| Nimeke: | Holistic Spirituality in the Thinking of Ellen White |
| Tekijä: | Kuhalampi, Harri |
| Muu tekijä: | Helsingin yliopisto, teologinen tiedekunta Helsingfors universitet, teologiska fakulteten University of Helsinki, Faculty of Theology, Practical theology |
| Päiväys: | 2010-10-15 |
| Taso: | Väitöskirja (monografia) |
| Tiivistelmä: | Spirituality refers to a profound human dimension and quality which it is challenging to exactly define, if not impossible. It is represented on the one hand by a spirituality realised through means of religion, focused on seeking the purpose and ultimate being of life, but also by all other culture of the spirit in quest of a meaningful existence. According to John Swinton, the realm of the spirit is that characteristically human, dynamic life-force which vitalises and invigorates a person and motivates him/her to seek God, values, meaning, purpose and hope.
This dissertation makes holistic spirituality the object of its study, drawing attention to the connections by which the realm of the spirit is joined to other fundamental activities and dimensions of human life. These include 1) thinking 2) deeds and practical action 3) relationships and interactive networks 4) feelings and attitudes influencing behaviour 5) the dimensions of existence and being. It is in the realm of the spirit, in other words inwardly, as spiritual issues, that the meaning, value and significance of experiences are perceived. The primary sources of this study comprise six books from 1892 1905, products of the later years of Ellen White, an American who lived 1827 1915, and systematic analysis is employed as the method of study. A practical, down-to-earth touch is essential to Whites way of discussing religious praxis. This study shows that the views of Martin Luther have had a significant influence on Whites thinking. The sources reveal a similarity between her views and the lines of thought in his literary production highlighted by some of the most recent Finnish studies of Luther. Although White and Luther represent different levels of theological learning, both have a similar view of the essence of the relation between God and humankind: Gods love and activity flowing from his grace lie at its basis. Secondly, the existential connection, union between a person and Christ is the foundation for Gods acceptance of and care for him/her now and forever. Thirdly, this alliance and joining of Christ and the person is manifested as cooperation and companionship aimed at realising common goals in the world. White emphasises the interactive and active nature of the spiritual relationship between the person and Christ, which is expressed in unselfishness, consideration for other people and their needs, and in compassion and an ability to place oneself in the position of another. White connects her thoughts on a healthful lifestyle and education to a broad understanding of spirituality which aims for the persons holistic welfare. She does not see spirituality as insular, cut off from the day-to-day business of life, but rather as the primary dimension which energises, gives purpose and guides a person in all aspects of life. During the course of the study the concepts surrender to God and character, frequently used by White, became a focus of attention. According to White, a person cannot reach God alone, by an effort of the will; instead, when faced with Gods loving invitation, one must cease to will for oneself and agree to unite with Gods will and purpose. This is connected to the internal change which White describes by the concept of character. The new orientation of the will, accomplished by Gods grace, changes the persons being, values, attitudes and ability for sympathetic interaction to such an extent that the person is no longer quite the same as before. There is, on the one hand, a sudden and total change of being, but at the same time a quiet, life-long growth and development are intended. It is through the concept of character that White describes spirituality and the inner journey it entails. This study approaches spirituality as a universal human characteristic and quality, which means that the primary focus is not on individual doctrinal views or forms of religious practice. The purpose here is to outline a unifying structure within which holistic spirituality can be more clearly perceived and be understood in more detail. |
| Avainsanat: | teologia |
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