bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Die makrososiale ruimte van die Boek van die Wagte (1 Henog 1-36)
Authors: Venter P.M.
Published: August 2012

The macro social space of the Book of the Watchers (1 Enoch 1-36)An analysis of the material of the Book of the Watchers ( 1 Enoch 1-36) indicates a preference for the spatial aspect in these revelation narratives. In an attempt to understand this preference, an investigation is launched into the macro social world of the narratives. Themes in Enoch from literature in the Bible, the Syro-Phoenician world, Pseudo Epolemus, Zenon Papyri, Persia and Greece, are identified. Ptolemean Palestine is also investigated as the context within which an Enochic tradition was formed. Amongst other traditions an opposing Mosaic Judaism and Enochic Judaism are identified. Both take up the challenges of the third century with its Hellenistic onslaught and explosion of knowledge. The Book of the Watchers represents an Enoch tradition, which forms an early trajectory of apocalyptic thinking, and which is being influenced by various traditions such as wisdom literature in its mantic form, cosmological schemes of the world, and mythic traditions.
Die uitdrukking “seun van die mens” in die Jesus-tradisie: ’n Ontwikkeling vanaf ’n landbou-omgewing na die wêreld van skrifgeleerdes
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The expression “son of man” in the Jesus tradition: A develop-ment from agrarian culture to a scribal contextThe aim of the article is to show that Jesus used the expression “son of man” generically, meaning “humankind”. This generic use developed into a “titular” usage in which his followers identified Jesus with the apocalyptic son of man. It is argued that Jesus’ use of the expression “son of man” should be understood in the context of his subversive wisdom and the “little tradition” of peasants. His followers reinterpreted this usage in terms of the “great tradition” of scribes. This development is demonstrated by means of a Jesus wisdom saying about a comparison between the fate of beasts and the son of man who has nowhere to lay his head (Q 9:58).
Die (reën)boog na die sondvloed (Gen 9:12-17)
Authors: Stander H.F.
Published: August 2012

The (Rain)bow after the deluge (Gen 9:12-17)The Hebrew word which is used for “rainbow” in Genesis 9:13,16 can also be translated as an archer’s “bow”. It is interesting to note that all the ancient writers used the latter meaning (“war bow”) in their interpretation of the Noah account, and not the meaning of “rainbow”. The ancients often depicted God as a warrior God who had a bow and shot arrows at those whom He wanted to punish. After God had punished the people for their sins, he hung up his bow. The bow in the clouds is without a bow string, and this is to remind the people that God is now at peace with them. In this article the prevalence of this interpretation in the ancient world, is shown. The writings of the Church Fathers are also scrutinized for their remarks on the (rain)bow. To conclude, the translation of this symbol in various Bible translations is also discussed.
The (poetic) rhetoric of wisdom in Proverbs 3:1-12
Authors: Potgieter J.H.
Published: August 2012

Proverbs 3:1-12 is a masterful example of Hebrew poetry. Failure to consider its poetic structure, is likely to result in incomplete and even incorrect interpretation. Many recent commentaries on Proverbs recognize the poetic character of the book, and even include a section on the poetic techniques present in the book, but ignore the relevance of these techniques as far as the interpretation of the individual poems and the book in general are concerned. This article argues that a comprehensive analysis of poetic features enhances the exegete’s ability to appreciate the rhetoric of wisdom. An intratextual approach towards Proverbs 3:1-12 provides a framework for the complete interpretation of the text.
Kerkvorming en -ontwikkeling in die Nuwe-Testamentiese tydvak
Authors: Pelser G.M.M.
Published: August 2012

The origin and development of the church in the New Testament eraThis study considers the question as to how the church originated, in view of the fact that it was not founded or intended by Jesus, and examines how it developed during the course of time covered by the writings of the New Testament. It concludes firstly that the church did not originate as a single entity, but as different believing communities following the death of Jesus, secondly that the delay of the parousia resulted in the institutionalizing of the church and consequently, in the loss of what can be regarded as some of the basic and most important characteristics of the church, especially as far as Paul’s understanding is concerned. The study concludes with a list of what could be regarded as common features of the church as portrayed by most of the documents of the New Testament.
Die Daniëlboek se twee Sitze im Leben
Authors: Nel M. , Human D.J.
Published: August 2012

The two contexts of the book of DanielDie Book of Daniel presupposes an exilic date of origin in the sixth century. The real context in which the book originated is the second century BC, during the persecution by Antiochus IV Epiphanes of Jewish fanatics opposing his hellenization policy. In order to fully understand the book, it is necessary to take into account the historical detail of both contexts.
Tenach and Old Testament – the same Bible?
Authors: Loader James A.
Published: August 2012

This article questions the simplicity with which not only Old Testament specialists, but theologians in general – especially in the Protestant tradition – usually identify the Hebrew text as printed in the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia (and its predecessors) as the “real” Old Testament. The relevant questions are grouped into four clusters: What is meant by “Tenach” and “Old Testament”, what is a canon, is the Jewish Tenach continued in the same way as the Christian Old Testament, what are the theological implications of their dissimilarity and their association? An argument is developed in which it is concluded that there are several conditions under which the Tenach of the Jews and the Old Testament of Christians can not be called the same Bible. Only when the canon is seen as a process as opposed to a list or a book, can a positive answer to the question be given. Several advantages of this approach conclude the discussion.
Die boek Josua gelees teen ’n na-eksiliese agtergrond
Authors: Lindeque G.C.
Published: August 2012

Reading the book of Joshua against a post-exilic backgroundThis article argues that the book of Joshua portrays the idealistic views held by the post-exilic community on the history of Israel. The book displays remarkable similarities with Third Isaiah and with narratives from the post-exilic period. By reading the book of Joshua against a post-exilic background, it obtains theological significance, not as a historical account of the occupation of the land, but as a call for the acceptance of foreigners into the community of the people of YHWH, as well as for the decentralization of religious power. The book owes its final form to a marginalized group, who were in conflict with the religious leaders in Jerusalem. The book of Joshua functioned as a contra-narrative against the exclusive claims made by the returning exiles.
Isaiah 61:1-3(4-9) 10-11 Transferor of privileges, an “identikit” of the servant of the Lord?
Authors: Kruger H.A.J.
Published: August 2012

On the basis of the demarcation of the book of Isaiah into three distinct literary units, scholarly opinion has ruled out the possibility that Isaiah 61:1-4 (5-9) 10-11 (as part of Trito-Isaiah) might be given the status of a so-called Servant Song along with the other group of “genuine” Servant Songs (Isa 42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-1; 52:13-53:12, as part of Deutero-Isaiah). The paper argues that Isaiah 61 should be integrated with the other four Songs, bringing the number of the Songs of the Servant to five. Arguments to support the case include a profile of the figure in chapter 61 in relation to the one described in the first four Songs; the application of what may be called a “democratization” concept; the mediating function of the figure referred to in Isaiah 61, and the role of the literary structure of the eleven chapters of Isaiah 56-66.
Die teksfunksie en boodskap van Jesaja 49:1-6
Authors: Da Silva A.A. , Breytenbach A.P.B.
Published: August 2012

The textual function and message of Isaiah 49:1-6The purpose of this article is to arrive at legitimate deductions about the textual function and the theological message of Isaiah 49:1-6. This goal is pursued by means of a method consisting of a synchronic analysis, a diachronic analysis, and a reception-critical analysis.
’n Perspektief op hoop as pastorale bemagtiging in die rouproses
Authors: Smith Willem , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

A perspective on hope as pastoral empowerment in the grief processThis article elaborates on existing research pertaining to the grief process. It focuses on the dynamics and effect of grieving. Grief is experienced differently by different individuals. The aim of the article is to search for ways in which people can exist with authenticity and hope in the presence of God in spite of the experience of loss. Three issues are addressed: the circumstances of grief; the influence of people’s God-images on the grief process; as well as the traditional viewpoint on the phases and emotions connected with the grief process and an alternative perspective. The article highlights the dynamics and diversity of experiences in the grief process.
To know how to find. To find without knowing: Wisdom in the Gospel of Thomas
Authors: Liebenberg J.
Published: August 2012

At the SBL meeting in Orlando in 1998, the contemporary metaphor theory practised by cognitive linguists such as Lakoff, Johnson and Turner, was used to identify some of the basic metaphors appearing in Thomas 1-5, which the author believes to be important for coming to terms with the metaphoricity of many of the sayings in the Gospel. The ensuing discussion of Thomas 08 and Thomas 109 is yet another attempt to show how the insights of cognitive linguistics, which have for the most part been ignored by contemporary commentators on the parables and aphorisms of Jesus, can perhaps provide us with fresh insights into this part of the sayings of the Jesus tradition.
Kultuurkritiek en die Hervormde benadering tot teologiebeoefening: ’n Gestaltegewing en uitdaging
Authors: Beukes Johann
Published: August 2012

A critique of culture and the Hervormde approach to doing theology: A description and challengeThis article investigates the relation between a critique of culture and the theological approach which is detectable in the theological labour of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk. This theological approach is being described with reference to the three main intellectual traditions that maintain this approach in an equivocal fashion, namely the ethical, confessional and dialectical traditions. After summarising the most prominent characteristics and claims of these traditions, the author proceeds to bring this approach in relation to aspects of contemporary critique of culture.
Die relasie tussen grondbesit en die sosiale struktuur van Palestina in die Herodiaanse tyd
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

The relationship between land tenancy and social struc-ture of Palestine in the Herodian eraThe article describes the relationship between land tenancy and social structure of Palestine. Secondly it describes the conflicting percep-tions of land tenancy within the social structure of Palestine. The conflicting perceptions of land tenancy led to conflict between the elite and the peasants. This conflict was intensified by the hierarchical social structure of Palestine. The article concludes that the use of the social scientific model of the social structure of Palestine prevents anachronism and reductionism in the interpretation of biblical evidence regarding land tenancy.
Ekonomie in die tyd van die Bybel as ’n huishouding-gebaseerde ekonomie
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

Economy in the time of the Bible as a household based economyThe aim of this article is to describe the economy in the time of the Bible as a household economy. Firstly, the results of social scientific research indicated that the family institution was the primary socio-economic and political building block of the first century Mediterranean world. Secondly, the social scientific model of the pre-industrial city is used as interpretation framework for the first century Mediterranean economy. The article concludes with a reflection on the exploitation of peasants by urban elite and aristocrats. They were absent landowners who controlled the land and production on the land.
Science, religion and the need for a world-view
Authors: Haikola Lars
Published: August 2012

This article maintains that humankind is in need of a world-view and that traditionally, this need was fulfilled by myth and religion. The mechanistic world-view was created as a result of the breakthrough in science in the 17th century. Early Christianity reacted to science by including the new scientific knowledge as part of religious knowledge. This reaction was formulated within Natural Theology and the Design Argument. After Darwin, when the Design Argument became implausible, science and religion were defined as two different realms or jurisdictions. Today, the new physics has created new scientific knowledge which undermines the mechanistic world-view. Despite this fact, a new world-view has not emerged and this can be attributed to the status of science having changed, rather than to a new content in science.
Deuteronomy between Pentateuch and the Deuteronomistic history
Authors: Van Seters John
Published: August 2012

The problem of how Deuteronomy relates to the Pentateuch and to the book of Joshua came to the fore with Noth’s thesis of a Deuteronomistic History, which was in conflict with the earlier support for a Hexateuch in the Documentary Hypothesis. With the current decline of the Documentary Hypothesis, one approach is to give greater emphasis to Pentateuchal and Hexateuchal redactors, often in place of the J and P sources, which either use Deuteronomy to conclude the Pentateuch or to build a bridge to the Deuteronomistic History. An alternative view, expressed in this paper, rejects the notion of such redactors and sees J and P as later than, and supplementary to, the Deuteronomistic History. To support this view, the article will examine Eckart Otto’s Pentateuchal redactor in Deuteronomy 4, at parallel texts in Numbers and Deuteronomy, and at Pentateuchal and Hexateuchal redactors in Deuteronomy 34 and Joshua 24.
Pseudepigraphic Paulines in the New Testament
Authors: Verhoef Eduard
Published: August 2012

In order to verify the presence of pseudepigraphic epistles in the New Testament, scholars have often argued that followers of a famous philosopher, such as Pythagoras or Plato, wrote pseudepigraphic do-cuments. This argument presumes that pseudepigraphy was an accepted phenomenon in antiquity and that the writing of epistles under someone else's name was socially not offensive. In this article, this presumption is questioned. The article shows that writers could be banished or put to death if it was the intention of their writings to deceive their audience as far as the identity of the author thereof. As epistles are distinguished from short stories or poems, writings which were written with the intention of deceiving their readers should be set apart from those without such an intention. In view of this distinction the article establishes categories of “Pauline” epistles in the New Testament. The aim is to argue that there are indeed epistles which intended to deceive their readers with regard to “Pauline” authorship. The legitimacy of these epistles would have been rejected on account of their pseudepigraphic nature.
Die plek en funksie van topologie as teologiese belangeruimte in die struktuur van die Matteus-evangelie
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

The place and function of topology as theological point of interest in the structure of the Gospel of MatthewThis article focuses on the place and function of topology within the structure of Matthew. An overview of the different models on the struc-ture of Matthew shows the dominance of the chiastic model. The author uses the topological-chiastic model to illustrate the significance of the landscape and topology in the Gospel of Matthew. The aim of the article is to emphasize the significance of house, land and topology in Matthew’s Gospel from a theological perspective. The conclusion is that there is a relationship between the chiastic structure of Matthew and the topological movement in the plot of Matthew.
A profile of the belief in Jesus and salvation among the Afrikaans speaking Christian youth
Authors: Pieterse Hendrik J.C.
Published: August 2012

This article is based on the results of a large-scale empirical-theolo-gical research project on “Religion and Human Rights among South African Youth.” Using the extensive database of this project, the article focuses on the results on the images of Jesus and the belief in salvation of Grade 11 learners. The results present a profile of the pluralistic and diverse scale of nuances in the belief structures of Christian teenagers. The results of the English-speaking private school learners are placed alongside the results of the Afrikaans speaking public school learners in order to obtain a more prolific picture of the belief of the Afrikaans speaking youth. The effect their belief in salvation has on their views regarding human rights is also examined. The results challenge the preacher to think dialectically and hermeneutically in a new age and context.
Psalm 69:36c-37b: A reinterpretation of a deuteronomic-deuteronomistic formula?
Authors: Groenewald Alphonso
Published: August 2012

In Psalm 69:36c-37b reference is made to the deuteronomic-deuterono-mistic formula “yrš ‘rs” (i e possession of the land). A reinterpretation of this formula in these verses is proposed. The promise regarding the possession of the land is not made to the whole of Israel, as is the case in Deuteronomistic literature, but, instead, possession of the land is promised only to the “offspring of the servants”, in other words “those who love his name”, the pious, the community of the “servants”. The aim of this article is to deal with the issue of the “possession of the land” in Psalm 69:36c-37b in more detail.
Die invloed van Ernst Bloch op die Politieke Teologie van Johann Baptist Metz
Authors: Hofmeyr Murray
Published: August 2012

The influence of Ernst Bloch on the Political Theology of Johann Baptist MetzThis article deals with the decisive influence that Ernst Bloch had on the young German Catholic theologian during the 1960s, as he grew progressively dissatisfied with the categories of Rahner’s anthro-pological or transcendental theology. It is argued that Bloch’s influence is to be understood more in terms of his modern Jewish Messianism than his Marxism. Through his intense friendship with Bloch. Metz rediscovered the Jewish traditions that have been suppressed in Catholic Christianity. He gained the courage to confront the certainties of his own theological tradition with his unreconciled experiences of non-identity. Bloch taught Metz to appropriate eschatology as belonging to the centre of Christianity, to relate transcendence and future, and to clarify the relationship between human praxis and future as transcendence. But such eschatology operates with a problematical concept of praxis.
Vilifikasie: ’n Nuwe kyk op die bedreiging in Kolossense
Authors: Boonzaaier Jaco
Published: August 2012

Vilification: A new approach to the threat in ColossiansAn overview of research reveals that the quest to identify the opponents in Colossians appears to be a dominant research theme. However, despite this fact, there is still no general consensus about the identity of the opponents, nor about the intensity of the threat they posed. The nett result is a situation where speculation about possible and probable opponents abounds. The article proposes an approach in terms of which the rather vague references to the opponents are to be understood as part of the rhetorical strategy of vilification, a well known strategy whereby an author trivialized the opponents of a viewpoint in order to emphasize his message. The article describes essential characteristics of vilifications and traces occurrences thereof in the letter. It concludes that a study of the letter can be conducted without the prerequisite study of the opponents and their ways. This provides the freedom to re-identify with the message of the text in a new and fresh way.
Berg en huis as primêre metafore in die Matteus-evangelie
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

Mountain and house as primary metaphors in the Gospel of MatthewThe aim of this article is to show that mountain and house are signifi-cant theological spaces of interest. The temptation of Jesus will be interpreted within the context of the mountain-motif in Matthew. The wilderness, temple and mountain are places of eschatological expec-tations. For this reason it was suitable as places for the temptation and calling of the Son/Son of God. We will also describe house as a primary metaphor and as a space of interest with theological significance. We conclude that mountain and house as primary metaphors have a significant topological-theological meaning in the Gospel of Matthew.
Wêreld- en tydsbeskouing in antieke kulture
Authors: Nel Marius
Published: August 2012

View of the world and time in ancient culturesThree important cultures that dominated the Ancient Near East in the three millennia BCE are investigated to delineate their world views, as well as their views of time and eternity. The aim of the article is to describe the view of the world and time in ancient cultures. The Egyptian, Mesopotamian and Vedic Indian cultures and theologies largely have the same view of the world, namely that it is an ordered unity that would keep on existing as it is known for all ages and time to come. Among these cultures there is no expectation of a world that would be made perfect, or become immutable in its perfection. They did not fantasize about a world without chaos. Chaos is the one factor that exists through all ages alongside order. Chaos is known to human beings in their daily existence in the form of warfare, drought and floods, with resultant famine. These conditions were typical of those times in areas where, with the exception of the fertile valleys alongside rivers, desert conditions otherwise prevailed and are interpreted theologically in terms of a combat between order and chaos, or between gods and demons.
The land: Primary category of faith
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

This review article of Walter Brueggemann’s book “The land: Place as gift, promise, and challenge in biblical faith” (2002) mainly focuses on land as the primary category of faith in the Bible. The main focus is on the dialectical interrelationship between land possession and land-loss. A holistic, systemic and triangular interrelationship exists between God, land, Israel and Torah/covenant. The balance in this triangular relationship is essential for equilibrium in the system. The pendulum thus swings between land, exile and kingdom or in other words, between “landedness” and “landlessness”. The conclusion is that ignorance of this holistic and triangular interrelationship is of great cost and peril to any generation’s perspective on land.
Constitualised space in Daniel 9
Authors: Venter P.M.
Published: August 2012

The prayer in Daniel 9 theologically paved the way for prayers in the later synagogue. In this chapter the Daniel tradents linked a traditional penitential prayer to an apocalyptic narrative. Through this combination their view that man has to wait upon God to change history, is extended into a life of sanctification, teaching, fasting and the offering of penitence. As these tradents were estranged from the temple, they had to find somewhere else to conduct their liturgical services. Their apocalyptic mythological view of the temple enabled them to constitualise holy space away from the material temple. In this way they paved the way for the synagogue as house of prayer in later times.
Ad fontes – terug na die Skrif, of na Jesus, of na die belydenis?
Authors: Van Wyk D.J.C.
Published: August 2012

Ad fontes – back to Scripture, or to Jesus, or to Dogma?A critical approach to the New Testament, its origins, and the development of theological trajectories in the early Jesus movements have caused historians to look for the foundational authority beyond the biblical canon as the decisive authority of Christianity. Some have indicated Jesus as the primary authority for the earliest followers of Jesus. Others have identified doctrinal traditions as authoritative before the canon was finally established. This study challenges the church as institution to consider a foundational authority beyond the written and canonised Scripture as a normative source for Christian faith and life.
Sarah's submissiveness to Abraham: A socio-historic interpretation of the exhortation to wives in 1 Peter 3:5-6 to take Sarah as example of submissiveness
Authors: Janse Van Rensburg Fika
Published: August 2012

In 1 Peter 3:5-6 the author of First Peter refers to the holy women of the past who were submissive to their own husbands, and then refers to Sarah who obeyed Abraham and called him master. A socio-historic interpretation of this exhortation to wives in 1 Peter 3:5-6, using Sarah's submissiveness to Abraham as example of submissiveness, is given. This is done in order to approximate the reception of this tradition in First Peter, and the way the letter’s first hearers/readers’ (specifically the women) understood the author’s exhortation, and to establish what the implications of this exhortation are for the role of women in churches today.
The Jerusalem Temple in Luke-Acts
Authors: Taylor N.H.
Published: August 2012

Luke-Acts was written during the period after the destruction of the second temple, when, for most Jews, hopes for future restoration were conceived largely in terms of rebuilding the temple and city of Jerusalem and resuming the cultic life associated therewith. Against this background Luke poses an alternative vision, in which the divine presence associated previously with the [foreign font omitted] is seen no longer as localised but as dispersed. The Holy Spirit manifested in the life and expansion of the Church transcends and supersedes the notion of sacred space associated with the Zion traditions.
Reading the Bible again with Marcus Borg
Authors: Schutte P.J.W.
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on Marcus J Borg’s book “Reading the Bible again for the first time” with the all important subtitle “Taking the Bible seriously but not literally.” He offers a new understanding of Scripture that respects both tradition and reality, blending biblical scholarship with a concern for authentic faith. This article presents a synopsis of the contents of Borg’s book, together with remarks, additions and even includes contradictory viewpoints from other contemporary scholars, which are being included not with the purpose of taking sides, but to stimulate conversation on Bible reading, a burning issue of our times.
The Banyamulenge people: Their angst, honour and shame in the light of the Matthean Community
Authors: Rukundwa S.L.
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on two theological contributions based on a social analysis of the Gospel of Matthew and its application to the Banyamulenge community in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the work of Overman (1990, 1996) on the formation of the Matthean community and its identity versus formative Judaism in their cultural setting; the work of Neyrey (1998) on honour and shame codes in the social context of the Matthean community. The article analyses the commitment of the first Banyamulenge Christian believers in light of the cultural codes of honour and shame, which were also part of the community’s survival mechanisms. The life story of Madam Kibihira is compared to other women entries in Jesus’ genealogy (Mt 1) and the Canaanite woman (Mt 15). Madam Kibihira was the first woman who became Christian and also the first Banyamulenge victim for her faith in Christ. The article argues that faith earns honour regardless of social status.
HIV/AIDS, narrative practical theology, and postfoundationalism: The emergence of a new story
Authors: Müller Julian
Published: August 2012

The practical theology that emerges from this article is one that develops out of a very specific context – in this case, HIV/AIDS. The philosophical framework is found in an integration of two paradigms, namely social-constructionism and postfoundation-alism. The article concludes with a research case study from the HIV/AIDS context. Practical theological research is not only about description and interpretation of experiences, but it is also about deconstruction and emancipation. The bold move should be made to allow all the different stories of the research to develop into a new story of understanding that transcends the local community. According to the narrative approach, this will not happen on the basis of structured and rigid methods, through which stories are analysed and interpreted. It rather happens on the basis of a holistic understanding and as a social-constructionist process to which all the co-researchers are invited and in which they are engaged in the creation of new meaning.
Rebel soldiers as good Samaritans: New Testament parables in an African context
Authors: Jackson Glenna S.
Published: August 2012

This article aims to critique western understanding of New Testament times. Most of the historical reconstructions done in the West are based on what biblical scholars have learned through primary and secondary written sources, occasionally from archaeological findings. The article recounts the author’s experiences at Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe. Students who themselves live in agrarian, technologically undeveloped rural areas, convinced her to return to Africa in order to travel with them and learn for herself how they relate to an economically poor lifestyle of two thousand years ago. As a result, the article argues that the ordinary in Africa should be seen as extraordinary from a western worldview and completes a full circle by being in the context of New Testament times.
The Dead in Christ: Recovering Paul’s understanding of the after-life
Authors: Cromhout Markus
Published: August 2012

The study of the so-called “intermediate state” of the dead is conducted under the technical designation necrology. The evidence suggests that Paul’s necrology did not remain constant and its development was influenced by personal circumstances. Paul’s necrology consisted of two phases. Phase one: The dead were considered as “the others”. They were the ones to be raised. Phase two: Paul realised that he could be one of “the others” and the theological content of his necrology demanded further clarification. Drawing on his being-in-Christ mysticism, Paul stated that the dead would experience fellowship “with Christ”. It is also explicitly stated that Christians would retain their resurrection status in death and objectively experience the resurrection body that is under construction. This transformation process will be completed at the parousia.
Erotiese oordrag en teenoordrag as psigologiese fenomeen in ’n pastorale relasie
Authors: Dreyer T.F , Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

The psychological phenomenon of erotic transference and countertransference within the framework of pastoral careThis article aims to discuss the psychological phenomenon of transference and countertransference in therapeutical relationships. This phenomenon often leads to a sexual relationship resulting in emotional and psychological damage to both partners. The cause of this destructive sexual relationship is based on the therapist’s misunderstanding of positive transference within the therapeutic relationship. The therapist, unknowingly in most instances, misuses his or her position of trust for sexual exploitation of the client. This phenomenon also manifests in pastoral relationships. This article describes the phenomenon and provides possible guidelines to the pastor in order to identify and prevent the occurrence of “sex in the forbidden zone.”
“Genes Я us” – Of juis nie? Oor determinisme en voluntarisme by die mens met verwysing na homoseksualiteit
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

“Genes Я us” – or not? About human determinism and voluntarism, with reference to homosexualityThis article has as its departure point the conviction of some that human genome mapping predisposes human beings genetically and as a consequence, the homosexual person becomes a mere victim of circumstances. Biological determinism and social construc-tionism are not mutually exclusive and although a person is orientated within a web of boundary matters, the depiction of a human being as imago Dei still prevails. A person has the freedom to choose and the responsibility to do so. One’s understanding of reality provides a frame of reference from which a definition of morality is derived. The suggestion of Nancey Murphey to understand reality as a “nonreductive physicalism” is followed. Reductionism in any form is subsequently avoided. A holistic view of humankind in terms of which religious experience is seen as more than some brain functions and people are embedded in a “sacred canopy”, is therefore advocated.
’n Alternatiewe formulier vir die bevestiging van dienaars van die Woord
Authors: Beukes M.J. de P
Published: August 2012

An alternative formulary for the investiture of church ministersThis study aims to present an alternative formulary for the investiture of ministers in the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika. The new formulary reflects the author’s views that were initially outlined in part and verified by a number of church ministers and congregational members of the church. The article argues for the necessity of a rephrasing of existing formularies, given the current postmodern perceptions of the functions of the church over against the style of the current formulary. Current perceptions of the functions of ministers also necessitate an alternative formulary for the investment of church ministers.
Die psalms as himnes in ’n liturgiese konteks
Authors: Vos C.J.A.
Published: August 2012

The liturgical function of the hymns in the psalmsIn many ways the psalms fulfill a bridging function between divergent denominations that previously avoided each other. In the Hebrew text of the Psalter most of the psalms bear clear titles. None of the titles of the psalms originated together with the actual psalms. Instead, they offer instruction to the reader about the process that led to the compilation of the psalms into collection. The psalms are more than liturgy and liturgy comprises more than merely psalms. Therefore, the psalms cannot simply be clothed in liturgical vestments. Hymns that occur in the Book of Psalms form the focus of this article. It is clear that the praise in the hymns follows different patterns. The article aims to explore the liturgical function of the hymns in the psalms.
Reviewing history in apocalyptic literature as ideological strategy
Authors: Venter P.M.
Published: August 2012

Reviews of history are ideological constructions. This article investigates historical reviews in the apocalyptic literature of Daniel and Ethiopic Enoch. In Daniel 2 a fourfold scheme of successive kingdoms/empires/eras is used to persuade the hearers that their political trials will come to an end. In Daniel 7 a theology of history is formulated in terms of animal symbols and four consecutive eras. This review is used to proclaim God’s total sovereignty over kings and kingdoms. The faithful can only wait with patience for God to bring history to its finalisation. In Enoch’s Apocalypse of the Weeks a historical review of humanity’s history is used to advocate the eschatological hope of the annihilation of sin and eternal vindication of righteousness. Summaries of history in the form of the traditional biblical history (1 Enoch 85-89) and an Animal Vision (1 Enoch 89-90) of seventy periods is used to appraise contemporary political-military events and advocate the reader’s participation in these actions as eschatological liberating events.
African witchcraft in theological perspective
Authors: Van Wyk I.W.C.
Published: August 2012

This article is a theological contribution aimed at creating an understanding of the phenomenon of witchcraft in South Africa. Witchcraft still causes major social problems in this country. The article argues that the development of a culture of human rights and the improvement of the judicial process alone will not solve this problem. Witchcraft is a too deeply rooted religious phenomenon. The phenomenon is described in its religious complexity and diversity. Witchcraft is discussed within the framework of the African theodicy.
Die opstanding van Jesus Christus as historiese gebeure
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

The resurrection as historical eventIn this article the understanding of the resurrection of Jesus by William Lane Craig, Gerd Lüdemann and John Dominic Crossan are used as starting point to discuss two issues with regard to the study of the resurrection of Jesus: the relationship between presuppositions and results in a theological enterprise, and the nature of the texts in the New Testament as either theology or as history. Attention is also given to the notion history as such. Finally, a thesis of the resurrection of Jesus as being historically probable, is postulated.
Hoe akkuraat kan ’n Bybelvertaling wees? [vreemd taal weggelaat] in 1 Johannes 5:1-4 as voorbeeld
Authors: Van der Watt Jan
Published: August 2012

How accurate can a Bible translation be? [foreign font omitted] as example in 1 John 5:1-4An analysis is made of different translations of [foreign font omitted] in 1 John 5:1-4. The inconsistencies in and among translations are noted. The influence of the socio-cultural ecology as well as the literary and grammatical aspects that play a role in the process of translation, are then illustrated. The complex nature of translation is underlined and it is suggested that the focus should fall on the purpose of a particular translation. This will lead to the purposeful use of different translating techniques in any particular translation. [We apologise for the poor quality of the foreign font]
Die Bybel in die geding: Teks versus dogma
Authors: Spies Lina
Published: August 2012

The Bible at stake: Text versus dogmaThis article concentrates on one of the great achievements of postmodernism regarding theology: the highlighting of the inseparable relation between religion and poetry. The article argues that, as we are unable to fashion a dependable representation of our world and of God, we have to return to the text and to the language of belief as sole way of expressing our thoughts about God and about belief. The language of belief is not the language of dogma, but that of poetry, and the language of poetry is figurative language. In illustration of this, the text of Samson is reread not as factually-true history, but as the tragic story of a person whose God-given calling and talents are in conflict with his natural drives and gifts, but whose heroic death nevertheless ultimately serves to glorify God. In conclusion the article pleads for the liberation of the Bible from the Greek-Roman construction of it, so that it may again begin to tell stories through which the reader may learn to comprehend something of God. So, too, the Jewishness of Jesus, which has been eroded by dogma and preaching, may be rediscovered.
Die nie al te wyse Salomo
Authors: Scheffler Eben
Published: August 2012

The not-so-wise SolomonIn this article it is argued that although the mere existence of Solomon is in contention in contemporary Old Testament scholarship, a historical Solomon can be accepted. However, this Solomon differs widely from the positive image of him that abounds not only in the Bible itself, but also in general Christian thought. In this article the relevant issues concerning the historical Solomon are put on the table and it is argued that a critical stance towards Biblical and other hero figures, which searches for a balance between individual and collective interests, befits more the attitude of a mature and responsible religion (and therefore spells wisdom).
Stories about care: Women in a historically disadvantaged community infected and/or affected by HIV/AIDS
Authors: Müller Julian C. , Pienaar Sunette
Published: August 2012

Black women in previously disadvantaged communities in South Africa carry the burden of triple oppression: (a) the social engineering policies synonymous with apartheid have marginalised women economically and socially; (b) patriarchy, embedded in cultural and religious discourses, has rendered women voiceless and powerless and (c) HIV/AIDS targets the most vulnerable: women and children. The authors describe a research experience in Atteridgeville, a historically disadvantaged community in South Africa, with a family of women infected and/or affected by HIV/AIDS, about their experiences of care and or the lack thereof. A narrative approach offers useful ideas to facilitate a process in which African women in historically challenged communities can speak out about their experiences of care and or the lack of care.
A woman praised by women is better than a woman praised by seven men
Authors: Loader James A.
Published: August 2012

The title, a parody on Ruth 4:15bb and Proverbs 31:28, counterposes the motif of praise in the final scene of what is probably the opus classicum for the foregrounding of women in the Old Testament with the same motif in a text notorious for praising women into subservience. After a short presentation of the text of Ruth 4:13-17, its main ideas and compositional relationships with the rest of the Book, the focus falls on the praise of the women of Bethlehem, its presuppositions, logic, use of terms and the role of its speakers in the story. It is concluded that a non-feminist, intentional reading highlights the critical perspective of women in the narrative, which means that the gist of mainstream feminist readings of the Ruth story is corroborated even from a perspective independent of feminist hermeneutic.
A cognitive linguistic approach to the emotion of anger in the Old Testament
Authors: Kotzé Zacharias
Published: August 2012

This article reviews several approaches to the study of anger in the Old Testament. It focuses on the use of methodology in these trends with specific reference to the common neglect of Classical Hebrew terminology and expressions relating to the emotion of anger. Such styles lead to an impoverished understanding of the ideal cognitive model of anger as reflected in Classical Hebrew. By contrast, the few recent cognitive linguistic studies on the same subject prove to be far more successful in giving a detailed account of the ancient Israelite conceptualisation of this emotion.
Coercive agency in mission education at Lovedale Missionary Institution
Authors: Duncan Graham A.
Published: August 2012

Any society and its institutions are coercive. While acknowledging the invaluable contribution made by mission education towards the development of black South Africans, Lovedale Missionary Institution exemplifies the concept of a “total institution” susceptible to the problems of power relations. Those who studied there internalized its ethos. Coercive agency encouraged adaptation to missionary ideology. However, many Lovedale students rejected the mores of the religion and education they received as they challenged and resisted the effects of the coercive agency of internalization. Institutionalisation is, by nature, resistant to change as can be seen in the policies of the respective Principals of the Institution. Consequently, black people were alienated by a process of “exclusion”. The values of justice, love and peace are appropriate tools for a new model of education in South Africa.
“God, die Allerhoogste, woon nie in mensgemaakte konstruksies nie”
Authors: Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

“God, Almighty, does not live in human made constructs”This article is a homiletic reflection on the words of Stephen in Acts 7:48f that “the most High dwelled not in temples made with hands; as said the prophet, ‘Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? said the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?’” The explication and application of these words are theologically contextualised with respect to current debates among theologians in the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk. The perspective represented in this reflection is based on the belief that faith affirmations had developed from a fundamental religious experience. When shared by others in a particular time and cultural context, the expressed faith experience became articulated in metaphorical language. From here on it could be transformed into a dogmatic creed, distanced from its origins. Putting one’s trust in dogma as metaphorical language without participation in the fundamental religious experience expressed by creedal language, amounts to confining God to human made constructs. The article focuses on several faith affirmations, such as God’s creation, Jesus’ virginal conception and his resurrection, and the expiation of sins.
Tentmaking ministry in the Hervormde Kerk in Suidelike Afrika: Solution or problem?
Authors: Manala Matsobane J.
Published: August 2012

Tentmaking ministry is a recommended interim measure which, for some churches is a permanent measure in respect of church ministry. Churches operating in poorer countries or in countries where sections of societies find themselves in financial crisis, resort to this kind of arrangement for service provision. In order for the church to effectively fulfil its mission in situations of abject poverty, it has become necessary to implement new methods and patterns of ministry. The tentmaking ministry is one such ministry pattern. The previous theory regarding ministry does not appear to measure up to new realities. Many churches, and recently, the Hervormde Kerk in Suidelike Afrika, have adopted the tentmaking ministry. In response to the challenge within to continuously test the relationship between theory and praxis, this article aims to evaluate the tentmaking ministry as applied in the Hervormde Kerk in Suidelike Afrika.
Witchcraft and its impact on black African Christians: A lacuna in the ministry of the Hervormde Kerk in Suidelike Afrika
Authors: Manala Matsobane J.
Published: August 2012

Witchcraft is presented as a threat to the life and well-being of the people of Africa, their embracement of Christianity notwithstanding. This article seeks to highlight the negative impact of witchcraft beliefs and experiences among many African people, including Christians and the educated, that is, “educated” in the western sense. The article identifies a lacuna in the Hervormde Kerk in Suidelike Afrika’s ministry to the sick and to those who find themselves engulfed by misfortune in one form or another and believed to have been caused by witchcraft. The article points to the need for a ministry that will be relevant and meaningful in addressing the illnesses and misfortunes of black African Christians.
Objektivisme en relativisme: Die wetenskap-filosofiese problematiek met betrekking tot historiese Jesus-studies
Authors: Ingram Riaan
Published: August 2012

Objectivism and relativism: Historical Jesus studies with regard to philosophy of scienceWhile many recent historical Jesus studies have been done from theological and methodological viewpoints, this article focuses on the perspective of the philosophy of science. It aims to view some contemporary historical Jesus studies with regard to the philosophy of science from the angle of philosophical hermeneutics inaugurated by Heidegger’s reflection on fundamental ontology. The article criticises both an objectivistic view about knowledge that data can be known in ways that correspond to actual objective existence and a relativistic mentality that undermines the value of truth-seeking.