An attempt at a theological assessment of classical models of the rationalization of suffering and evil Cover Image

Klasyczne modele racjonalizacji cierpienia i zła
An attempt at a theological assessment of classical models of the rationalization of suffering and evil

Author(s): Krystian Kałuża
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion, Comparative Studies of Religion
Published by: Uniwersytet Opolski
Keywords: evil; suffering of clergy and people; rationalization of evil and suffering; theodicy; freedom;

Summary/Abstract: The article is aimed at trying to assess the classical models of rationalization of suffering and evil from a theological point of view. The models include: harmonization and aestheticization, ontological dispotentiation, moralization, and pedagogization of evil. The author concludes that none of those models gives a sufficient answer to the painful question: Why does God allow suffering? Nevertheless, each of the above mentioned models includes elements that can be successfully used in contemporary theodical discourse. The existence of evil is not sufficient evidence for the non-existence of God. The way non-believers perceive evil is already determined by their lack of faith. And conversely, believers perceive evil in the light of faith. For Christians the last word of God in the face of evil is Jesus Christ.

  • Issue Year: 36/2016
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 57-88
  • Page Count: 32
  • Language: Polish