Paul and Death ─ A question of psychological coping

The concept of death, particularly violent death, is prevalent throughout the writings of Paul the Apostle. His letters in the New Testament address this topic from a variety of perspectives, some of which can appear to be almost contradictory. However, this need not be problematic. Paul and Death uses the method of psychological exegesis to show that the differing attitudes toward death in Paul’s letters make for a much more coherent discourse if they are seen as an aid to individual and collective psychological coping.

Taking the differences between each of Paul’s letters as its starting point, this study suggests that a variety of coping strategies in relation to death may be beneficial depending on the situation, the person, and the stage of the coping process. Drawing on psychologically-oriented hermeneutic theory, and theories about psychological coping in particular, it argues that each case of psychological coping must be understood in its historical situation, and as strategies emanating from a specific person’s subjective appraisal.

Combining theology and biblical studies with modern psychology, this book will be of particular interest to academics and students that are studying the relationship between Religion and notions of Death.

Linda Joelsson defended her thesis in New Testament Exegesis at Abo Akademi University in April 2015, with a specialization in Paul and psychological perspectives. She holds a position as pastor and overseer at Mikaelikyrkan, Skarholmen, in Stockholm. She has previously worked in psychiatric health care and with support for refugees in Botkyrka and in Varmdo. Linda Joelsson has contributed frequently to scholarly meetings and in various educational settings, and has a special interest in crossdisciplinary studies and health research.