Original scientific paper
HOPE IN THE GLOBALISED WORLD IN THE PROSPECTIVE OF BIBLICAL MOTIVES OF BABEL AND BABYLON
Božidar Mrakovčić
; Theology of Rijeka, Dislocated Studies of Catholic Faculty of Theology, University of Zagreb, Rijeka, Croatia
Abstract
Even the most objective critics of the globalisation perceive it as threatening rather than hope inspiring reality: this is the starting point of the article. In a search of a biblical situation clarifying the issue of hope in the globalized world, we focused on the motive of Babel in Gen 11, 1-9 and Babylon in the Book of Revelation. In an analysis of Babel, we noticed that the sin of Babel is akin to the dark side of the globalisation. The constructors of Babel use the technology to escape from the proper creature-ship, meanwhile the human dignity suffers; instead of inhabiting the earth they are closing themselves inside the walls, in own self-sufficiency; they arrogantly want to achieve the proper identity whose goal is to be independent from God, and even more: an equality with God. Unanimity and singlemindedness makes them capable of every evil, so God is stopping them. Abraham, on the contrary, will go out of the city and become a blessing for every people. Pentecost will confirm that Babel will not have the last word: Pentecost will renew the mutual understanding of people, establishing the unity which affirms the diversity. Babylon in the Revelation, just as Babel in Gen 11, 1-9, represents a futureless reality, hostile to God. Babylon is Rome, seducing like an Adulteress and exploiting others with her godless life. Christians are invited to go out from Babylon and to enter the new Jerusalem, the eschatological reality already present where people do not accept the appeal and violence of Babylon, but make God the centre of their lives. Although similar to Babel and Babylon, globalisation can become similar to the new Jerusalem, if we are ready to leave Babylon and ready to live the virtues of the New Jerusalem.
Keywords
Babel; Babylon; globalisation; Abraham; Pentecost; Revelation; New Jerusalem
Hrčak ID:
74831
URI
Publication date:
10.8.2008.
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