In recent years, resilience has become a near ubiquitous cultural phenomenon whose influence extends into many fields of academic enquiry. Though research suggests that religion and spirituality are significant factors in engendering resilient adaptation, comparatively little biblical and theological reflection has gone into understanding this construct. This book seeks to remedy this deficiency through a breadth of reflection upon human resilience from canonical biblical and Christian theological sources.

Divided into three parts, biblical scholars and theologians provide critical accounts of these perspectives, integrating biblical and theological insight with current social scientific understandings of resilience. Part 1 presents a range of biblical visions of resilience. Part 2 considers a variety of theological perspectives on resilience, drawing from figures including Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Part 3 explores the clinical and pastoral applications of such expressions of resilience.

This diverse yet cohesive book sets out a new and challenging perspective of how human resilience might be re-envisioned from a Christian perspective. As a result, it will be of interest to scholars of practical and pastoral theology, biblical studies, and religion, spirituality and health. It will also be a valuable resource for chaplains, pastors, and clinicians with an interest in religion and spirituality.

About the Author

Christopher C. H. Cook is Professor of Spirituality, Theology & Health in the Department of Theology & Religion at Durham University, an Honorary Minor Canon at Durham Cathedral, and an Honorary Chaplain with Tees, Esk & Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV).

Nathan H. White is Director of the Institute for Faith and Resilience and a chaplain for the US Army.

Reviews

"What does theology have to do with resilience? In this collection of essays, White and Cook have brought together an insightful and thought provoking collection of responses from within the Christian tradition. The answers that emerge challenge some assumptions within the social sciences and have wide relevance for pastoral and clinical practice. This is a very welcome and needed addition to the burgeoning field of resilience studies."

Harold G. Koenig, Director, Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health, Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, USA

"How best to cope with life's difficulties - how to be resilient - is a question of perennial importance, which is perhaps particularly pressing today. These wide-ranging essays open up fresh and life-giving perspectives on the issue."

Walter Moberly, Professor of Theology and Biblical Interpretation, Department of Theology and Religion, Durham University, UK

Book Information
ISBN 9781032082509
Author Christopher C. H. Cook
Format Paperback
Page Count 260
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 381g