Literalism vs. Contextualism: Unpacking Biblical Interpretation
Literalism upholds the Bible's authority, providing a clear standard by taking the text at face value. However, it overlooks literary devices, clashes with scientific evidence, and struggles with discrepancies, lacking flexibility to address diverse contexts.
The Bridge Between Christianity and Islam
The Christianization of Europe was marked by bloodshed and upheaval. From the Sack of Jerusalem in 1099 to the Baltic Crusades, Christianity's spread was often accompanied by wars, massacres, and forced conversions. The Albigensian Crusade of 1209–1229 stands out for its brutality, while the Reconquista and Baltic Crusades reshaped the religious and cultural landscape. These events challenge the notion of Christianity as a religion of peace, revealing a complex history stained with violence.
Evolution of God – God’s Identity Crisis
From the early stages of polytheism to the Instagrammable deity of today, the concept of God in Judaism has transformed drastically. Initially transcendent and unrepresentable, Yahweh evolved into a more tangible figure, challenging traditional beliefs. Christianity further humanized the divine, depicting Jesus and saints in recognizable forms. This evolution reflects not only changes in spirituality but also the influence of cultural contexts on religious expression, highlighting humanity's eternal quest to understand the ineffable.