August 11, 2025

A History of Violence? The Bible on Violence, Suffering, and Hope

Key Points

Violence in the Bible encompasses various forms, illustrating its pervasive influence in theological discussions and interpretations.
Key analysis focuses on both personal and mass violence, with divine involvement spotlighted especially in the Book of Revelation.
The approach includes examining agents and victims of violence, along with ethical justifications and theological perspectives outlined throughout the narratives.
Understanding these dynamics reveals a complex relationship between violence and hope, offering insights into the Christian narrative of salvation.

Abstract

The essay explores the troubling yet central role of violence in the Bible. First, it outlines how violence appears across biblical narratives – ranging from personal to mass violence, both physical and psychological, and often with divine involvement. Four analytical axes are proposed: the phenomenology of violence, its spatial dimensions (human, divine, satanic), the agents/victims involved (including divine actors), and its ethical justifications or theological explanations. Special attention is given to the Book of Revelation. Its interpretations vary – from metaphorical and redemptive readings to critical and feminist critiques that view its message as tyrannical or dangerous. Despite its disturbing elements, Revelation is ultimately framed within the Christian drama of Christ’s sacrificial death, cosmic salvation, and eschatological hope. Article history: Received 03.05.2025; Revised 05.05.2025; Accepted 15.05.2025.Available online: 26.06.2025. Available print: 30.07.2025.

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