Religions

20 pages, 444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Encircle the Pole Star and Encompass Taiyi: On the Astronomical Vision of Politics in the Laozi

by Zhikun Li and Yongfeng Huang

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121420 - 22 Nov 2024

The sentence from the tenth chapter of the Laozi, wherein the character “zai” is the last character of the preceding chapter, “po” denotes the ancient polar star Kaiyang, and “yi” signifies the celestial pole Taiyi, finds its roots in ancient Chinese astronomy. [...] Read more.

The sentence from the tenth chapter of the Laozi, wherein the character “zai” is the last character of the preceding chapter, “po” denotes the ancient polar star Kaiyang, and “yi” signifies the celestial pole Taiyi, finds its roots in ancient Chinese astronomy. “yingpo” conveys the meaning of “encircling the polar star”, whereas “baoyi” signifies “encompassing Taiyi”, thereby metaphorically representing a framework of harmonious order. The depiction of the universe by the author of the Laozi, rooted in ancient astronomical understanding, serves as a political guide for rulers. It suggests that rulers should value the movement pattern of Taiyi, refrain from intervention, and prioritize the inherent qualities of their subjects, thus facilitating their natural development. The entire tenth chapter is centered around this central thesis. Full article

12 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Journey: An Approach—From Human Sciences to Theology

by Miriam Ramos Gómez and Charlie Jorge Fernández

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1419; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121419 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

The symbolic value of the journey has been widely explored in literary theory, educational science, history and philosophy. However, is it possible to approach travel from a theological point of view? The aim of our article is to answer this question. In order [...] Read more.

The symbolic value of the journey has been widely explored in literary theory, educational science, history and philosophy. However, is it possible to approach travel from a theological point of view? The aim of our article is to answer this question. In order to do so, we essentially seek a biblical and theological–spiritual foundation for our research. First, we start from the experience contained in travel books as well as from the notion of the journey as a path to wisdom as it appears in some literary works. After examining the pedagogical value of the notion of the journey as an adventure in which the hero is formed, and the philosophical value of the concept of the journey as a search for the meaning of life, we intend to develop the theological approach on three levels: examining the notion of the journey as a metaphor for the Christian way; the experience of the journey as expatriation; and the relationship between the journey and conversion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Religions and Humanities/Philosophies)

13 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Crush of Life’s Passion: Interiority in Michel Henry as a Possibility for the Experience of God

by Simon Cunningham

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121418 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

The question of whether God can be given in first-hand experience is debated in the secondary literature of Michel Henry. Articulating the history and structure of interiority more deeply provides a more precise conceptualization of his interiority to emerge and thus settle the [...] Read more.

The question of whether God can be given in first-hand experience is debated in the secondary literature of Michel Henry. Articulating the history and structure of interiority more deeply provides a more precise conceptualization of his interiority to emerge and thus settle the question, namely that Henry’s thought contains both a dualism and duality. Within his dualism, Henry’s interior appearing is foundational, and has no capacity to reconcile with the world’s appearing that asserts exteriority as a foundation of what is given. Yet an interior/exterior duality emerges within Henry’s foundational interiority. Experiences of things like chairs are exteriorly given in life, while experiences of affectivity like gratitude are interiorly given in life. Since interior experiences are unified with our life and are our life, they lack any phenomenological distance that reduce God to finitude. Thus interiority, when both the foundation and the experience, establishes both a possibility for a first-hand experience of God and a glimpse into God’s experience of Godself. The article closes by showing how Henry suggests a name for God when given in first-hand experience: the Holy Spirit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experience and Non-Objects: Towards a Phenomenology of Indiscernibility)

13 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relational Consciousness as Eco-Spiritual Formation: Interreligious Construction with Rosemary R. Ruether and Neo-Confucianism

by Joo Hyung Lee

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1417; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121417 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the theological and philosophical interplay between Rosemary Radford Ruether’s ecofeminist theology and Neo-Confucian cosmology in the context of Korean Protestant Christianity. By exploring intolerant interpretations of the Christian creation story, it critiques the anthropocentric domination of nature and proposes a [...] Read more.

This study investigates the theological and philosophical interplay between Rosemary Radford Ruether’s ecofeminist theology and Neo-Confucian cosmology in the context of Korean Protestant Christianity. By exploring intolerant interpretations of the Christian creation story, it critiques the anthropocentric domination of nature and proposes a reformed ecological spirituality. The research integrates Ruether’s covenantal and sacramental traditions, arguing for the significance of “relational consciousness” as a framework for eco-spiritual formation. Drawing from Ruether’s examination of creation myths and Neo-Confucian perspectives, this study asserts the necessity in reshaping Christian theology to embrace human interdependence with nature and the cosmos. It proposes that Korean Christians, influenced by Calvinist theology, must move beyond human dominion over nature to a role of co-creator and nurturer of the ecosystem, advocating for an eco-theological renewal that centers on relational consciousness for spiritual formation. Full article

15 pages, 2155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Room of Quiet Contemplation: Seeing and Identification in the National Museum of Korea

by Jin Sook Kim

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121416 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 75

Abstract

Contemplation is a unique way of seeing that enables us to perceive the truth of the invisible beyond what is visible. Through contemplation, one can become deeply connected with, and possibly even identify with, what they have observed. This study analyzes the spatial [...] Read more.

Contemplation is a unique way of seeing that enables us to perceive the truth of the invisible beyond what is visible. Through contemplation, one can become deeply connected with, and possibly even identify with, what they have observed. This study analyzes the spatial arrangement of “A Room of Quiet Contemplation” at the National Museum of Korea and explores its interaction with visitors. Although the room prominently features two Buddhist pensive bodhisattva statues, giving it a Buddhist appearance, it must meet certain necessary conditions due to its location in a national museum. Respect for religious diversity and the neutralization of religious bias are crucial. We examine how the statues are de-contextualized from their original temporal and local contexts, allowing them to function as universal (non-religious) signs in the museum. Furthermore, the room must be accessible to foreign visitors from various cultural and religious backgrounds. Thus, this research investigates the universality and singularity of the tradition of contemplation. Additionally, we explore how the experience of contemplation can be enhanced through various forms of the spatial expansion of “A Room of Quiet Contemplation”. Full article

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7 pages, 173 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Lord’s Supper as a Spiritually Formative Experience of Scripture

by Jon Weatherly

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1415; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121415 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 101

Abstract

The Lord’s Supper in its New Testament context is an experience of Scripture, a reenactment of crucial divine acts in salvation history with Jesus’ death and resurrection as the nexus. As such, it grounds communicants in the biblical metanarrative and directs them to [...] Read more.

The Lord’s Supper in its New Testament context is an experience of Scripture, a reenactment of crucial divine acts in salvation history with Jesus’ death and resurrection as the nexus. As such, it grounds communicants in the biblical metanarrative and directs them to generosity, forgiveness, and patient, hopeful witness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Restoring Our Spirits with the New Testament: Spirituality in Biblical Research)

12 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Settlement and Civility as Pre-Requisite of Evangelization in the Chichimeca Frontier

by Manuel Mendez Alonzo

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121414 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 157

Abstract

This paper delves into the process of evangelization undertaken by the Spanish in the northern frontier of New Spain during the 16th century, specifically targeting the nomadic Indigenous populations known as Chichimecas. Missionaries encountered unique challenges due to the absence of religious infrastructure, [...] Read more.

This paper delves into the process of evangelization undertaken by the Spanish in the northern frontier of New Spain during the 16th century, specifically targeting the nomadic Indigenous populations known as Chichimecas. Missionaries encountered unique challenges due to the absence of religious infrastructure, robust political authorities, and the nomadic lifestyle of these groups. To overcome these hurdles, the Spanish implemented a strategy that intertwined evangelization with colonization. The text highlights the significance of constructing physical infrastructure in these frontier territories, such as churches, schools, and dwellings, to facilitate the process of evangelization and colonial control. Moreover, it emphasizes the need to impose a social and political structure on these nomadic communities, transforming them into obedient colonial subjects. Full article

14 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compline in Melkite Alexandria, Contained in MS Sinai Arabic 232 (13th c.)

by Andrew Wade

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121413 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 133

Abstract

This article is the latest in a series examining the offices in the Horologion of Sinai Arabic 232 (13th century). This Book of Hours has its origin in Melkite Alexandria and has never been studied before, nor indeed have the Arabic Books of [...] Read more.

This article is the latest in a series examining the offices in the Horologion of Sinai Arabic 232 (13th century). This Book of Hours has its origin in Melkite Alexandria and has never been studied before, nor indeed have the Arabic Books of Hours, in general. The article presents an English translation of the Office of Compline from this manuscript (apart from the psalms, which are simply indicated), with comments and identification of the individual texts. Features of particular interest are the extra saints in the intercessions, different psalms and prayers from the modern rite, and the series of common troparia at the end. The additional saints in the intercessions pose a conundrum: whereas the analysis of Matins, the Hours, and Vespers has suggested that this is an Arabic Melkite Horologion from Alexandria that must have been received from Jerusalem c. the 7th century and then underwent both Alexandrian (Coptic) influences and later Byzantinisation which did not entirely eliminate more archaic elements from Jerusalem such as the tri-ode system at Matins, the choice of additional saints suggests a double provenance from both Alexandria and Sinai. We therefore suggest that the Horologion was brought from Alexandria and underwent some degree of adaptation on Sinai without eliminating all the specifically Alexandrian features. Full article

19 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bible Use and Human Flourishing Among Members of the U.S. Military Community

by Sung Joon Jang, Matt Bradshaw and Byron R. Johnson

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121412 - 21 Nov 2024

Viewed by 266

Abstract

We examined an understudied aspect of religiosity, namely engagement with a sacred text, in relation to a multidimensional construct of well-being. Specifically, we hypothesized that the relationship between Bible use (various ways of utilizing the Bible) and human flourishing would be positive and [...] Read more.

We examined an understudied aspect of religiosity, namely engagement with a sacred text, in relation to a multidimensional construct of well-being. Specifically, we hypothesized that the relationship between Bible use (various ways of utilizing the Bible) and human flourishing would be positive and mediated by three likely outcomes of Bible use: spiritual engagement, positive beliefs about the Bible, and the behavioral influence of the Bible. These relationships were also hypothesized to be reciprocal over time. To test these hypotheses, we estimated three-wave structural equation models using panel survey data from a quasi-experiment that assessed a scripture engagement program developed for the U.S. military members and their families. The results showed that Bible use and human flourishing were positively related, and that this relationship was partially explained by the behavioral influence of the Bible and, to a lesser extent, spiritual engagement and positive beliefs about the Bible. However, these relationships were not reciprocal across all waves. Full article

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21 pages, 417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Divinity of the Emperor and Postwar Japanese Conservative Nationalism

by Yijiang Zhong

Religions 2024, 15(12), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15121411 - 21 Nov 2024

Viewed by 186

Abstract

This paper explores the scholarly discourse on the divinity of the emperor in postwar Japan to better understand Japanese conservative nationalism, which has been regaining momentum since the 1990s. Viewing the idea of the divinity of the emperor as ideologically fundamental to Japanese [...] Read more.

This paper explores the scholarly discourse on the divinity of the emperor in postwar Japan to better understand Japanese conservative nationalism, which has been regaining momentum since the 1990s. Viewing the idea of the divinity of the emperor as ideologically fundamental to Japanese conservative nationalism, this paper looks at how conservative scholars from the 1970s developed a culturalist argument for the divinity of the emperor, first to negate the “humanity declaration”, i.e., the New Year’s greeting by the Showa emperor on 1 January 1946 renouncing his divinity, and then to reconfigure conservative ideology into a popular discourse on Japanese identity (i.e., the Nihonjin-ron), thereby making it more easily accepted by postwar society. Key to this culturalist argument is an essentialized dichotomy between Japanese culture and Western culture, more specifically a binary between Shinto kami and the Christian God—that the Japanese concept of kami is qualitatively different from that of the Christian God, so the emperor is not God but is kami; therefore, the emperor’s divinity is not really denied and he remains the spiritual pillar of the Japanese nation even under the postwar constitutional regime. Refashioning itself as part of the increasingly popular but depoliticized Nihonjin-ron discourse, the culturalist argument on the divinity of the emperor helped make the imperial house a popular topic of the discourse on Japanese identities, even while it completely circumvented the very issues of war responsibility and historical memory which gave rise to the “humanity declaration” in 1946 in the first place. In its depoliticized, popularly appealing form, the culturalist argument played a role in legitimating the regressive conservative nationalism that seeks to revive the pre-1945 divine emperor-centered political regime. Exploring the scholarly discourse on the divinity of the emperor, then, helps shed light on how and why conservative nationalism could persist and gain momentum in the 21st century. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Religion, Liberalism and the Nation in East Asia)

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Religions, Volume 15, Issue 12 (December 2024) – 10 articles

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