flesh – and of all flesh at that.

Спиритуализм в истории русской религиозной мысли: ключевые оценки и трактовки

The article presents a critical review of the assessments of Modern Spiritualism in Russian philosophical historiography and positions it as a certain kind of natural theology. The author positions spiritualism as a special religious philosophy and outlines the reasons why it was considered as a practice without any philosophical significance. The article considers philosophical characteristics of Spiritualism given by Russian religious philosophers and offers some critical remarks on historiography's opinion about Spiritualism as a kind of "positivism". The author suggests, that spiritualism should be investigated in the perspective of the history of philosophical and theological thought of the early New Modern period. The article deals with analogies between the themes of early modern natural theology and the problems spiritualists were deeply interested in. It touches upon the discussions about the nature of the soul, especially, the questions of its corporeality and possible annihilation. Early modern discussions about witchcraft should be studied as a key issue, which links natural theology and spiritualism. The article proposes to compare seventeenth-century "witch-hunts", aimed to prove the existence of the spirit world, and nineteenth-century investigations of mediums. The importance of Leibnizianism and pneumatological teachings of the eighteenth century as precursors of spiritualist religious and philosophical thought is also pointed out. The article proposes to investigate Spiritualism not only as a subject for Orthodox apologetics’ criticism, but also as a special kind of Christian apologetics that emerged in the early Modern period and aimed at proving the immortality of the soul while refuting the arguments of materialist critics. Both Russian spiritualists and Russian philosophers (V.S. Soloviev, N.Y. Grot, L.M. Lopatin) were interested in "mediumistic phenomena". It is argued that the spiritualists of the late 19th century sought to overcome «positivist» limitations, and were not satisfied with the Kantian solution, which put a barrier to the cognition of the "real" world. The study of Spiritualism in the perspective of Christian natural theology makes it possible to grasp the main reason for the interest of Russian philosophers in Spiritualism and its’ "psychic phenomena" – the potential opportunity to find new arguments in favor of the immortality of the soul.

Exploring the Complexity of the Book of Daniel: A Multifaceted Analysis

This research delves into the intricate layers of the Book of Daniel, seeking to unravel its complexities through a comprehensive examination. Emphasizing the historical and literary significance of the text, the study explores the multifaceted nature of the Book of Daniel, which has intrigued scholars for centuries. The primary objective is to illuminate various dimensions of complexity, including symbolic language, prophetic elements, and historical context. Employing a methodological approach that integrates literary analysis, historical investigation, and theological perspectives, the study aims to provide a holistic understanding of the Book of Daniel's intricacies. Positioned within ongoing scholarly discussions on biblical interpretation and prophecy, the research reveals that the Book of Daniel invites diverse approaches, incorporating historical, wisdom, prophetic, and apocalyptic perspectives. Comprehending the Book of Daniel's complexity contributes to bridging the gap between historical, literary, and theological viewpoints, thereby enriching our grasp of biblical texts and fostering scholarly discourse in this field.

Holiness as Wholeness in Afro- Pentecostal Tradition: A Theological Perspective

Holiness as Wholeness in Afro- Pentecostal Tradition: A Theological Perspective

Approaching Saint Bernard’s Sermons on the “Song of Songs” through the Book of Odes (Shijing): A Confluence of Medieval Theology and Chinese Culture

This paper aims to decode medieval theology from the vantage point of ancient Chinese poetry, employing a cross-textual methodology that encourages a fusion of horizons. It highlights Saint Bernard’s profound and influential theological exegesis of the “Song of Songs”, particularly his comparison of the divine–human relationship to the conjugal bond. The present study posits that readers from Chinese culture can gain access to Saint Bernard’s mystical theology through the sentiment of love, as portrayed in the Book of Odes (Shijing). Initially addressing love as a core human sentiment, this study progresses by juxtaposing the representations of love in the Book of Odes with those in the “Song of Songs”. This comparative analysis culminates in an exploration of Saint Bernard’s theological perspectives, illuminated through these analogous depictions of love. The results affirm that engaging with Saint Bernard’s discourse on love via the Book of Odes is not only feasible but also instrumental in dispelling widespread misconceptions.

Clandestine Freedom: Toward the Development of a Queer Incarnational Theology

This article seeks to explore critical notions for developing a queer incarnational theology perspective. It begins by examining the concepts of “freedom” and “clandestinity” and then moves into the post-human question, drawing on ecological feminism and queer/cuir theologies. In the final section, ideas are outlined that contribute to a queer incarnational theology, recovering the prophetic sense of the Gospel. This approach integrates freedom from a queer/cuir perspective into a theological framework that resonates with human diversity and embraces the interconnectedness of all forms of life, challenging oppressive structures, and recognizing the prophetic vitality of the Gospel.

Integrating Psychological and Theological Perspectives on Multiculturalism, Social Justice, and Peace

Research examining the intersection of psychology and theology related to Multiculturalism, Social Justice, and Peace (MSJP) are needed. While some work has been done, this article highlights the value of further interdisciplinary engagement with these concepts. This article provides useful definitions for MSJP from both psychological and theological perspectives, identifies challenges to integration work, and summarizes the articles included in this special issue. Broad themes related to representation, ethnic/racial specific perspectives, development and formation, othering, and models and frameworks were used to organize the summary of articles.

Socioeconomic Determinants of Successful Aging in Southern Africa: Socio-Theological Gerontology

Abstract The demographic landscape in Southern Africa is experiencing a shift toward an older age group, and traditional family structures are being influenced by factors such as rural – urban migration and industrialization. This article examines the socioeconomic determinants of successful aging in Southern Africa, with a focus on the intersection of socioeconomic factors and theological perspectives on aging. It utilizes data collected in a 2018–2019 study that explored pastoral care for elderly caregivers of HIV and AIDS-affected children in Ramotswa, Botswana. The article employs a socio-theological gerontology framework to understand how socioeconomic determinants can support or hinder successful aging in the region. It emphasizes the importance of integrating contextual factors and intrapersonal aspects in addressing the aging phenomenon and provides recommendations for contextually informed policies and practices.

Thinking Africa through Soga’s black spirituals: A theological reflection

This article offers a critical reflection of Lizal’isidinga laKho (hymn 116) and Wazidala iinto zonke (hymn 16) written by Tiyo Soga and recorded in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) hymnal book. From the perspective of black theology of liberation (BTL), I historicise and contextualise hymn 116 and hymn 16 to debunk the argument that Tiyo Soga was alien to the lives, experiences of suffering and pain of his people. The article posits that hymn 116 and hymn 16 are black spirituals that articulate the contexts Soga found himself as a black person during the times of the frontier wars. Therefore, utilising blackness as a heuristic approach, I argue that the songs do not just historicise the experiences of black people in the times of the frontier wars, but they are prayers and/or laments from Soga that ask God to spare the lives, the culture, and value systems of black people in a world that seeks the destruction of their being, history, and culture. The songs emphasise the black struggle for justice and liberation encouraging black people never to succumb to the definitions given to them by those who seek the destruction of black personhood. The article locates Soga within the frontier wars to illustrate his own experiences as black person, then examines and presents Lizal’isidinga laKho, Wazidala iinto zonke as black spirituals born in a time of war to give hope to those who have been conquered and subjugated in the unjust wars of colonisation. Hymns 116 and 16 contribute to the decolonial turn discourse –unthinking of the west – because they emphasise the black struggle for liberation and justice.Contribution: The contribution of this article is its focus on the way in which the intersection of religious studies, social sciences, and humanities generates an interdisciplinary contested discourse.

Сравнительный стилистический и жанровый анализ посланий Патриарха Московского Кирилла и архиепископа Кентерберийского Джастина Уэлби

<p>This article presents a comparative stylistic and genre analysis of the messages delivered by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and Archbishop Justin Welby of Canterbury. The study examines the unique stylistic elements and genre conventions employed in their respective messages, aiming to reveal the underlying rhetorical strategies, thematic emphases, and communicative techniques. Employing qualitative analysis methods, the paper explores how these religious leaders use language and genre to articulate their theological perspectives and address contemporary issues. The analysis underscores the differences and similarities in their approaches, reflecting their distinct cultural, theological, and institutional contexts. By comparing the messages of these prominent figures in the Russian Orthodox Church and the Anglican Communion, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of contemporary religious communication and its impact on global and local religious communities.</p>

Sacrifice in Judaism and its Challenges to Christian Religious Worship in Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis

This comparative analysis explores the concept of sacrifice in Judaism and its challenges to Christian religious worship in Nigeria. Sacrifice holds significance in both faith traditions, influencing worship practices in diverse ways. The study focuses on theological implications, historical contexts, and contemporary relevance of sacrificial practices in Judaism and Christianity. In Judaism, sacrifice historically played a central role in religious worship, with rituals of animal offerings serving as means of atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God. The Hebrew Bible outlines detailed instructions for sacrificial practices, emphasizing purity, obedience, and spiritual intent. However, with the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, the practice of animal sacrifice ceased, leading to new interpretations of sacrifice within Jewish theology. In Nigeria, Christianity has become dominant, coexisting with traditional religious practices involving sacrificial offerings to deities and spirits. The introduction of Christianity in Nigeria has presented challenges to traditional sacrificial practices, resulting in theological debates, cultural conflicts, and shifts in religious identity among Nigerian Christians. The tension between traditional sacrificial rituals and Christian teachings on sacrifice has influenced religious worship practices in Nigeria, showcasing the complexities of religious syncretism and cultural adaptation. This analysis examines the challenges that the concept of sacrifice poses to Christian religious worship in Nigeria, exploring how the legacy of sacrificial practices in Judaism influences Christian perspectives on sacrifice, redemption, and divine worship. By comparing sacrificial traditions in Judaism and Christianity, this study aims to deepen understanding of how religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and theological perspectives interact and evolve in diverse religious contexts. Keywords: Sacrifice, Judaism, Christianity, Religious Worship, Nigeria, Comparative Analysis, Theology, Rituals, Syncretism, Cultural Adaptation

Analyzing the Characteristics and Uniqueness of Tafsir Al-Ibriz by KH. Bisri Mustofa

This study aim to explores the characteristics and uniqueness of Tafsir Al-Ibriz, authored by KH. Bisri Mustofa, a prominent figure in the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) tradition. Tafsir Al-Ibriz stands out in the landscape of Quranic exegesis in Indonesia due to its distinctive approach and methodology. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, this research delves into the interpretive methods, theological perspectives, and socio-cultural impacts of this tafsir. The findings indicate that Tafsir Al-Ibriz combines textual and contextual interpretation with a distinctive mystical and philosophical nuance, reflecting KH. Bisri Mustofa's unique perspective in understanding the messages of the Quran. Additionally, the tafsir demonstrates the influence of Sufi teachings in interpreting Quranic verses. Other unique characteristics of Tafsir Al-Ibriz include its emphasis on cultural preaching, particularly to the NU community, the use of Javanese language hierarchy known for its politeness (unggah-ungguh), the pesantren-specific style of translating Arabic texts, an objective interpretation of jihad devoid of political bias, adherence to the Shafi'i school of jurisprudence, and a mystical yet scientific approach. The theoretical implications of this research provide new insights into the diversity of interpretative approaches to the Quran in the Islamic world, highlighting the spiritual and philosophical dimensions presented by Tafsir Al-Ibriz. These findings also contribute to our understanding of the role of Sufism in the Islamic exegesis tradition and how theological thought can influence Quranic interpretation. This study aims to lay the groundwork for further research on classical and contemporary tafsir works, as well as deepen the relevance of Sufi thought in contemporary Quranic understanding.

Youth as a valuable resource for sustainable leadership

Leadership, fundamentally, is about people. It is especially during times of uncertainty, as created by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic when resources become scarce or inaccessible that people remain vital for continued and sustainable leadership. Yet, sustainable leadership is more than the longevity of an organisation. Sustainable leadership is also about community and developing people. The aims of sustainable leadership are most suitable within the church where the community is accessible. However, this article will not simply address the community in the church but the youth as part of the community as vital elements for sustainable leadership. Furthermore, the responsibility of nurturing and supporting the youth for leadership needs to be intentional. The article will address sustainable leadership through practical theology and social capital to achieve its aim.Contribution: The article recognises that the dilemma of sustainable leadership cannot only be approached from a theological perspective but must engage with and pursue an interdisciplinary discussion. In this case, theoretical perspectives and approaches from leadership and social sciences were dialogue partners with theology to address sustainable leadership.

Who controls the agenda? theological perspectives on state-controlled home education in the UK

ABSTRACT Questions regarding the dynamics of power and control involved in formulating the learning agenda for home-educating families arose due to the UK Government’s proposed Schools Bill in May 2022. Empirical research was prompted by concerns from Christian home educators about state interference in their child’s home education, due to perceptions that religious values were being undermined and the ultimate responsibility for raising their child was under dispute in the light of the proposed Bill. Theological underpinnings, Christian perspectives and consideration of holistic socio-cultural contexts were integral to explorations of control of the learning agenda through the lens of Christian home educators. The findings problematise external authorities dictating curriculum content, teaching methods or frameworks to families who have opted to educate their children outside of the mainstream school system, since such approaches are counter to the distinctive nature of a democratic society. Lived experiences of collaboration versus persuasion, and participants feeling mistrusted, devalued and side-lined have all led to a sense of suspicion and concern about authority. Greater dialogue is therefore recommended to enhance understanding and collaboration, mutual trust and cooperation across all parties.