Christianity Archives

Baals Qualities in Christian Demonology

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Table of Contents

Description
Analysis
References

Throughout history, and despite pervasive cynicism, there is growing attention from various individuals on the situation of the demonic entity in society. Most people have heard or become familiar with demoniacs across their lifespan. In an article titled Spirit possession: Perspectives on pastoral assessment and care, Research Outreach documents how evil forces depicted in popular cultures and horror movies like The Exorcist give more insights on this distressing subject. Regardless of widespread academic distrust, demons have been present for many years (Illueca, 2019). The increasing interest in the occult world and other rituals linked to diabolical are becoming extensive in a wide segment of the populace, prompting renewed vigor in comprehending their actions (Giordan & Possamai, 2018). For instance, in the United States, Gallup surveys demonstrated several people believing in occult activities increased from roughly 55 percent to 70 percent between 1990 and 2004 respectively. Accordingly, Baal, one of the dreadful demonic entities in the Christian demonology is comprehensively described and analyzed.

Description

The word Baal is extracted from the Hebrew Bible but has never been assimilated into their language to represent deity since Israel was barred from mentioning idol names. The term could not be created within Israel as it was detested and abominable. Therefore, he was an imported deity who later penetrated the worshiping culture of Israel. The ghostly being can be an artificial object allotted divine and supernatural status. Since worshiping is an intrinsic desire that is nearly instinctive in people, it results in an attachment to the supernatural character of a higher self-definition of the person (Giordan & Possamai, 2018). Worshiping demands loyalty and belonging to that respective god-like living.

The Old Testament depicts Israelites worshipping Yahweh coupled with a brawl to remain a monotheistic society amid reverence for varied gods. Israel was not merely a people; it was a chosen race loved by God evident by the Lord calling it His son who was rescued from severe suffering in Egypt (King James Bible, 2021, Hosea 11:1). Moreover, in Jeremiah 11:4 (King James Bible, 2021), the strong relationship is further validated in the covenant formula. The pronouncement by the Lord affirms to them that He will be with the people and they shall reciprocate the love. The appearance of Baal represents a man with horns and ahead, just as it has been depicted in many biblical accounts. His hands have been portrayed as raised while holding a fulmination bolt, which denotes fertility and destruction. Occasionally, Baal has been depicted as seated on a divan, signifying a lord or king of gods. The demon Baal also looked like a toad, cat, man, or groupings thereof.

The narrative of Hebrew religion can be seen as a strain between the spiritual understanding of God and worship. It also reflects the promise of real faith by Israelites and numerous pressures arising from idolatry that attempts to materialize and debase the national practice and consciousness. Therefore, the name Baal is prevalent in extra-Biblical periods and the Hebrew Scripture portrays its meaning as a master, owner, husband, or lord. According to the Egyptian stories, Baal is a spiritual entity that refers to the Semitic god while the Canaanites believed it dwelt in springs, rocks, mountain summits, and blessed trees (Faber, 2021). Baal threatens people in many ways to ensure adherence to its requirements. For instance, it is known to bring lightning and thunder, making it seen as the driver of the storms. The expression accentuates the Canaanite belief of its presence evident by the initiation of the nimbus in the sky. Baal was predominantly linked to offering rainfall, making him extremely useful to the people.

When the Israelites reached Canaan after a long journey in the wilderness, they landed in a place of farmers rather than shepherds. Canaan was fertile at levels never seen before by the Hebrew nomads. The Canaanites linked this magnitude of land fertility to their deity, Baal, making Israelites, Gods preferred population begin thinking otherwise. The Israelites began asking hard questions amongst themselves. Could the Lord who steered them out of Egypt across the harsh wilderness also offer fertile land in the promised place? The typical victims were the ancient near east communities who attached divine solutions to some natural cycles and events that sometimes go beyond comprehension. It can be noted that the rainfall situation induced societies to infer the existence of heavenly forces that helped in creating rain (Faber, 2021). The situation implies that the deity Baal remained a spiritual projection among the Canaanites to elucidate the formation of rain where he created pictures to actualize his manifestation.

Within the pantheon of supernatural beings, Baal was a highly popular worshiping creature in Israel seen by several prophetesses and prophets he commanded. From the scriptural narrative, Prophet Elijah and those of Baal engaged in a contest on Mount Camel. Elijah probed to know the extent of Baal worshiping in Israel and moved near the people, seeking to know their loyalty to either God or Baal. He asked them to follow the Lord or those with conflicting opinions to follow Baal (King James Bible, 2021, 1 Kings 18:21-22). Moreover, Baals prophets came from Israel and consisted of men who had taken the priestly office in Baalism life. Baal is cited in many instances in the Old Testament, especially when the people are challenged to select whom to worship between him and Yahweh. He is recognized as the main Canaanite god and the books of the first and second Kings cite Baal on many occasions.

The oldest deity across cultures living in the primordial Near East was the maker of god El whose mistress, Asherah (the goddess of fertility) delivered a powerful creature called Baal. Over the periods, there seems just to be one Baal as his dominance became unmatched among other deities, and the revering of El waned (Faber, 2021). Baal defeated other gods such deity of storms, the sea, thunder, lighting, death, and rain. The Hebrews perceived the sea as a destructive and evil thing. Therefore, Baals promise to stop storms and manage the destructive effects of the sea combined with his ability to generate abundant harvests, elevated him to attract the Israelites. It is difficult to comprehend why Yahweh adherents failed to understand that only God alone had the authority and powers to control everything in the world. Probably, their desert journey triggered them to examine Gods control over fertile farms. Perhaps, it was just the sinful pagan actions that made Baal appeal to them.

The uses of Baal cut across several aspects of society. First, it serves as a teaching case on elements of demonology. The Israelite comprehension of demonic creatures, as it occurred in the common minds or even in the mythical fancy, resembled in many ways, what has been held in other places. Second, Demons reside in ruins or deserts and can inflict sickness or pain on human beings (Faber, 2021). They can trouble the minds of men and even deceive them. The furtive being who attacked Jacob in the book of Genesis shows a trait that conforms to the widespread conviction connected to some demons whose spirits are active at night and expires at dawn. In Proverbs 21: 16 (King James Bible, 2021), the scripture comments on the shades of the deceased. The congregation of darks continues on mysterious existence but does not interfere with the living. Even in the Israelite common religion, however, there appears to have been moderately little anxiety of spirits emanating from the departed.

Some aspects of the Israelite idols resemble apotropaic measures used in certain religions. The bells attached to the robes of priests recall their application in cultures in the norms that their tinkling scares demonic forces. For example, horns stated in Leviticus 25:9 and Exodus 19:16 (King James, 2021) show an indication of the presence of evil forces in the old days. The coating of doorposts mentioned in Exodus 12:17 (King James Bible, 2021) and even incense indicated in Leviticus 16:12 (King James Bible, 2021) depict ways demonic spirits were scared in the ancient societies. However, it is complicated to estimate the protection levels that these devices offered against evil spirits during those days.

Contextually, the role of Baal presumed that nature to some level determined the kind of god who would be uppermost in the Canaanites minds. For instance, the god who gives survival seen past human control warrants reverence and worship. In the context of Canaan and the high need for rain, Baal became profoundly relevant in that world (Faber, 2021). He adequately met societal needs, such as rain, and was identified as a supernatural being, supporting the survival requirements of the people. Therefore, it can be inferred that the people had the appropriate mindset to see and follow what they deemed beneficial from the Baal, especially in a society mainly characterized by multiple demonic entities.

Analysis

The primeval near eastern communities formed the melting pot of multifaceted ritualistic and demonic worship. The covenantal monotheism digressed from the existing context beliefs, and norms of the neighboring societies. For instance, Israel was a place, where Yahweh guided amid deep-rooted myths about divine creatures (Faber, 2021). When Yahweh summoned Abraham, the ancient societys religiosity, as well as their understanding of God, had already progressed to greater levels. The people in such areas were already satisfied with the nature of their gods. Any situation that would lead to searching for a new deity was met with utter resistance. For example, the Canaanites, Akkadians, and Sumerians had already developed theologies and cosmogonies of their divinities (Faber, 2021). The temples of these communities were full of functional rituals as dictated by their tenets.

Assessment of various pieces of the literature reveals few attempts in abandoning their gods for Yahweh. In 1 Samuel 8:2 (King James Bible, 2021), the scripture depicts the struggles of the preferred persons trying not to emulate other societies but to remain loyal to one God. Israel needed a king and the elders came together with Samuel urging him to walk on the right path. The aspect witnessed in Baal in dominating certain lesser demonic bodies coupled with the provision of other needs in the society made him monstrous. The conflict appears to apply to the god who tussled in controlling the natural forces in attempts to exert their providential and authority powers. In what can be termed secondary divinities, some gods apply what the supreme creatures have created. Therefore, by conquering Yam, Baal instituted an external superiority over the planetary waters used to enrich the earth. By overcoming Yam, it denotes that Baal had powers over water otherwise it could encounter revolt.

Baal is portrayed as a victor and a warrior since he defeated many demonic beings. These deities represent gods or natural forces who can manage nature. One observable aspect is that Baal lived in persistent conflict since his rivals were frequent processes. The aspect of demonology as documented in the New Testament partially reflects a contemporary prevalent belief that also appears in the rabbinic texts and the dualism in Qumran. Those sicknesses in which a pervasion of individual personality exists, making the demon direct man in his speech and acts (King James Bible, 2021, Mark 1:23-26). The rabbinic literature, which refers to demons as evil spirits or unclean spirits, believed these natural powers inhabit waste dwellings and that their possession causes or links to numerous diseases.

The account of how Jesus healed a demoniac by driving a legion of what was termed an unclear spirit into a huge herd of swine is a classical example. The New Testament demonstrates a clear persistence of ancient widespread conviction on the existence and the possible influence of demonic powers (King James Bible, 2021, Mark 5:1-22; Mathew 8:26-34, and Luke 8:24-40). The situation is akin to the parable stated in Mathew 12:39-45 (King James Bible, 2021) where the unclean spirits roving across the wilderness are accompanied by seven devils. Baal, just like other spirits cited in the Old and New Testaments depicts how harmful these supernatural beings can be to human beings.

Some key issues arising from this demonic power were seen during appeasing events. Baal supporters pacified him through the provision of sacrifices, which were common animals, such as bulls or ships (King James Bible, 2021, 1 Kings 18:21-26). Some of the gifts also included pigs, even though God prohibited his society from consuming pork. During a crisis, some of his followers sacrificed their firstborn children to attain individual prosperity, and the scripture terms this practice abominable (King James Bible, 2021, Deuteronomy 12:31). Asherah was deified in many ways, comprising through ritual sexual intercourse. While she was understood to be Baals mother, she was also seen as his lover. The followers also engaged in sympathetic magic where they presumed they could sway gods actions by involving in unwarranted behaviors like immoral sex to make the deities join the act for enhanced harvest. The deeds became prevalent and turned the society to practice religious prostitution.

In conclusion, the demon Baal is a widely discussed deity, especially in Christian demonology. The god is cited extensively in the scripture as the main idol among the Canaanites. His followers have staunched attachment and received a wide range of benefits ranging from bountiful harvests to inducing rains by worshiping him. The Israelites upon landing in Canaan were perplexed by this belief and were attracted to him. With numerous backing from peer-reviewed articles and scriptural texts, the research reveals the magnitude of Baals significance to his intransigent followers.

References

Giordan, G., & Possamai, A. (2018). Mastering the devil: A sociological analysis of the practice of a Catholic exorcist. Current Sociology, 66(1), 74-91. Web.

Faber, R. (2021). The cosmic spirit: Awakenings at the heart of all religions, the earth, and the multiverse. Wipf and Stock Publishers.

Illueca, M. (2019). Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Spirit Possession and Deliverance Ministries. Journal of Pastoral Care and Counselling, 72 (4), 269-277. Web.

King James Bible. (2021). King James Bible Online. Web.

Spirit possession: Perspectives on pastoral assessment and care. (n.d.). Research Outreach. Web.

Baals Qualities in Christian Demonology

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Table of Contents

Description
Analysis
References

Description

Analysis

References

Giordan, G., & Possamai, A. (2018). Mastering the devil: A sociological analysis of the practice of a Catholic exorcist. Current Sociology, 66(1), 74-91. Web.

Faber, R. (2021). The cosmic spirit: Awakenings at the heart of all religions, the earth, and the multiverse. Wipf and Stock Publishers.

Illueca, M. (2019). Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Spirit Possession and Deliverance Ministries. Journal of Pastoral Care and Counselling, 72 (4), 269-277. Web.

King James Bible. (2021). King James Bible Online. Web.

Spirit possession: Perspectives on pastoral assessment and care. (n.d.). Research Outreach. Web.

Christianity as a Bridge Between the Roman and Medieval Worlds

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Eastern Roman Empire in the Post-Roman World
References

Introduction

There is an open discussion concerning the role of Christianity in the transition between the Roman and Medieval worlds. However, the Christian religion had a significant impact on that transition. Religion and the Church were essential components of both Roman and Medieval cultures. Christianitys primary role in the transition between those worlds was the promotion of a worldview system that led to conversion from one age to another because that system changed the world.

First of all, Christianity was used to change peoples attitudes toward their lives, behavior, and authority. According to Ershov et al. (2019), the Church possessed moral and religious leadership, promoting the idea that royal power is of divine origin. That was the first step in the transition to the Medieval age: royalty was identified as sacred, and authorities will was presented as Gods will. Therefore, being against that will factually mean being a heretic, so peoples faith in God made them fear and respect loyalty. Christianity encouraged people to be submissive and humble and love their ruler as they love Jesus Christ (Ershov et al., 2019). The ideological and moral principles controlled the population, which strengthened the powers of the Church and royalty.

Furthermore, the Church formed and supported the religious worldview of life, making people change their attitude toward their deeds and behavior. As Ershov et al. (2019) state, that worldview was based on the killing of the flesh and the liberation of the spirit (p. 59). That lies in the core of the philosophy of asceticism: to reject life pleasantries and behave strictly (Ershov et al., 2019). These conditions helped the Church cultivate the institution of monasticism, and its first form was asceticism based on the principles of solitude (Ershov et al., 2019).

To pursue a monastic life meant to have contempt for the world, so monasteries were places where people forgot about pleasure and concentrated on serving God (Ershov et al., 2019). Therefore, as contempt for the world was one of the essential features of the Medieval culture, monasteries significantly impacted the transition between the Roman and Medieval worlds.

Furthermore, monasticism was an instrument of the Church to ensure that people respect it and to eliminate heretics. According to Ershov et al. (2019), the implementation of that instrument was mendicant monastic orders, namely Franciscans and Dominicans. Those orders further became the courts of the Inquisition, and their purpose was to pursue heretics (Ershov et al., 2019). The monks were ordered to live only by begging, to dress in rough clothes, to walk barefoot, to be girded by a rope and not to have any property (Ershov et al., 2019, p. 61). That way, monasteries influenced the transition to the Medieval world because monks lives were a model for Medieval culture.

On the whole, Christianity played a significant role in the transition between the Roman and Medieval worlds as it promoted the worldview system that changed the world and became the bridge between the ages. Christianity changed peoples attitudes to their lives because the Church had moral and ideological control over the population. Thus, the Church formed and supported the Christian worldview of life with the help of monasticism. It further became the Churchs instrument to ensure that it is respected and heretics are punished. The Christian religion was a leading element of the Medieval ages formation, shaping its worldview system and determining its path. Therefore, the changes that Christianity brought to peoples lives made the transition to the Medieval world possible and significantly impacted that world.

The Eastern Roman Empire in the Post-Roman World

Historians of modern scientific society have an open debate on whether the fall of Rome was the end of the Roman Empire. An opinion exists that the events related to the fall of Rome did not truly end the Roman Empire, and it continued to flourish in the East. In fact, the Roman Empire found its continuation in the Byzantine Empire and played a significant role in the so-called post-Roman world, which cannot be identified as post-Roman in this case. The Eastern Roman Empire was a model to the outside world, and many historical events happened under Byzantine influence. The Byzantine Empire was a crucial historical period of the Roman Empires development, made its transition into the Medieval state possible, and influenced the formation of the entire world.

As mentioned before, the Byzantine Empire can be considered a transformation of the Roman Empire into a civilization of a new age. According to Bury (2019), Byzantiums culture consisted of the social elements of West and East, fusing into a new, unique culture. The historian states that, though the atmosphere of Eastern Rome was not the same, many elements of the Roman Empire were present in Byzantium (Bury, 2019). The Byzantine spirit was similar to the nature of the Eastern Roman Empire, judging by the archaeological findings and historical research of the past years (Bury, 2019). Thus, history cannot consider the Roman Empire dead after the fall of Rome since it continued its life and development in the East as the Byzantine Empire.

Moreover, the Eastern Roman Empire was a significant player in the world political arena, and its influence was a reason for many significant events that occurred in the world while Byzantium existed. The Byzantine Empire was a strong centralized state, and such political conditions became a model for many other countries (Bury, 2019). Many tribes that were weakly correlated followed the example of the Eastern Roman Empire, joining each other and forming new forms of government (Bury, 2019).

Furthermore, many historical conditions empowered the impact of the Byzantine Empire, including the fall of slave-holding construction, feudal fragmentation, cultural regress, and others (Bury, 2019). These events destroyed many achievements of the ancient world, whereas Byzantium managed to save them (Bury, 2019). Therefore, the Eastern Roman Empire was a model to the outside world, and many states were formed following its example.

Summing up, the Roman Empire did not die with the fall of Rome but continued its existence in the East as the Byzantine Empire, significantly influencing the world in its turn into the Medieval state. Byzantium saved many social and cultural elements of the Roman Empire and blended them into a unique culture. Rome cannot be considered an indeed fallen empire as Byzantium was a continuation of Roman history. Furthermore, the Eastern Roman Empire had a critical impact on the outside world because it managed to save many ancient achievements that other state states lost when the transition to the Medieval age began. The Byzantine Empire was a role model to the world in many ways, meaning that the so-called post-Roman world formed under the influence of Roman culture.

References

Bury, J. B. (2019). History of the Eastern Roman Empire: From the fall of Irene to the accession of Basil I. e-artnow.

Ershov, B. A., Belorukov, S. A., Bykov, A. G., & Serikov, T. A. (2019). The role of the church in medieval society. Bulletin Social-Economic and Humanitarian Research, 1(3), 58-64. Web.

Aztec and Christian Creationism

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Various cultures around the world have unique creation myths and traditional methods of presenting them through art. The cosmology of the Aztec civilization was quite different from the Europeans that conquered them. Firstly, the Europeans Christian God created mankind in his own image and granted him dominion over a perfectly constructed world, the Garden of Eden (Holy Bible, New International Version, Genesis 1:27). In the Bible, he is described as a benevolent, if strict, father figure who can forgive humankind their sins and grant them eternal redemption. Consequently, God is depicted in art as a wise, older man with a beard and white hair. Christian art primarily praises the power of His forgiveness and the bountiful nature that He created.

In contrast, Aztec creation stories are based on dismembered gods, and thus the origin of the world is catastrophic violence, which explains why Aztec art depicts divinity as gruesome and awe-inspiring (National University, 2022). Their art functions as a warning and an order to obey. They demand blood in exchange for food, and each sculpture of the gods in Aztec culture contains a receptacle for human hearts (National University, 2022). Unlike Christianity, the central figure is a female goddess, but similarly to Eve, she is primarily a passive player whom the other gods punish. Furthermore, Coatliques choice to give birth a second time against her childrens wishes could also be interpreted as the Aztec version of Eves sin of disobedience.

Both Aztec and Christian gods are described as perfect and self-contained. However, in the Aztec mythos, gods are above the concepts of good and evil, while in the Christian order evil is considered the dominion of Satan and the opposite of God. Therefore, Aztecs have to appease a bloodthirsty, violent goddess to receive food and survive. On the other hand, Christians have to reject sin and submit their spirit to God to gain eternal salvation. Ultimately, the Christian creation story is based on forgiveness and love compared to the Aztecs survival through violence, and this difference is reflected in their opposing art styles.

References

Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Bible Gateway. Web.

National University. (2022). Lecture.

The Meaning of Christian Caring in Nursing

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

The role of physical caring is the same for different religions as well as the importance of prayer for believers as part of spiritual interventions. For instance, prayer can be a part of nursing care when it is provided to other family members. As recorded in Genesis 25:21, Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant (Biblica, 2011). However, patients and/or their families may refuse the spiritual interventions offered as a part of the nursing care (Shelley & Miller, 1999, p. 230).

The difference between religions should not influence the way nursing care is delivered. However, some nurses may have specific religious views and beliefs that do not coincide or may even contradict the beliefs of the patient and the family. In this respect, ethical decisions should come first as the health care ethical code requires it. Moreover, it is illegal to impose certain beliefs on people if they do not want that and, especially, on patients when he/she is in a vulnerable condition.

Shelley and Miller (1999) report that though Nurses can provide only a small, though significant, part of the whole spectrum of spiritual care (p. 241), it will be a ministry of compassionate health care to anyone in need (p. 246). As such, Gods plan of redemption can be related to nursing care as nurses help people find peace in their souls. As said in Psalm 130:7, Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption (Biblica, 2011). So, believing in God and obeying his laws is advice that nurses can give to patients so that they could become worthy of redemption.

As nurses should be objective to all patients and provide health care services to the population regardless of their income status, the responsibilities of the nursing profession to the poor and oppressed of our society include mercifulness, compassion, and kindness. The nursing staff is not responsible for poverty; so, they are not obliged to give all their earnings to the poor. At the same time, it is necessary to think about their responsibilities in the hospital where people can have some portion of compassion from nurses when being treated and provided with spiritual care.

Christian faith integration plays a crucial role in the perception of different situations by people. For instance, when one person who believes in God finds him-/herself in a difficult situation, he/she can always find compassion and help from co-believers. As reported by Colson and Pearcy (1999), Statues of the saints were said to bleed, weep, perform miracles, and even grant indulgences& (p. 445). As such, people tend to believe in miracles and go to statues of saints in search of salvation: This is the clearest manifestation of Christian faith integration.

Pain and suffering are integral parts of the health care profession when people experience pain or lose their relatives and suffer from those losses. Christian faith integration is a unique way of finding a universal method for solving problems and coping with pain and suffering. At the same time, the Christian perspective offers an interpretation of pain and suffering as ways to examine the faith and different virtues of people by God.

Reference List

Biblica. (2011). Bible: New International Version. BibleGateway. Web.

Colson, C., & Pearcy, N. (1999). How now shall we live? Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Shelley, J. A., & Miller, A. B. (1999). Called to care. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

Moral Rules, Christian Morality and Healthcare Environments

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Table of Contents

Why People Cannot Make up Their Own Moral Rules?
Comparison of Source of Christian Morality and Sources of Other Ethical Systems
Should Christian Morality Be Integrated into Secular Healthcare Environments?
References

Why People Cannot Make up Their Own Moral Rules?

Morals are developed out of personal principles since values are the basis of an individuals capability to judge what is right or wrong. In Proverbs 14:12, the Bible says, There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death. (Proverbs 14:12 New International Version). The passage means that what seems appropriate in human eyes could be a source of their destruction; therefore, there is a need for supernatural guidance when it comes to moral issues. Deceptively, individuals are swift to change their morals depending on the pursuit of self-interest; thus, it is inappropriate to make their own moral rules.

Comparison of Source of Christian Morality and Sources of Other Ethical Systems

Christianity ethics, commonly known as moral theology, are the virtue of morals that emphasize building an honorable personality and a deontological ethic. They are referred to as divine command theory and they assess choices. Hence, natural laws recognize that humans are created in Gods image as beings capable of cooperating and discerning. The source of Christian morals is the Holy Scripture (Bible), and they do not change because of personal interest or time. Other sources of the ethical system include culture and law, whereby the former bring understanding between communities sharing common beliefs, values, and morality. On the other hand, law guides how people live and conduct daily business. All types of morality and ethics allow people to live in harmony and face the consequences of their actions when morals are not followed.

Should Christian Morality Be Integrated into Secular Healthcare Environments?

Association between the faith-based and medical industries is multidimensional and has been in existence for several decades including partnership public healthcare. Inside the Christian traditions, faith and medicine have been more of mutuality, cooperation, and shared values (Levin, 2016). Christian morals should be entranced in healthcare since they have always had essential moral significance and guidance to an individuals wellbeing and healthcare.

References

Levin, J. (2016). Partnerships between the faith-based and medical sectors: Implications for preventive medicine and public health. Preventive Medicine Reports, 4, 344-350. Web.

New International Version. (2011). Zondervan Online. Web.

Christian Biblical Narrative and Decision-Making in Health Care

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

When applying Biblical narrative to medical ethics, the concept constitutes four major phenomena: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. The notion of creation stands for the process of God creating everything known to human nature, with human beings set apart from other creatures (Grand Canyon University, 2020). In such a context, the existence of human beings is inseparable from God. In medical ethics, creation serves as a pillar for serving patients in the name of God, as people have the moral obligation to look out for others since everyone is brought to this world for a reason.

The second concept, fall, represents sin in the guise of illness and death. From this perspective, since the fall of Adam and Eve, human nature has become flawed and vulnerable in the face of sin and temptation. However, while people are to find peace and God in order to obtain from sin, no sinner hall be deprived of a second chance and help while seeking spiritual redemption. Thus, the medical practice serves as an embodiment of salvation in the world replete with the manifestations of evil (Orr, 2015). Redemption, for its part, is the process of healing the human soul from evil and sin.

In the medical context, health professionals serve as Gods followers designated to exercise His blessings on earth with the help of medicine. Finally, the notion of restoration stands for one of the central ideas in the Bible: the new creation that would excel the limitation of the original creation (Grand Canyon University, 2020). The phenomenon of redemption manifests the limitations of the current medical practice, whereas the ultimate battle with death is not a terminal stage in ones journey. Such an aspect of spirituality for human life serves as an assisting tool to explain medical or personal decisions inexplicable by the conventional medical paradigm.

It is the concept of redemption that provides people with hope in the light of illness, as it shows that human sins, although make physical existence finite, allow for finding eternal spiritual peace. Moreover, it makes it easier for both patients and professionals to believe in the power of miraculous healing, which seems like an important part of treatment for me personally. It would be safe to say that while the Miracle itself should not always be regarded as verity, its presence in human life is sometimes a driving force for saving lives and making ethically difficult decisions.

References

Grand Canyon University. (2020). Practicing dignity: An introduction to Christian values and decision making in health care. Web.

Orr, R. D. (2015). Incorporating spirituality into patient care. AMA Journal of Ethics, 17(5), 409-415.

Christian vs. Muslim Marriages Comparison and Contrast

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Marriage is a lawfully recognized relationship between a man and a woman who have made a legal agreement to live together. A wedding is a civil or religious ceremony conducted in the presence of the family and friends of the bride and groom, to celebrate the beginning of their marriage. In contrast with many cultures and religions, the actual act of marriage , begins during the wedding ceremony (Wikipedia.org) which is conducted in two stages: the first part involving the formal exchange of marriage vows in a religious house, and the second part involving celebration of the event . In both cases, a wedding is a dignified, somber and sacred contract between a man and a woman.

The first part of a Muslim and Christian wedding exchange of marriage vows has many similarities. Both are contained in an act of worship {Ibadah for Muslims and the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony for Christians} that is conducted in a religious house .

A religious official formally asks the couple if they willingly consent to the marriage . When the couple accepts their vows, wedding rings are exchanged between them.

The religious official then announces the marriage to the assembled people in a speech , during which he talks about the past lives of the bride and groom, and their new responsibilities as man and wife. The religious official then makes a special address to God {prayer for Christians and dua for Muslims} for the well being and happiness of the married couple, their families and the religious community {congregation for Christians and ummah for Muslims} in general.

The first part of the wedding ceremony concludes with the signing of the marriage contract (Muslims call it nikaahnama). The bride and groom sign the contract, which is then signed by two adult and sane witnesses. The marriage contract is then kept as an official record in the religious house , as well as registered with the local government authorities (Goamatrimonials.com).

The first part of the wedding ceremony of Christians and Muslims is different in some ways. The first difference concerns the marriage contract. Unlike Christians, the Muslim bride and groom have the choice to accept the usual terms and conditions of the marriage contract or require them to be amended (Goamatrimonials.com). It is not mandatory for the Muslim bride to be present when the contract is prepared.

She is permitted to give a verbal power of attorney to an older male relative to agree on her behalf on the clauses of the marriage contract, including the amount of the marriage-gift that should be paid to her. Muslims consider the mahr clause as mandatory because the Holy Quran says: Give the women their mahr as a free gift . Mahr is looked upon as a symbol of the grooms dedication.

It may take the form of cash, moveable or immovable assets. It may be paid during the wedding ceremony or later. It is also allowed to be paid in parts: one during the wedding ceremony and other/s later; such deferred mahr has to be paid to the wife even if her husband dies or divorces her (Goamatrimonials.com). In a reverse-case scenario, the Christian bride gives marriage-gifts to the groom. However, nearly all countries including European nations and the U.S have banned this system (Wikipedia.org).

Christians instead consider the wedding ring sufficient commitment on the part of the couple to look after each other until their vow death do us part. The second difference is the attire worn by the bride and groom. A Christian bride wears a pure white wedding gown, while a Muslim bride favors a cherry red gown. A Christian groom prefers the tuxedo , while a Muslim groom wears a white silk brocade suit and a turban (Wikipedia.org).

The third difference is that Christian weddings take place with pomp and grandeur. The best man, bridesmaid/s, flower girl/s and page boy/s form part of the wedding entourage. The bride walks to the altar on her fathers arm to the strains of a special wedding tune. After the ceremony the newly wedded couple walks down the aisle arm-in-arm while the organ plays The Wedding March (Goamatrimonials.com).

The second part of the wedding ceremony of Muslims and Christians is similar in one way: both are conducted in a reception venue . Family members, relatives and friends of the bride and groom are invited to the celebration.

This second part of the wedding ceremony is different in many ways. First of all, Muslims consider it their duty (Goamatrimonials.com) to have a simple, low-key wedding banquet . No alcohol is served in keeping with the Muslim law that forbids the use of alcohol. Christians celebrate their weddings with light -hearted festivity marked with dancing, started off by the couples bridal waltz (Wikipedia.org), eating and drinking. Alcoholic drinks are provided in abundance.

Before departing with her new husband in their wedding car, the bride tosses her bouquet over her shoulder to a group of unmarried women it is thought that whoever catches it will be the next one to get married (Wikipedia.org). The second difference is that the expenses of the reception are paid by the Christian brides family {Wikipedia.org); in Asia and other parts of the world the expenses are shared equally by the families of the bride and groom, while in case of Muslims in general, the grooms family is expected to shoulder the entire reception cost. The third difference concerns gifts.

In case of Muslims, gifts are exchanged between the families of the bride and groom as a symbol of welcome into their respective families (Worldweddingtraditions.com). Guests are not required to bring gifts to the reception. Guests of Christian weddings usually give gifts to the couple during the reception. However in countries like the U.S. and Canada, gifts are given before the wedding a gift-giving party called the bridal shower is given by the bridesmaid/s for the bride before her wedding, where guests bring gifts for the home of the bride and groom (Wikipedia.org).

References used

Muslim Wedding Traditions. Worldweddingtraditions.com. 2004. Web.
Wedding. Wikipedia.org. 2008. Web.
Wedding Rituals. Goamatrimony.com. (N.d). Web.

Framework Selection for Christian Labor Study

Posted on December 22, 2024 | by Laureen

Table of Contents

Appropriate Framework
Relevance of the Selected Framework
Example of the Framework
References

Appropriate Framework

To identify an optimal framework to explore the failure of Christians to understand the aim of their work resulting in the inability to serve Gods true commandments, the key causative factors of the issue should be taken into account. According to Grimes and Bennett (2017), many people lack sufficient knowledge to follow bible rules and promote workplace spirituality to match true Christians image and not forget their purpose in the earthly life. In this regard, the most convenient and appropriate model to utilize is a theoretical framework based on applying relevant aspects explaining specific labor conditions and individual initiatives. Ali and Anwar (2021) propose a model based on job satisfaction and includes several variables to identify specific correlations between them and determine the incentives driving employee behavior. Since the non-observance of Gods commandments in the workplace is caused by peoples internal beliefs, their personal motives and rationales should be viewed as the key factors influencing their organizational behavior. Therefore, such a theoretical framework is appropriate in this context and may help study the issue under consideration as accurately as possible.

Relevance of the Selected Framework

The selected theoretical framework is convenient for identifying relevant causes and preconditions based on the general theory rather than unique and individual ideas and beliefs. In the topic in question, while following a conceptual framework, the research process could be perceived as subjective and biased due to the personal nature of religion and its perception by different people. Imenda (2014) states that a theoretical framework is a set of generally accepted concepts explaining a particular phenomenon, event, or issue. As a result, the job satisfaction framework is a convenient methodology to apply to the case of inconsistencies in employee organizational behavior with biblical rules to identify which incentives are key in influencing workers perceptions of their labor conditions. According to Ali and Anwar (2021), whose frame is utilized, job satisfaction is the most studied field of organizational behavior (p. 22). This means that the variables involved are easy to evaluate and are generally accepted criteria for analysis to find appropriate relationships among them.

Example of the Framework

As an example of a theoretical framework to apply to research the issue raised, the sample in Figure 1 can be utilized. Rhodes and Pullen (2017) argue that entrepreneurs behavior is often contrary to biblical canons because business owners often see power as given to them without limit. This approach is a violation of Gods rules since, in accordance with the doctrine of Christianity, service to God is one of the humans main purposes on earth (Grimes & Bennett, 2017). Therefore, the framework in Figure 1 can be used to show that job satisfaction is not a static concept and is shaped by a number of other variables that, in turn, depend on relevant organizational rules and policies.

The presented structure may help address the gap in the research area and prove that a theoretical background is an essential component of valid activities. Serving God, whether in the workplace or in daily activities, reveals itself in the perception of incentives that affect peoples behavior. Therefore, analyzing different influences is an appropriate method for assessing the issue under consideration and drawing the necessary conclusions.

References

Ali, B. J., & Anwar, G. (2021). An empirical study of employees motivation and its influence on job satisfaction.International Journal of Engineering, Business and Management, 5(2), 21-30. Web.

Grimes, M. A., & Bennett, R. H. (2017). Christ-centered leadership: God-honoring leadership for committed Christians. Journal of Biblical Integration in Business, 20(1), 24-35.

Imenda, S. (2014). Is there a conceptual difference between theoretical and conceptual frameworks?Journal of Social Sciences, 38(2), 185-195. Web.

Rhodes, C., & Pullen, A. (2017). Critical business ethics: From corporate selfinterest to the glorification of the sovereign pater. International Journal of Management Reviews, 20(2), 483-499. Web.

Christian Foundations in Government: Human Trafficking

Posted on December 20, 2024 | by Laureen

Introduction

Human trafficking or trafficking in human beings is defined as the movement of people without their consent, usually by means of force for the intention of sexual or labor exploitation. Those who are mostly at risk of trafficking are women and children. Trafficking takes the form of kidnapping for the reason of sexual and domestic service, for debt discharge, the exchange of women for the resolution of disputes, forced prostitution and the sexual abuse of children. They fall victim to traffickers out of poverty and the lack of opportunity in their home countries.

Trafficking has been considered as a worldwide illegal activity. This is because it has no concern or deference of state borders and boundaries. The profits obtained from trafficking supply the reserves of organized crime. Trafficking, is then encouraged by such other criminal activities as document scams, money laundering and mostly immigrant smuggling. (Population Today 2002, 1).

Analysis

According to the US department of Justice, human trafficking is a type of modern day slavery that is of a high scale. For this reason, it is also both labor and time demanding activity. That said, according to the Department, 700 000 to 2 million people, the majority of whom are women and children , fall victim to traffickers each year. The trafficking is usually across international borders. Accordingly, 35% of these victims are usually under the age of 18 years. According to a report by population today, human trafficking is some kind of big business. It is reportedly the third largest source of profits for organized crime after drugs and guns, making billions of dollars each year. (Population Today 2002, 1, 4). Again, the Department of Justice estimates that some 17 000 people are trafficked into the United States each year and forced into labor or sex slavery for diminutive or no pay. These people are also often subjected to inhumane treatment and abuses both physically and mentally. On its part, the United Nations estimates that worldwide, there are between 20-27 million people who are being held in slavery, by violence, against their will, and for no pay. According to the US under secretary of state for global affairs, the number of victims involved in sexual and other kinds of trafficking has been growing steadily since the 1990s. As at 2000, the figures stood at 700 000 to 4 million people trafficked every year across borders. The trafficking of women and children was rampant with many of them consequently being forced into prostitution. For instance, some 45 000 to 50 000 women and children and an unidentified number of men it was estimated in 1997, had been trafficked into the US according to the US Department of State. Ultimately, human trafficking is world wide human rights crisis that involves an estimated 2 million people in a year. These victims are usually trafficked from , Asia, , Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union, Latin America and Africa. Concurrently, it is also estimated that some 1 million children, primarily fro Asia fall victim to trafficking each year. Again, about 500 00 children of Brazilian origin are forced into prostitution each year while an estimated 250 000 women and children from Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union are transported each year to other countries including to the United States. (Christian Century 2000, 449-450).According to international laws enforcement officials, human being are the most profitable goods that are illegally traded in after guns and drugs. (Detroit Free press, 2004).

According to Masci, with 27 million people held in some kind of slavery, forced prostitution and bonded labor, human trafficking still flourishes in the world. The problem lies in the fact that while humanitarian groups engage in the buying of captives independence as a way of putting an end to the slavery, forced labor and prostitution, the action is counter productive in that it encourages even more trafficking. This is worthwhile, booming business for the traffickers, they will just traffic more slaves whose autonomy will be bought off by the humanitarian groups. More women and children will ultimately be transported across borders to captivity. On the same line, even with the strengthening of laws and acts such as the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, in the US, thousands of women are still trafficked within its borders. The problem lies in the fact that the act is not considered as tough enough. Politics is the interfering factor. For instance, certain US partners who are known to harbor notorious traffickers are usually treated with kid gloves. The reason, there seems no need to spoil the rapport that exists between these countries even for such serious issues as human trafficking. Clearly, there is no will and commitment to address and end this critical issue. (Masci, 2004).

Documented examples or cases illustrating human trafficking

Human trafficking is really alive and rampant as illustrated by the following cases.

Case 1: According to the BBC, the gangs (informal immigration officials) that are involved in the traffic of humans from China and into Europe charge as much as 30 000 dollars for each person. This is clearly a huge some of money for most victims. However, sometimes their families and even villages chip in. After all, the person will be escaping poverty and there is a likelihood that if he/she makes it abroad, his family and village will benefit too. The trafficking involves the victims targeted for Britain being hidden in the back of lorries for ferries that cross over from mainland Europe. Nonetheless, circumstances change when they get to their destination. They are usually kidnapped and held hostage where they are threatened with death unless their families cough up huge sums of money as ransom. They become hostages subjected to abuse and poor living conditions. The women are more often than not forced into prostitution. (BBC News, 2001).

Case 2: In 2002, six people were charged in New York for trafficking some 40 Mexicans and using them for forced labor. The six had been lured from the state of Arizona after promises of better paying work in New York. This marked the very first time that the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act of 2000 had been put to use. According to the Act, the penalty for using force labor on victims would attract a penalty of 20 years in prison. (Anti slavery.org, 2002).

Why human trafficking is an issue of concern, its effects and sources

Human trafficking has always been an issue, it can be traced all the way back to the bible. Most people, even the kings, kept for themselves slaves for different purposes. These slaves were obviously obtained by certain means. It would therefore be correct to conclude that trafficking was one of them. However, trafficking has reached a high magnitudes in modern day terms. Trafficking targets mostly women and children due to the fact that they are the most vulnerable members of society. These people tend to be the most affected when it come to the disparities in wealth and even income. As they search for better living standards, to escape poverty and seek better economic activities, they fall victim to the traffickers. This is exacerbated by the fact that in the developed countries, there is growing need for cheap labor tied with the need of these vulnerable groups, who mostly lead precarious lives, to experience better lives. Demand in the developing countries for cheap labor is what fuels human trafficking in countries of origin. Thus, they seek out what could be termed as informal (illegal) migration methods hence falling victim to traffickers. This is almost always supported by certain cultures where women and children occupy less status with little or no rights. In the end human trafficking results in untold suffering and even death for most of the victims. Children are robbed of the chance to experience their innocent childhood. In other cases, the families end up poorer than before as they cough out untold sums of money just to get passes from informal migration officials. In addition, it presents immense problems to countries as they seek to deal with the problem which requires large sums of money to effectively deal with. Think of all the personnel needed and even the money used by humanitarian groups to buy off the freedom of the captives. (Office of crime victims advocacy, 2004).

Approach taken by experts and analysts

For a long time policies have been formulated for implementation as a way of addressing the human trafficking issue. This is both at the international and even national levels. For instance, in 2000, the United Nations adopted the Protocol to Prevent , Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons especially Women and Children. These set of rules were designed to supplement the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. Accordingly, it was to help in strengthening preceding international agreements dating as far back as 1904. In the United States, in 2000 congress approved the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) that was intended at preventing trafficking, punishing traffickers, in addition to defending and supporting trafficked persons. The TVPA aims at protecting those considered to be victims of what is referred to as severe forms of trafficking. These includes those subjected to sex trafficking brought on by way of force, deception or intimidation and especially in cases where the victims is less that 18 years old. It also prevents the enrollment, harboring, shipping, provision or obtaining people for labor services by way of force, deceit and compulsion. (Office of crime victims advocacy 2004) Internationally there are such laws as The Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others which seeks to prevent the trafficking of women especially for purposes of prostitution. (TED case studies 2008).

Proposals for solutions or policy responses

In order that human trafficking can be effectively dealt with, there is need for certain things to be put in place. First, there is need for the drawing and execution of a service delivery system in all countries and especially where human trafficking is rampant. This means that the relevant expertise that can appropriately identify and respond to the victims of trafficking (victim assistance) need to be created. In addition, local responders and other people dealing in curtailing human trafficking such as law enforcers, medical personnel, social services and community service providers need the necessary awareness, skills and expertise. More over, a system of documentation that serves to determine the frequency and pervasiveness of trafficking within particular areas need to be put in place. (Office of crime victims advocacy, 2004).

Kemeny posits that it is important to analyze two important institutions in an attempt to address the issue of human trafficking. This then means addressing the mission of the church, the purpose of government and how the two should relate to one another with respect to the justice system. (2007) Should the laws of the church precede the laws of the state, do the traditional laws carry more weight than modern laws? According to ODonovan and ODonovan, the overriding political good rests in enhancing human freedom individually and collectively whether older or modern tradition is followed. (2004).

Leithart on his part opines that there is a need to explore the strengths and weaknesses of postmodernism theory. To Leithart, the theory reflects the important biblical factor of elusiveness and instability of the world. This is important in explaining why human trafficking exists. But he goes on to show that biblical faith takes us beyond pessimism and desperation. This means that all is not lost in finding a lasting solution into human trafficking. (2008).

According to Lewis, the solution lies in public education and activism. To him there are inherent ramifications in teaching relativism, as opposed to values of objectivity, the belief that a certain approach is really factual, and others false, to the type of thing the world is and the kinds of things people are. To Lewis, this is the Tao. The society needs a sense of objective values. More so morality. A proactive approach to end human trafficking is both moral and an objective value. (1944).

There is a need to implement controls that seek to ensure the enforcement of both local and international laws. This in turn calls for the strengthening of political cooperation between countries. More over, there should be a strict observance of the international standards and laws that are already in place. This means that known human traffickers should not be able to hide in the laws of foreign countries. There should be no loop holes in the laws pertaining to human trafficking. It should be put to an end and all governments should work together towards this. (Office of crime victims advocacy, 2004).

Lobbying could result in the formulation of policies that seek to protect the victims of human trafficking even more. For instance, the anti slavery international organization in Europe lobbies at both the national and international level for the application of better human rights as way of protecting the victims of human trafficking. (Anti slavery.org, 2008).

Obstacles and limitations

As much as countries would like to provide such services as victim assistance, they are usually limited by certain factors. For instance, legal provisions bar the undocumented migrants from the benefits and services linked with victim assistance. In most cases, those individuals that are trafficked but not acknowledged and documented by law enforcement as victims of severe forms of trafficking under the Trafficking Victims Protections Act (TVPA) are usually detained as criminals or deported. More over, the statutes do not allow for the legal representation of these trafficked individuals who are not documented. This has important consequences. Because the trafficked individuals are scared of deportations and detention since they do no fit in with the definition of victims of severe forms of trafficking, they never seek help. This is in turn a drawback in the documentation into the incidences and prevalence of trafficking. The result is that adequate policies cannot be formulated and implemented to address the situation.

There is also the lack of adequate funding to keep the victims assistance service running. Bills have to be paid and the personnel effectively trained so they can give services efficiently. Governments and other agencies also have other pressing issues that need to be dealt with. However, there has to be commitment and cooperation from all the stake holders involved for overall success in addressing the human trafficking issue. (Office of crime victims advocacy 2004)

Conclusion

Human trafficking can simply be defined as trade in human beings/people. Human trafficking has over the years become the most profitable trading venture after drugs and guns. It is part of organized crime. People are transported from their homes to foreign countries on the promise of better paying jobs and even better living conditions. The most vulnerable groups include women and children. Mostly, these people end up as victims in either force labor and in the case of women, prostitution. According to the US Department of State, human trafficking is widespread. An estimated 2 million people are trafficked every year. Human trafficking is an issue of concern because it traverses national and international boundaries. It results not only in the death but also the suffering of the victims. In addition it results in making their economic situations even worse than before because they pay huge sums of money to get their tickets abroad while other times they have to pay huge sums as ransom. More over it presents countries with immense legal and social problems. Thus there has been a need for appropriate policies to be put in place to effectively deal with the crisis. Still, the policies need the cooperation of all stake holders if they are to work effectively. However, there are still obstacles in the form of legal restrictions especially for those who do not qualify as victims of severe forms of trafficking. This needs to be addressed as they are the major reasons why the war on human trafficking has not been entirely successful.

References

Anti slavery.org. Forced labor case marks a first for US law. (2002). Web.

Anti slavery.org. Trafficking programme. (2008). Web.

BBC News. Human trafficking: Chinese gangs cruel trade. (2001).

Human trafficking exposes. Population Today 30, no. 1 (2002): 1,4.

Kemeny, P.C. Church, State and Public Justice: Five views. Downers grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2007.

Leithart, Peter J. Solomon among the post moderns. Grand rapids, Michigan: Branzos press, 2008.

Lewis, C.S. The abolition of man. New York: Harper Collins, 1944.

Masci, David. Human trafficking and slavery. Are the worlds nations doing enough to stamp it out? CQ Researcher 14, no.12 (2004).

ODonovan, Joan Lockwood & ODonovan Oliver. Bonds of imperfection: Christian politics past and present. Grand Rapid, Michigan: Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing company, 2004.

Office of Crime victims advocacy. Human trafficking: Present day slavery. (2004).

Sex on the block. Detroit Free Press. (2004): 4l.

Sexual trafficking on the rise. Christian Century, 117, no. 13 (2000): 449-450.

TED case studies. Trafficking in Russian women: Sexual exploitation as a growing form of international trade. (2008).