Does the Bible Justify Violence?

By John J. Collins

Renowned biblical scholar John J. Collins asks tough questions about the relationship between the portrayals of violence in the Bible and how they have been used throughout history. The Crusaders, Puritans, and abolitionists all used the Bible to justify their use of violence - and this process continues. In light of today's religious and political rhetoric, how shall we interpret these ancient documents? How can we understand the biblical stories, prophecies, and songs in their historical contexts and avoid making self-serving and even violent use of them?

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0800636899
• ISBN13: 9780800636890
• Release Date: August 2004
• Publisher: Fortress Press
• Length: 64 Pages
• Weight: 0.17 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 4.4" x 7.1"

Customer Reviews

Short, but a good overview

Timely in its discussion of the relationship of religion and violence, Collins seeks understanding of the September 11th attacks. As mentioned above, Facets are "brief, brilliant treatments of vital aspects of faith and life." This book is a positive example: a little over 30 pages of work on the violence of the Bible and behavior it endorses. This work, however its length, gives a great overview on the subject and is remarkably researched for its length. Collins attempts to discuss the violence of the Bible and see how that influences Christian attitudes towards violence. He concludes that any responsible reading of the Bible must admit and struggle with violent passages, and also, the more certain you are of the Truth the more violent your reaction to those who disagree. I think this small book would be very beneficial for a small group discussion or an adult Bible study on the matter.