Theology of Violence: Rape, Power, and Redemption in Religious Thought delves into one of the most difficult and urgent issues facing society today—sexual violence and its intersections with power, gender, and religion. This book critically explores how religious traditions and theological frameworks have historically addressed, justified, or resisted violence, particularly against women, and examines the profound impact of these perspectives on contemporary discussions of justice, healing, and redemption. Through a comprehensive analysis of sacred texts, theological writings, and modern interpretations, Vincent investigates how rape and sexual violence are understood and framed within different religious traditions. The book uncovers both the ways in which theology has been complicit in the perpetuation of abuse and how it can offer a path to healing and redemption for survivors. Key themes explored include: • Power and Patriarchy: How religious systems have shaped and reinforced gender hierarchies and violence. • Rape in Sacred Texts: A critical examination of key biblical, Quranic, and other religious texts that address sexual violence. • Redemptive Justice: How the concepts of justice and redemption can transform our understanding of violence and restoration. • Faith and Healing: The role of religious belief in the recovery and empowerment of survivors, offering hope beyond trauma. Theology of Violence challenges readers to grapple with the difficult questions surrounding violence, abuse, and redemption, offering new perspectives for both scholars and laypeople. By confronting these issues head-on, this book paves the way for a deeper understanding of how theology can either contribute to or resist systems of violence—and how it can ultimately lead toward healing and redemption. This is an essential read for those seeking to understand the complex relationship between religion, power, and sexual violence, as well as for anyone passionate about justice and healing within faith communities.
