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In terms of civilian casualties directly and indirectly caused by the war, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Movement was the largest war in world history in the second half of the nineteenth century and had a strong East Asian Christian background. This article adopts the ‘historical contextualism’ approach of the Cambridge School in the history of political thought, and through a comparison of the relevant views of Karl Marx, Max Weber and Kang Youwei, it reveals that this intentional omission comes from a specific combination of modernisation routes and modernisation political construction choices. In contemporary China, the study of Christian theory and the practice of church organisation still need to answer the question of the general public as to whether Christianity can bring about a better life, both materially and spiritually. Contribution: This article pointed out that three contemporaries, Marx, Weber and Kang, all evaluated the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Movement as a revolution of Christianity in China from the standpoint of ‘China’s need for modernisation’, but differed in their evaluation of the position and role of the religious reform factor in the process of modernisation in China. However, they differed in their assessment of the position and role of the Reformation factor in the process of modernisation in China. The article reveals that for Protestant Christianity in contemporary China, it is still necessary to carefully handle its relationship with the government and to satisfy the people’s real needs for a modernised material and spiritual life. Meanwhile, it sheds light on the issue of ‘heterocultural adaptability’ brought about by the expansion and spread of Protestant Christianity in East Asia, as well as on the question of whether Protestantism and Confucianism in the process of modern conversion can achieve peaceful coexistence.

This study elaborated on the explanation of theosophical Sufism in the book of al-Hikam by two well-known Islamic academics, Kyai Sholeh Darat (Indonesia) and Shaykh ‘Abdullah Gangohi (India). The data in this study are the text of Syarah al-Hikam, written by Kyai Sholeh Darat and the text of Syarah Al-Hikam in the perspective of Shaykh ‘Abdullah Gangohi. This qualitative research study used a Systemic Functional Linguistic (SFL) approach from M.A.K. Halliday. Data analysis in this research applied the Spradley model, namely: (1) domain analysis, (2) taxonomy analysis, (3) componential analysis and (4) analysis of cultural themes. The domain analysis tried to map the information structure in the explanation of al-Hikam based on the theory of SFL. This information structure is the basis for the genre analysis as a semiotic representation of social society. Meanwhile, the taxonomic analysis tried to elaborate on the Sufism thoughts of both the thinkers based on the Syarah al-Hikam text. Componential analysis synergised the results of the information structure and the theosophical Sufism thought in al-Hikam. Finally, the analysis of cultural themes endeavoured to elaborate on the theosophical Sufism thoughts of the two Sufism thinkers and to draw the relationships and the contributions to the universal Sufism. The conditions of theosophical Sufism can be elaborated based on the information structure. The limitation of this study is the lack of researcher’s efforts to investigate the substance of theosophical Sufism, because this research is only limited to the outer layer of language. Contribution: This article shows that the thought of theosophical Sufism showed that Islam in Southeast Asia is Islam that carries the spirit of Islam Rahmatan lil-alamin. In addition, the thought of theosophical Sufism in Syarah al-Hikam has had an impact on the socio-cultural transformation, especially on the Sufism movement [thariqah] spread across Indonesia and India.

The Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal arises from the interaction and dynamic interplay between Grand Canal culture and Buddhist culture. This cultural phenomenon is not merely a simple superimposition of two elements; rather, it represents a unique cultural form that has evolved historically through the intersection of temporal and spatial dimensions. Its connotations can be understood from multiple perspectives, including the ephemerality of time, the dispersion of space, the plurality of types and the intermingling of subject and object. The Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal developed along both sides of the canal and has been historically deposited, embodying an amalgamation of reality and history. Therefore, the study of this culture should not be confined to specific temporal or spatial contexts but should encompass a multidimensional and expansive cultural exploration centred on the Grand Canal. By examining the connection between human excellence and the flow of water within this context, the cultural characteristics of the Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal extend into the cultural flow between the north and south. Here, Buddhist culture serves as the connecting thread, linking, communicating and integrating the spiritual worlds of people across different regions. The scope of research primarily encompasses diverse fields such as Buddhist history, Buddhist thought, cultural relics, social folklore, literature and art. Contribution: This paper emphasises that an in-depth understanding of the connotations and qualities of the Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal is one of the most important ways to correctly understand the culture of the Grand Canal, especially the cross-culture of the Grand Canal and Buddhism, and points out the way in which and the scope of the research should be carried out.

There is a gap in studies focussing on Ndau traditional religion and water. Most research addresses nature conservation rather than examining how water is perceived by the Ndau people. This study aims to explore the relationship between the Ndau and water, filling the gap in understanding the significance of water in the Ndau traditional religion of Zimbabwe. The study was based on a literature review focussing on published works, available as open access on the Internet regarding the Ndau people and their relationship with nature. It was presented from an emic perspective by the author, who was born and bred among the Ndau people of Zimbabwe. The author was conscious of the need not to impose his own views. Triangulation of information from other sources was utilised to ensure the integrity of the data presented in this article. The main findings indicate that the Ndau people of Zimbabwe have a complex relationship with water, which they regard as sacred. They believe that water is protected by spirits. Taboos assist the Ndau in safeguarding water resources for both present and future generations. The study concluded that Ndau traditional leadership, along with the broader Ndau community, should take further action to preserve wetlands and water resources. The sacredness of water among the Ndau must be upheld to ensure the sustainability of these vital resources. Contribution: The article contributes to the discourse on water and spiritualities, focussing on the Ndau people of Zimbabwe. The place of water among the Ndau had not been explored before. The article contributes to the Journal’s focus on sustainable development goals, specifically number 6: Clean water and sanitation.

The task of interpreting the Holy Scriptures has been a daunting enterprise throughout the history of the Church. This article explores how analytic philosophy could be promising in biblical interpretation. Notwithstanding the suspicion related to analytic philosophy, this article argues that analytic philosophy could creatively aid the interpretation of the Holy Scripture. My interest is in how its focus on coherence and clarity of description could add force to making sense of the truth claims of the Bible. I argue that when used creatively, analytic philosophy holds excellent prospects for biblical interpretation, especially in distinguishing between the presupposition of the message of a Bible text and the presupposition of the interpreter. Contribution: The article argues that the omission of the Hebrew Bible from academic discussion in fields like political philosophy or psychology and mainstream philosophy because it is considered a product of revelation that must not be approached using reasoning is a false dichotomy because, in the Scriptures, we find God inviting us to reasoning.

Christian translation is integral to Christian missions that benefit the ingenious people and the gospel. Among early missionary activities, translations of the Bible to vernacular language have tremendous implications for the gospel propagation. Its roots are well spelt out in the early church, which endorsed Christianity as a universal faith. The researchers observe the historical and missiological perspective of Bible translation. They used library materials and internet sources to explain the meaning of translation, such as explaining a text language in the context of the recipients. This article contains a biblical basis for Bible translations, as it was from the early scriptures, and it concludes by explaining the relevance of Christian translation in terms of literacy, preservation of culture and freedom from slavery, among others. Christian translation has helped to create different versions of the Bible; the New Testament alone is available in 1551 languages out of over 7100 languages worldwide. Christian translation shows that Christian missionaries are not another form of a colonising agency because their activities resulted in actions that led to the end of colonisation in many parts of Africa. The author used a descriptive research method for this article. Contribution: From the analysis, Christian translation is a vital part of Christian missions that has many benefits for the ingenious people by preserving their cultural practices and language, among others. It also made Christianity not to be perceived as a foreign religion that has no link with the African Belief system. Christians are to seek to translate more materials, especially the Bible, into other peoples’ languages to have a lasting impact on the indigenous people.

Kumarajiva is a Chinese Buddhist master who came from the western regions of China. His religious thoughts went through a conversion from Hinayana Buddhism to Mahayana Buddhism. Based on the process of Kumarajiva’s thought transformation, this article creatively proposes the consistency between Kumarajiva’s thought transformation and the localisation process of Buddhism in the western regions of China. The article aims to explore Kumarajiva’s special historical status in Chinese Buddhism history, especially the important impact of his Buddhism thoughts on Mahayana Buddhism in the western regions of China, such as Kucha and Gaochang, etc. Contribution: This study reveals the thought transformation process of Kumarajiva, which is paralleled with the localisation process of Buddhism in the western regions of China. This study can offer references towards scholars in the field of religious history, especially in the field of Buddhist history in the western regions of China.

Ulwaluko is an essential rite of passage for men in the Xhosa community in South Africa. This particular initiation rite of passage is a critical part of the transition from boyhood to manhood. In a post-apartheid South Africa, this African practice has received criticism for promoting gender and sexual exclusion with some calling for a halt to the practice. Using Simon Maimela’s theological anthropology and Jackson’s concept of modern slavery as human plasticity, I attempt to expose how post-apartheid constitutionalism has epistemically distorted the theological anthropology of this rite of passage. This is done acknowledging Ulwaluko theologically within the context of African holism. This, I argue, has had significant ethical implications for society. Recognising it as a site of black theological reflection using Maimela’s theological anthropology, I argue that this particular practice can positively influence discourses on morality in South Africa. Contribution: This article makes a theological contribution by situating African and black theology of liberation discourse within the epistemic framework of Ulwaluko as an initiation rite of passage. Recognising the prevalence of initiation rites of passage in South Africa, this discourse attempts to contribute towards thinking about the creation of humanity from these spaces of formation. This I do in the very challenging contexts within which Ulwaluko is practised.

This article analysed the evolution of Haredi Judaism in Israel, highlighting its deep-rooted fundamentalist beliefs and its transformation from a marginalised group to a central force in Israeli society. As the fastest-growing demographic, the Haredi community exemplified the tension between fundamentalism and modernity. The study explored the defining characteristics, political ideologies and social influence of Haredi Judaism in Israel, detailing how it transitioned from insular religious enclaves to active participants in national politics. The article also examined the Haredi impact on Israeli-Palestinian relations, focusing on their influence on party politics, land disputes and Jerusalem-related issues. Contribution: The study enhanced the understanding of Haredi Judaism’s ideological evolution and political integration within Israeli society. It highlighted the Haredim’s influence in shaping Israel’s national identity and policy directions. Additionally, the research elucidated the significant impact of the Haredi community on Israeli-Palestinian relations.

No abstract available.

The contemporary interpretation of Lao-Zhuang’s thought reveals a multidimensional dialogue between tradition and modernity, the local and the exotic, and East and West. The interaction between Lao-Zhuang’s thoughts and Western religious philosophy can be explored through the lens of mysticism. By examining the non-material nature of the Tao, the transcendence of language, and the cultivation goal of the unity of nature and humanity, we can discern the relationship between the cultivation practices in Lao-Zhuang’s thought and religious mysticism. The chaos, uncertainty, infinity and nothingness associated with the non-physical Tao present a subtle and mysterious depiction of nature. The silence of the perfect man, who sees things in terms of the Tao, along with their conversion to the Tao, steadfastness to the Tao, flexibility in treating things according to the Tao and freedom to be one with the Tao, provides an ethical realm of inner cultivation. Through the dialogue between Lao-Zhuang’s philosophy and Western religion, we can uncover the commonalities and differences between Chinese and Western cultures, as well as the significant value of Lao-Zhuang’s thought in contemporary cultural and philosophical discussions. Contribution: This article examines the relationship between cultivation practice in Lao-Zhuang’s thought and religious mysticism from the perspective of cross-cultural research. By discussing the immateriality and infinity of ‘Tao,’ as well as the relationship between Tao and name, speech and debate, it presents the mystery of Tao. Through the non-cognitive practice mode of real people, they experience ‘Tao’ and achieve the realm of ‘Harmony between nature and man,’ demonstrating the mystery of cultivation efforts.

Divine revelations in Islam are not restricted to the spiritual well-being of its followers but aim to guide them towards the realisation of a socio-political organisation, a polity, wherein they can achieve spiritual as well as socio-political excellence. Because of the immense significance of socio-political organisation in Islam, the governance of socio-political organisation is one of the key topics in Islam. The principles of the governance of socio-political organisation in Islam are based on certain divine traditions. This article focusses on five major Islamic divine traditions outlined in Islamic revelatory culture: firstly, the divine tradition of guidance and misguidance; secondly, the divine tradition of Ni’mat [Blessings] and their reversal; thirdly, the divine tradition of the triumph of Haqq’ [Truth] over Báṭil [Falsehood]; fourthly, the divine tradition of the destruction of the oppressors and fifthly, the divine tradition of trial. This article attempts to show that these five Islamic divine traditions form the foundation for the structure and function of the governance system of the first Muslim polity, the city-state of Medina. Contribution: This article highlights the role of Islamic divine traditions in the structure and function of the governance system of the first Muslim polity, the city-state of Medina.

The term Zongjiao [宗教] originally referring to the teachings of Buddhism and Chinese ancestral worship was not considered the equivalent for the English term ‘religion’ until the late 19th century when Japanese translated religion as shūkyō [宗教]. The later introduction of the concept of Zongjiao into China via Japan triggered a deep exploration of the differences between religion and Jiao among Chinese intellectuals like Liang Qichao, Kang Youwei and Peng Guangyu, representing Chinese scholars’ conceptualisation and reflections of Chinese traditional religious belief, practices and phenomena within the context of Western religious culture. Rather than a simple lexical selection, the translation of ‘religion’ essentially was a process of making the notion of ‘religion’ in China, which had provided valuable insight into the nature of Chinese Confucianism culture and was closely related to the understanding of the state–church relationship in China. With continuous cultural exchanges and integration, reflecting on this translation process will provide a more inclusive perspective on the complexity and diversity of religions and facilitate mutual learning. Contribution: This article briefly reviews the process of accepting Zongjiao [宗教] as the equivalent for the Western term ‘religion’ in China, in order to shed light on how such translation has influenced people’s understanding of religion and the inclusiveness contained in the study of religion.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) isset to revolutionise global knowledge domains and biblical hermeneutics is no exception. At face value, in Zimbabwe, AI has been stigmatised as a humanistic and profane technological system with an immense propensity to cause general religious backsliding, degeneracy, vain philosophising and secularisation of the Gospel of Christ. This article isolated Colossians 2:8 as a lens to investigate the congruency of Artificial Intelligence to the pericope’s scope of ‘philosophy, vain deceit, tradition of men and rudiments of the world’. The Zimbabwean setting was used to examine whether the Colossian Christian Church’s philosophical aspersions bear any semblances to how AI is viewed among the clergy, theologians, Christian believers and academics of religious studies. The qualitative methodological paradigms of African Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegetical Method were employed in the study. The study mainly established that AI, like a tool in the hands of a workman, can either build or destroy, enhance or adulterate biblical hermeneutics depending on how it is viewed and used. Contribution: The article reflects on how the world’s most nascent technological development, Artificial Intelligence, impacts on biblical interpretation generally, but, more particularly, in the Zimbabwean context.

Travellers on the N4 highway just east of Pretoria can see evidence of a sacred spring next to the road with pilgrims moving around the landscape and collecting water. This research explored this place – called ‘En Four’ by some – and described visits and conversations had at the site in 2024. The first part of the research narrated the encounters and recorded the local and anecdotal knowledge shared by pilgrims and visitors. The research then analysed the religious significance of the water-based rituals using Rodney Stark’s religion-sociological theory of religion: it identified evidence of magic, prayer, ritual and mysticism. Finally, a number of findings considered the use, value and care of water at this religious site: En Four offers various religious experiences, contributes to mental and physical health and may enhance social cohesion and understanding. Contribution: This research recorded an important, but still undocumented, religious site, as well as the activities and rituals enacted at this place. It interpreted the African water-rituals uniquely from a religion-sociological perspective, also indicating its significance for both individuals and society. This contributed to an interreligious dialogue on, and reappreciation of water as being holy and transformative.

According to historical analysis and textual interpretation, the propagation of the Catholic doctrine of the Trinity in the Ming and Qing dynasties was closely related to Matteo Ricci. When entering China, Ricci put forward the ‘Theory of Buddhist-Daoist Plagiarism’, asserting that Buddhism and Taoism had plagiarised the Catholic doctrine on the triune God. As for Confucianism, he pointed out that the ancient Confucian classics did not contain the doctrine of the Trinity, which he attributed to various facters, leading to what may be termed the ‘Confucian Absence Theory’. Matteo Ricci’s interpretations and propositions regarding the Chinese Trinity paved the way for the ‘Yi-Fo School’, the ‘Bu-Ru School’ and the Figurism, which emerged during the dissemination of the Trinity in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The ‘Yi-Fo School’ advocated replacing the Buddhist Trinity with the Catholic Trinity to complement the perceived absence in Confucianism, thus forming the ‘Bu-Ru School’. In contrast, Figurism advocated for use of Chinese characters and texts as clues to uncover the missing Trinity in Confucian classics. Regarding Matteo Ricci’s viewpoints and the above three paths, Buddhism of that era believed that Catholicism had plagiarised the Buddhist doctrine of the Trinity, and modern Chinese scholars also argued that the views of the Figurism were overly far-fetched. These paths placed the Trinitarian doctrines of Catholicism, Buddhism and Daoism in a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural comparative framework, underscoring the methodological significance of exchanges and mutual learning among civilisations. Contribution: This article examines the nexus between Matteo Ricci and the propagation of the Catholic doctrine of the Trinity in the Ming and Qing dynasties. It also investigates the evolution of three distinct pathway for this doctrinal propagation and assesses the Chinese Populace’s reactions, as well as the interplay of their discourses.

Mark 13 is famously known as the most challenging text in the entire Markan gospel. In Mark 13:7–8, the Markan Jesus foretells a tumultuous period marked by wars, rumours of wars, nations in conflict and natural hazards, aligning with common motifs in apocalyptic literature. The language vividly depicts a world in upheaval, emphasising cosmic and earthly disturbances as harbingers of climactic historical moments. The destruction of the temple, announced in Mark 13:2, is subject to both literal and symbolic interpretations, with some associating it with the historical event of the Second Temple’s destruction in 70 CE and others perceiving it as a symbol of the end of an age. Approaching Mark 13 without being triggered by violent connotations is unthinkable. Hence, responsible interpretation is pivotal in addressing such potentially violent connotations, particularly considering contemporary world conflicts. Sensitivity, without compromising the truth of the message of Mark 13, is crucial when considering the text’s impact on war-torn communities. This applies both to a reading that simulates the possible intention of the text within the context in which the Gospel, according to Mark, originated and to a historically informed use of such a reading considering contemporary conflicts. This study aims to employ a historiographical hermeneutic as an investigative tool to contribute a plausible understanding of the present text and avoid utilising this text as proof to promote violence and wars today. Especially, when one considers the recent catastrophes: natural hazards, civil unrest and wars across the world. Some are quick to utilise the Olivet discourse to explain such gruesome activities. Contribution: This study contextualizes Mark 13 within the 1st century CE, focusing on the Second Temple’s destruction in 70 CE. It promotes a sensitive interpretation, avoiding justifications for contemporary violence, and highlights the text’s relevance by drawing parallels between its turmoil and current global conflicts, encouraging ethical reflection.

Los autores estudian a partir del análisis narrativo Jn 9, un texto que ha sido poco tratado en su totalidad como historia narrada. El artículo está dividido en tres secciones. La primera, más extensa, se ocupa del estudio narrativo del texto. El estudio ofrece una visión amplia de la narrativa, una lectura sincrónica del texto tal como ha llegado hasta nosotros, una lectura que sugiere algunas ideas que pueden pasar desapercibidas para el lector que considera el texto basándose en métodos diacrónicos legítimos. La segunda sección complementa el estudio narrativo con una aproximación teológica de la historia, y la última sección es una lectura hermenéutica que muestra cómo grupos de reclusos relacionan el texto con su situación personal.

El problema que se aborda en este artículo, desde la teoría de Hartmut Rosa, es cómo la lógica relacional del sujeto tardomoderno de estabilización dinámica, que se caracteriza por un aumento constante a niveles económico, tecnológico y de innovación, ha llevado a que la relación con el mundo se busque en el dominio y apropiación para su utilización y control, lo que ha implicado una vida acelerada y alienada donde el sujeto, ante la imposibilidad de continuar en la “carrera por la vida”, se siente responsable, desencadenando una psicocrisis desde la culpa, el miedo y la angustia. En este sentido, la resonancia del perdón es la posibilidad de una existencia exculpada y, por tanto, sin miedo a la mirada del otro, ya que no se ve en ella una amenaza que incremente la culpa, sino un espacio que posibilita un mundo seguro y amable. El objetivo del artículo es ahondar en la teoría crítica de Hartmut Rosa, para plantear que la resonancia no solo es un concepto diagnóstico, sino que es un ejercicio terapéutico, concretamente, la resonancia del perdón como posibilitadora de un espacio de encuentro. Respecto a este eje conceptual, desde una metodología hermenéutico-crítica, se concluye que la resonancia del perdón se encuentra en el cristianismo como posibilidad de vinculación con el mundo. Por lo tanto, la principal conclusión apunta a proponer desde el perdón la posibilidad de reconstruir el tiempo y el espacio del encuentro, pues esto permite que el mundo (lo relacional) hable de nuevo.

The debate surrounding the nature and attributes of God as presented in the Bible has garnered significant attention and critique from various philosophical perspectives like Friedrich Nietzsche, Bertrand Russell and David Hume. This philosophical critique emphasises the inconsistency in the nature of God and challenges traditional theological beliefs. The expression of regret by the God of the Bible in Genesis 6:6 raises philosophical dilemmas regarding divine attributes and the problem of evil. The contradiction between God’s regret and the affirmation of his creation as good underscores fundamental questions about divine omniscience, omnipotence and benevolence. The presence of evil and suffering in the world poses a significant challenge to the notion of a loving and all-powerful God. Examples of human suffering, such as slavery, colonisation, apartheid and natural disasters, further highlight the complexity of reconciling divine attributes with the existence of evil. Philosophically analysing biblical narratives, such as the story of Job, Noah’s flood and the plagues of Egypt, raises ethical concerns regarding divine justice and the moral agency of humanity. Additionally, the indiscriminate punishment of innocent individuals in these narratives challenges the credibility of a benevolent and compassionate God. The philosophical inquiry into the problem of evil and natural disasters underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of divine attributes and their implications for human existence. Contribution: The study encourages reflection on key questions about the nature of divinity, the morality of divine actions, and the compatibility of traditional theology with rational thought. It highlights how inconsistencies in certain biblical accounts challenge those trying to balance faith with reason and scientific understanding. While some may view these narratives as metaphors or allegories, others find it difficult to align them with their intellectual beliefs, resulting in tensions between religious faith and scientific rationality.

This article explores the evolution of totemic symbolism in contemporary visual art and its profound link with religious concepts, particularly the image of God. It examines how artists reinterpret sacred themes through totems, reflecting both historical religious traditions and modern societal transformations. Through a review of totemic representations from ancient to contemporary artworks, this study illuminates the evolving portrayal of divine figures – from traditional religious icons to more personalised spiritual symbols. This evolution not only signifies changes in artistic expression but also suggests a deepening societal understanding of divinity. The analysis highlights the totem’s role as a mediator between the human and the divine, offering insights into the spiritual connections that transcend conventional religious frameworks. This research not only enriches the discourse on the relationship between art and religion but also underscores the dynamic interaction between cultural heritage and contemporary artistic exploration. Contribution: This study enriches the field of art history and religious studies by tracing the transformative representation of totems in art from ancient symbolism to modern reinterpretations. It underscores the totem’s role as a dynamic symbol in contemporary visual culture, facilitating deeper spiritual connections and dialogues across various cultural and religious landscapes. The findings of this study provide a nuanced understanding of how contemporary art mediates complex theological concepts, thus offering new perspectives on the intersection of art, religion and spirituality.

This article starts from the premise that the ordinary is the mystical. It does so by delving into the dynamic relationship between Spirituality and Public Theology against the backdrop of Christianity’s societal roles. It explores how Christian theology extends beyond private faith to address broad societal issues. Through a critical examination of Public Theology’s distinct contributions to contemporary discussions, the article emphasises the necessity of engaging Spirituality – with its focus on the divine-human relationship into this discourse. Contribution: This synthesis aims to enrich our comprehension of Christianity’s impact on public life, advocating for a faith that actively contributes to societal transformation across diverse contexts.

This paper aims to examine in detail the Christian interpretations on the Confucian concept of the nature of the heaven’s mandate [天命之性] during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties from historical and textual perspective. Neo-Confucians of the Song Dynasty interpret the nature of the heaven’s mandate as human nature, believing that heaven endowed humans with reason, known as the heavenly principle [天理]. In the late Ming period, Christian missionaries such as Jesuits in China used Confucian classics to convey Christian thoughts, interpreting the heaven’s mandate as God’s mandate and the nature of the heaven’s mandate as the spirituality bestowed by God, which is equated with the soul. They also used the nature of the heaven’s mandate as a criterion for determining the authenticity of a teaching (religion[教]), asserting that Christianity is the true teaching (religion). Thus, Christianity in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties provides a new interpretation on the nature of the heaven’s mandate and promotes the integration of Christian and Confucian thoughts through this interpretation. Contribution: The paper provides a detailed review of the history of Christian interpretations on the nature of the heaven’s mandate during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. Currently, there is limited scholarly research on the theological thoughts of Christianity during this period. This study not only enhances the understanding of the new interpretations by Christianity but also aids in comprehending the theological ideas of Christianity during the late Ming and early Qing periods. By reinterpreting Confucian classics, Christianity endowed them with new meanings, offering valuable references for the localisation of Christian theology and the study of cross-cultural exchange.

No abstract available.

The article examines how water features in different rituals in Leviticus and Numbers. It starts by providing an overview of how water is used in Leviticus and Numbers for cleansing and other rituals, focusing on cases where water is mixed with something else. Then, the article focuses on three pericopes from the Book of Numbers that describe concoctions of water mixed with other substances. These concoctions are given specific names in Numbers. Lastly, the article discusses diachronic arguments about these ritual texts. Contribution: The article shows the creativity that the authors of Numbers employed in reworking and innovating ritual texts from Leviticus.

This article argued the following points. Firstly, the challenge posed by artificial intelligence (AI) to the essence of humanity is serious. Secondly, it is important to analyse the external context and internal dynamics of the history of interaction between knowledge and power. Thirdly, it is necessary to trace the intellectual history of humanity becoming god-like. Finally, by combining Martin Luther’s anthropology with insights from social science and philosophical theology, this article advocated for guiding human beings to use their capabilities for good rather than evil through ethical and legal constraints. Efforts in Chinese context should be made to resolve the conflict between humanity’s pursuit of omnipotence and its failure to develop towards complete goodness, so as to avoid catastrophic consequences for humanity. Contribution: The present article’s special contribution was the theological reflection referring to AI’s challenges to the essence of humanity from Luther’s anthropology in Chinese context. The conflict between omnipotence and omnibenevolence has been highlighted as the key problem which human beings need to solve in the face of AI’s challenge.

This article examined the role of biblical interpretation amid the world’s water crisis. It aimed to make biblical texts accessible to non-specialist readers by using several methods of interpretation. The methods used were a combination of biblical interpretation, revisionist ecological hermeneutics and empirical research in the form of interviews with young adults in the Anglican Church in South Africa. This combination was applied to the role of water in Ezekiel 47. It showed that while traditional biblical interpretation is important for understanding the biblical context, revisionist ecological hermeneutics can help in understanding the ecological aspect of the text. This combination fitted the interview results, in which interviewees shared how learning about ecological aspects helped to make the Bible more relevant in today’s ecological crisis. A deeper biblical understanding, a combination of traditional interpretation and ecological hermeneutics, could lead to more awareness and responsibility among Christians to care for creation. This form of hermeneutics could be applied to other Bible texts to grow awareness. Contribution: Interviewees argued that there is a lack of awareness in their environments about the causes and consequences of the ecological crisis. One of the main consequences of this crisis is related to water, with floods and droughts already becoming more severe. While this is often overlooked, the Bible could be of use in the water crisis in today’s world. This article has made a beginning in showing how biblical interpretation can effectively create climate awareness among churchgoers by speaking to their spirituality.

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the far-reaching significance of religion in shaping human interaction within social crises. Efforts to slow down the spread of coronavirus prompted different national governments, including the Federal Government of Nigeria to restrict large density gatherings, enforce lockdowns and promote social distancing, which were largely resisted initially. Organised religion may have influenced citizens’ compliance with government directives for curbing the pandemic. Focussing largely on providing economic assistance to people in need, it may have missed out on the reason for recourse to faith. One outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic was the need to understand the application of religious faith in explaining epidemics and health crises. This work predominantly relies on data from secondary sources (library research and internet materials). Just as it critically investigates Christian-Muslim responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, it seeks also to justify reliance on religion during a health emergency. By the evaluative method of philosophy, we show that although the pandemic triggered dread of annihilation, it brought in its wake a search for ontological meaningfulness. This study therefore argues that Nigerians turned to religion to meet the deep-seated, individual need for meaningfulness (‘survivability’) that is primary to the need of soul and body, which includes material donations by organised religious entities. The primacy of fulfilling this need precedes sociality both ontologically and epistemologically because meaningfulness is an inalienable property of individuality. Contribution: This work presents religion as a rationally defensible need that is fundamentally rooted in individual human nature, even in a pandemic; religion pertains to meaningfulness, which counters human fear of annihilation and meaninglessness.

The Bible presents God journeying with the weak and the poor. God’s involvement in the affairs of the less privileged was because of God’s nature of being just, compassionate, eternal, omnipresent and unchangeable. These attributes gave the weak hope as God intervened in their circumstances. Although in perpetual suffering, one would expect God’s nature to remain unchanging, unfortunately, the oppressed people grapple with the Doctrine of God in the context of different sociopolitical and economic traumas. For example, Zimbabwe suffered a sociopolitical ordeal for more than two decades resulting in the weak and the oppressed questioning God’s divine justice, the just and the omnipotence of God. To invite God to be on the side of the oppressed, the leader of the opposition party, Nelson Chamisa coined a mantra titled #Godisinit to involve Godself in the Zimbabwean sociopolitical crisis. The hashtag became a slogan and a campaigning strategy inviting God to arbitrate on the side of the weak. Moreover, the hashtag represents the decoloniality of theology where the elite apply it to empower the weak of the society suffering different forms of socioeconomic challenges. In addition, the hashtag remained the hope of the people as they believed that God would intervene in the Zimbabwean sociopolitical and economic crisis. This literature research used secondary sources and the Internet to explore how Nelson Chamisa used #Godisinit to invoke the Doctrine of God in the Zimbabwean sociopolitical environment. Contribution: The contribution of this study lies in its clarification of the role of hashtags, its analysis of how Nelson Chamisa utilised #Godisinit to engage the Doctrine of God within Zimbabwe’s sociopolitical sphere, and its demonstration of how the infinite nature of God is intertwined with the struggles of the weak and oppressed.

This article examines the name of ‘Jesus’ theologically through the hermeneutic methodology of the speech act theory. We can say that to believe in Jesus is to believe in the name of Jesus. However, even though the name of Jesus represents Jesus, theological research following the name of Jesus has not been actively conducted. If Jesus is the Son of God and the Saviour, there must be a theological and hermeneutical discussion about what theological implications are in the name of Jesus, which implies all of this and how this name of Jesus affects our lives. Therefore, this article judges that theological consideration of the name of Jesus is necessary and tries to examine the name of Jesus through the hermeneutical methodology of the speech act theory. Contribution: The performative nature of the name of Jesus signifies the presence of Jesus. By having faith in the name of Jesus, believers put the saving meaning of his name into action, and the power of Jesus becomes a reality in their lives.

In Søren Kierkegaard’s works, the relationship between the immutability of God and the concepts of time and motion emerges as a central theme. This paper examines how Kierkegaard reconciles the idea of an immutable God with the dynamic process of ‘coming into existence’. Through an exploration of Kierkegaard’s philosophical roots, this study elucidates his understanding of motion and change, delves into his ontological and metaphysical notions of time, and particularly focusses on the ‘moment’ as a synthesis that bridges the eternal God with the individual’s dynamical existence. Kierkegaard’s theory of divine immutability represents a genuine departure from traditional metaphysical thought; comparing his ideas with those of other philosophers would highlight the uniqueness of Kierkegaard’s approach. Contribution: This article aims to analyse the philosophical foundation of God’s immutability through a detailed interpretation of Kierkegaard’s writings, providing a new approach to understanding the movement and immutability of God.

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate that patristic theology has resolved the problem of God’s immutability, which is affirmed paradoxically Holy Scripture. This resolution has been achieved through clarifying of the distinction between God’s essence and his uncreated energies. The Eastern Fathers successfully synthesized key theological concepts: the changelessness of God and his dynamic activity in relation to creation. This synthesis is most profoundly articulated in the Palamite doctrine of the uncreated energies. These energies, while emanating from the changeless essence of God, are nevertheless subject to change. According to this teaching, God is a Trinity of Persons who exists on two primary planes: within himself and in his self-revelation, both in the realms of Theologia and Economia. He is unchangeable in essence, yet changeable, alive, active, and ever-new in his providential action of saving the world through his energies. Because he is transcendent, he can be immanent, instilling in the souls who love him a deeper thirst to know and experience him more profoundly. Contribution: The dogmatic formulas in Eastern Christianity are apophatic, antinomic and paradoxical because they encompass essentially contradictory aspects of a living and inexhaustibly rich reality. Thus, by their very nature, dogmas express everything: the infinite and the finite united – without losing their own being in all their dimensions.

The Confession of Belhar was accepted as official confession of the Dutch Reformed Mission Church by its General Synod on 26 September 1986. During the apartheid regime in South Africa, it confesses its belief in God who serves the poor and the downtrodden, and defines the church as taking a stance against injustice. This article explores the values expressed in the Confession of Belhar to be applied in pastoral care and counselling context. The study aimed to determine whether the values of the Confession of Belhar can transcend the boundaries of ‘church’ and how pastoral care supports people towards healing and healthy religious discourses. The research population are people who: firstly, visited a state hospital in a previously black township for primary care and referred to the author for counselling; and secondly, those who received counselling and pastoral care in black and brown townships where the author has been a tent-maker minister of the Word in the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa. Upon analysis, five harmful religious discourses that prevent healing were identified: (1) God is punishing me; (2) Is Christ really stronger than evil forces? (3) I am alone and afraid; (4) I have no access to spiritual gifts or any opportunities; and (5) no reconciliation or peace is possible in my situation. Contribution: This article describes the Belhar Confession in surpassing its aim of unity, reconciliation and justice in that it supports pastoral counselling by assisting people to deconstruct harmful religious discourses of pain and helplessness to alternative discourses of health and healing.

Indonesia, as a country with rich diversity, faces a significant challenge in the form of polarisation, which occurs not only in the political sphere but also in religion and belief. In the context of Christian theological education in Indonesia, polarisation also occurs between conservative and liberal views. Conservatives adhere to literal interpretations and established doctrines, while liberals are more flexible and open to contextual interpretations. To address this polarisation, an approach that transcends both extremes is needed. This article proposes post-conservative thought as a conceptual solution for theological education in Indonesia. Postconservatism positions itself in the middle between conservative and liberal, recognising the importance of fundamental principles of faith while also being open to change and dialogue. This article employs a literature review method to analyse and develop a theoretical framework supporting the application of post-conservatism in Christian theological education in Indonesia. The analysis shows that postconservative theological education needs to be transformative, constructive-creative and liberating to break down polarisation and create inclusive, relevant and impactful education for society. Contribution: This study helps in integrating postconservative theology within theological education, fostering a more nuanced and transformative approach to interpreting Scriptures and addressing ethical and social issues. Interdisciplinary implications involve collaboration with social sciences, education, peace studies and health sciences to develop comprehensive strategies for community engagement, conflict resolution and holistic well-being.

Unlike Hannah, who eventually had a child, there are women today who remain childless. In the modern world, there are various reasons why women choose not to have children. Therefore, when interpreting the Hannah narrative in modern times, it is important to consider these evolving aspects of barrenness. This article applies historical-critical exegesis, narrative reading and a descriptive approach to examine Hannah’s experience in the Nigerian context. It also evaluates African traditional beliefs on childlessness in light of modern realities. The study reveals that many women in pronatalist societies worldwide now choose to be child-free because of reasons such as difficulty finding marriage partners or financial instability. As these factors are also present in Nigeria, childless Nigerian women should embrace their situation and find happiness instead of succumbing to stigmatisation. To support these Christian women, the church in Nigeria must accept and teach the truth that not every woman needs to bear children. Contribution: This article contributes to the discussion on Christian attitudes towards childlessness. It argues that the interpretation of Hannah’s infertility in today’s world should consider new circumstances, such as voluntary childlessness. In light of this argument, Nigerian women without children should embrace their situation and find happiness instead of succumbing to societal stigma.

This article attempts to introduce the emerging research method of E-textual research into the study of Chinese Buddhism. By outlining the origin and significance of E-textual research, it explores the potential of this endeavour. The application of E-textual research in the field of Buddhism is discussed to clarify its scope and operational procedures. The article also addresses the limitations of E-textual research, stemming from its inherent constraints and the impact of other emerging technologies. E-textual research is not merely a passing trend but offers further avenues for exploration, representing a novel approach for Buddhist studies to engage with new materials and questions in the digital age. Contribution: This article introduces the emerging research method of E-textual research into the study of Chinese Buddhism, outlining its background, operational procedures, existing limitations and future prospects. E-textual research is presented as a new method for addressing new materials and questions in the digital age.

Gender equality continues to be a topic of ongoing public concern, with various alternatives proposed to achieve the ideal gender equality. Despite the utilisation of various references, the desired outcomes have yet to be realised. Local traditions in Minahasa and Christian religious education (CRE) in Indonesia offer constructive alternatives for gender equality efforts. While the political, religious and social spheres have not strongly supported gender equality, Minahasan culture and philosophy have long advocated for gender equality. Using a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis, this study draws references from various books and articles to construct the idea of gender equality from the local context of Minahasa. In conclusion, the historical origins of Minahasa, traditions of leadership such as tonaas and walian, as well as the philosophy of equality in life and CRE, contribute to the values of gender equality. Contribution: This research presents the idea of gender equality drawn from the local values of Minahasa and CRE in Indonesia. Thus, the cultural-educational perspective can significantly impact social life and help combat gender discrimination.

A passagem bíblica de Lucas 16, 19-31 é uma das mais citadas e discutidas do Novo Testamento. No entanto, quando analisada a partir das relações engendradas na sequência dos fatos narrados, uma série de programas narrativos pressupostos contribui para a elucidação do sentido desse texto. Esta pesquisa, portanto, analisará a referida passagem a partir da perspectiva da semiótica greimasiana. O método pretende desvelar o percurso gerativo de sentido e destacar os elementos intratextuais, que perfazem o trajeto de construção da significação da passagem. Ele permite analisar suas estruturas superficiais e profundas: vai do simples ao complexo, do mais abstrato ao mais concreto. Pode assim evidenciar as oposições semânticas a partir das quais se constitui o sentido do texto e a sua categoria semântica fundamental. O método tem potencial para representar a organização relacional entre as condições sociais dos sujeitos da narrativa. Além disso, fornece um suporte metodológico neutro que evita conclusões antecipadas e tendenciosidades. A análise da intertextualidade completa o processo iniciado com a Semiótica greimasiana. Isso porque uma leitura atenta de Lc16,19-31 não ignorará seu contexto imediato e mais amplo: Lucas e Atos lidos sequencialmente. Situando a parábola nessa narrativa mais ampla, os leitores de Lucas poderiam perceber elementos conectivos, ligando a história contada por Jesus ao que estava acontecendo na igreja primitiva. Assim, na boca de Jesus a história do rico e do mendigo foi contada como uma crítica à avareza, mas, no plano redacional de Lucas foi usada para desafiar os crentes a se envolverem com o cuidado dos pobres.

El presente artículo se planeta como objetivo examinar la relación conceptual entre la sinodalidad, la democracia constitucional y los procesos de democratización dentro de la Iglesia católica. Para ello, comienza ofreciendo una definición preliminar de lo que significan tanto el sínodo como la sinodalidad, entendidos como una exigencia que brota de la historia de la Iglesia y, especialmente, del Concilio Vaticano II. Seguidamente, presenta el lugar que ocupa la Iglesia católica dentro de la democracia constitucional de derecho, en tanto que es parte de la sociedad civil trasnacional y global. Para mayor precisión conceptual, la Iglesia será entendida en términos de comunidad que abraza una “doctrina comprehensiva razonable” que es el cristianismo. En este sentido, se examinará la forma en la que la Iglesia ha ido ajustando su doctrina, a fin de hacerla compatible con las exigencias de la democracia constitucional de derecho. Además, la Iglesia será entendida como una “forma de vida”, entendida en términos de “instancia de resolución de problemas” y como el terreno de relaciones personales que aspira a la reciprocidad “positiva” o “equilibrada”. Comprender a la Iglesia en términos de “forma de vida” permitirá examinar los procesos de democratización que se dan y se pueden potenciar en el seno de esta y la manera en la que el sínodo y la sinodalidad abonan ese camino. De esta manera, la sinodalidad se entiende como un proceso en el cual se van debilitando las relaciones de dominación y se abre espacio al respeto de la dignidad de las personas.

Integrating appreciative inquiry (AI) and pastoral care may help address the complex issues of commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. This article explores the benefits of incorporating AI principles into pastoral care for survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. Commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking involve exploitation, degradation, and violence, making them complex issues. By understanding the sex trade, we can recognise that prostitution is an act of exploitation. Some scholars believe that prostitution and human trafficking are interconnected, with a focus on exploiting the poor, especially women and children. Commercial sexual exploitation can cause mental, emotional, and spiritual distress. Survivors require comprehensive aftercare to address their spiritual, self-esteem, and dignity needs. Organisational development-based AI is constructive and strength-based. Appreciative inquiry promotes positive development, community and individual strength, and resilience by re-contextualizing narratives and envisioning brighter futures. The use of AI could improve pastoral care and holistic rehabilitation. Pastoral caregivers using AI can promote reconciliation, development, and rehabilitation. Using strengths-based strategies, pastoral care practitioners can help survivors regain agency and purpose. Survivors receive spiritual support through the Appreciative Way, which combines contemplative spirituality and inquiry. Narrative exploration can help trauma survivors envision a bright future based on love and resilience. This study suggests that AI principles may benefit pastoral care recipients who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. Pastoral caregivers can help survivors regain dignity, calling, and well-being by implementing an appreciative healing approach. Contribution: The article sheds light on the dehumanising consequences of sex trafficking on vulnerable populations in South Africa, particularly women and children. This article aims to explain how AI concepts can be applied to Practical Theology. Specifically, this article will demonstrate how the Appreciative Way can be utilised in pastoral care for healing from sex trafficking trauma.

Reason: The article ‘The influence of Internet economy on consumer psychology in the post-epidemic era’ by Junjing Zhao and Qi Li has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

Reason: The article ‘Innovation in ideological and political education in higher education institutions for student development’ by Xiaohui Lin and Caiying Zhong has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

Reason: The article ‘The influence of Chinese ancient poetry and literature on college students’ mental anxiety’ by Jie Chen has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

The article investigates the performative nature of asides that aim to define or specify something in the Fourth Gospel. Despite scholars exploring the prevalence and significance of asides in this Gospel, there has been limited attention given to studying or demonstrating the pragmatic and/or performative nature of these literary devices. The assertion is that asides are not mere literary embellishments, but carry a substantial performative role for the reader. This article seeks to address this gap in the study of Johannine asides. Employing a speech act interpretive approach, the article examines the nature and potential effects (i.e., the illocutionary and perlocutionary force) of these specific asides on the reader in the Fourth Gospel. While there is a general consensus that asides are not events and therefore do not advance the plot of the story, this contribution contends that asides play a crucial role in guiding the reader towards embracing or acting on the implied author’s propositions as they engage with the narrative. The Fourth Gospel serves as an apt text to illustrate this literary phenomenon and is believed to be consistent with the Gospel’s purpose as stated in 20:31. Contribution: The article contributes to Johannine literary research by exploring and demonstrating how the implied author of the Fourth Gospel intentionally utilises various types of asides (in this case, asides that function to define or specify something) to invite the reader’s participation as they read the Gospel.

This article investigates the congregation members to the transition from face-to-face worship and fellowship to digital spaces amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with a sample of the Huria Kristen Batak Protestan (HKBP – Batak Protestant Christian Church), specifically in District Daerah Khusus Ibukota (DKI) Jakarta province, Indonesia. This study uses an empirical questionnaire method to assess the level of satisfaction, engagement and future preferences of the congregation regarding digital versus face-to-face worship practices. The questionnaire was built on current theories of encounter and fellowship and what the congregation members need in digital worship services. Data from 421 congregations with a 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error showed a dominant 62.7% preference for returning to face-to-face worship services and a participation decline during the pandemic. Respondents also felt a 60%–90% difference in digital services from church services, especially related to the need for communal fellowship. Participation in digital services correlates with higher education levels, while older congregations preferred face-to-face worship. Contribution: This study highlights the importance of incorporating Batak cultural values into digital ministry strategies to increase community connectivity and engagement. This article suggests further research on integrating cultural elements into digital religious practices, aiming to provide insights for churches navigating the digital transformation of religious services.

Reason: The article ‘The aesthetics of Gannan Hakka architecture in modern housing: A design psychology perspective’ by Xiang Lei, Hao Cao and Limin Guo has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

Reason: The article ‘The influence of cultural identity education on students’ positive psychology’ by Meili He has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

Reason: The article ‘Research on psychological satisfaction of education work and learning of literary works’ by Yuanyuan Wang has been retracted by AOSIS, as publisher, following an investigation undertaken by the publisher. This investigation has uncovered evidence of systematic manipulation of the publication and peer-review process. We cannot, therefore, vouch for the reliability or integrity of this article. Please note that this notice is intended solely to alert readers that the peer-review process of this article has been compromised. AOSIS regret that the usual quality checks did not identify these issues before publication and has since put additional measures in place to safeguard research integrity. The corresponding author, as the representative of all authors, has been given the opportunity to register their agreement or disagreement with this retraction. We have kept a record of any response received.

This article examines the phrase, tosoutō kreittōn genomenos tōn angelōn (Heb 1:4a) (having become as much superior to the angels) in the exordium of the epistle to the Hebrews in the light of Ewe angelology. The article employs both comparative and mother tongue hermeneutical approaches as its methodologies. An exegetical analysis of the cosmic superiority of Christ over angels in Hebrews 1:4a was carried out to situate the text in its historical and literary contexts. This was followed by an excursus on angels to explore the angelic world of the text, and a comparative discussion with angelology motif in Ewe cosmology. Finally, the article assesses the cosmic supremacy of Christ over the angelic world of the Ewe against the backdrop of the continuous quest for spiritual protection in Ewe-Ghanaian spirituality today. The quest for spiritual protection in popular Ewe-Ghanaian Christianity today stems from the perception that Christ’s cosmic superiority over the cosmos he created and owns including angelic beings alone is not enough and that one would need to resort to other mediums to enhance access to God for quicker solutions to one’s predicaments. This has resulted in the introduction of syncretic elements in spirituality. To cure the syncretic elements in Ewe Christian spirituality, this article makes the following proposals: Firstly, the preaching (kerygma) and teaching (didache) of the gospel message must be given priority in the pulpit. Secondly, Christian educators must constantly emphasise Christ’s superiority and his exclusive mediatory function over Ewe cosmic beings to ensure that old and new converts to Christianity view him alone as sufficient for their spiritual development. Contribution: The article contributes to the academic knowledge of the priestly Christology in Hebrews situating it within the context of mother tongue biblical hermeneutics.

Neo-Confucianism’s understanding of the relationship between heaven and man greatly reflects their view of nature and their aesthetic pursuits. Confucianism revolves around the perfection of human virtue, and the profundity of its theory of the relationship between heaven and humanity lies in the recognition of the value of all natural things. Therefore, the Confucian view of nature and humans emphasises the Unity of Heaven and Man by virtue. The concept of ‘the Unity of Heaven and Man by virtue’ unfolds the characteristic of symbiosis between humans and all things, which is manifested by the natural view of oneness of all things. The virtue of Sheng reflects the natural aesthetic consciousness of Confucianism. In Confucianism, virtue and beauty are unified, and this characteristic is mainly manifested as the beauty of ShengSheng. Sheng is not only a kind of great virtue but also a kind of great beauty, and the idea of the beauty of ShengSheng embodies the Confucian pursuit of the beauty of natural life. Contribution: This article mainly examines the relationship between humans and heaven in Neo-Confucianism. In particular, it focusses on the thought of ‘the Unity of Heaven and Man’, and analyses the natural aesthetic influence of this thought.