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This study aims to understand the dynamics of self-awareness and transcendental experiences in high school students from the perspective of the psychology of religion. Adolescence is a developmental phase characterized by the search for identity, self-reflection, and increased spiritual awareness. This study used a qualitative approach with phenomenological methods to explore students' subjective experiences related to self-awareness and spiritual experiences. The study participants consisted of two high school students aged 15–18, selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection was conducted through in-depth semi-structured interviews supported by field notes. The data were analyzed using phenomenological analysis through the stages of phenomenological reduction, identification of key statements, grouping themes, and essential descriptions of experiences. The results indicate that spiritual experiences in worship practices foster a sense of closeness to God, encourage self-reflection, help students cope with stress, and foster awareness to improve behavior. These findings suggest that transcendental experiences play a significant role in the development of self-awareness and character formation in adolescents.

Texts depicting violence in the Old Testament, particularly Joshua 6:1–27, are often cited as evidence that the Bible legitimizes divine violence and genocide. This study aims to analyze the narrative of the conquest of Jericho through a historical-critical approach by integrating narrative structure analysis, historical-religious context, and a conceptual study of herem. The method used is a literature review with a qualitative approach that situates the text within the context of the Ancient Near East. The results of the study indicate that Joshua 6 is a systematically constructed theological narrative intended to affirm YHWH’s sovereignty as the Warrior-God and His faithfulness to the covenant with Israel. The concept of herem does not merely signify annihilation but functions as a mechanism for the sanctification of the people and the affirmation of covenantal identity in the face of the threat of syncretism. Furthermore, the use of war language in this text reflects the hyperbolic rhetoric characteristic of ancient literature, and thus cannot be read literally as a legitimization of modern violence. Consequently, a historical-critical reading affirms that this narrative is not a justification for genocide, but rather a theological construction that serves to shape the identity of faith and the understanding of God’s holiness and sovereignty in the history of Israel.

This research is prompted by the unique narrative of Rahab, a Canaanite woman who occupies a critical theological position in Israel’s history of salvation despite her status as an outsider to the chosen people. The primary focus of this study is to explore the dimensions of Rahab’s faith and God’s sovereignty as recorded in Joshua 2:1-12. This study aims to analyze how the confession of faith from a marginalized individual aligns with God's sovereign plan and to determine the relevance of these values for contemporary Christian witness. The method employed is a qualitative approach utilizing library research and exegetical analysis of the text in Joshua 2:1-12. The findings indicate that Rahab's faith was not merely an act of self-preservation but a theological response to the formidable power of God that transcends ethnic boundaries and social status. God's sovereignty is proven capable of working through unexpected subjects to fulfill His divine purpose. The implications of this research assert that modern Christian witness must be inclusive and transformative, where the courage to declare God's truth amidst threatening situations constitutes a tangible form of living faith. The church is called to perceive God's sovereignty as the fundamental basis for mission and witness, unrestricted by social or cultural exclusivity.    

Traditional artworks, amidst the tide of modernization and digitalization, face the challenge of being stigmatized as static relics of the past. However, in the midst of increasingly modern civilization, traditional artworks are perceived to possess philosophical values ​​for the younger generation. The meanings contained in traditional songs possess a social perspective lacking in most traditional songs composed in the modern era. The purpose of this article is to examine the lyrics of Ki Nartosabdo's song "Lumbung Desa" philosophically and sociologically, applying Roland Barthes's semiotic theory. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive approach to analyze semiotics, comprising the significance of denotation, connotation, and myth.The analysis shows that the denotation in the lyrics of "Lumbung Desa" depicts agricultural activities occurring in rural communities. Connotatively, the lyrics interpret the values ​​of human spirituality towards God, integrity in work, and food self-sufficiency. From a mythical perspective, the lyrics symbolize the values ​​of harmony in social life and mutual cooperation as a solid foundation for building national stability and progress. Further analysis of the song lyrics' relevance in the modern era shows that the meaning of "Lumbung" has transformed into financial and digital independence, while the value of "Rukun" points to the application of ethics in the use of digital media in the modern era. This article concludes that preserving traditional songs is a strategy to revive culture as a manifestation of material progress that impacts the well-being of modern society.

This study aims to examine the message of repentance in Jonah 3:1-10 through an interpretive analysis focusing on the manifestation of God's mercy toward non-Israelite nations. The background of this study is rooted in the theological tension between Israel's exclusivism and the universality of God's love reaching Nineveh, a nation notorious for its cruelty. The method used is qualitative with a historical-grammatical exegesis approach to uncover the meaning of the text in its original context. The research results show that Nineveh's repentance was a radical response to the warning of judgment, involving all elements of society from the common people to political authorities. This phenomenon proves that the primary purpose of God's prophecy of judgment is not destruction, but the transformation of human behavior. This analysis confirms that God's mercy is sovereign and transcends ethnic or geographical boundaries. The implications of this research emphasize the importance for modern faith communities to adopt an inclusive attitude and understand that the sovereignty of God's love cannot be limited by human prejudice against groups perceived as strangers or enemies

From the beginning of creation, God had forbidden the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil, warning that anyone who ate it would face death. However, this warning was ignored when Eve, tempted by Satan's persuasion, chose to disobey God's command. This action led to sin, as it reflected a wrong decision and went against God's will. Originally, Adam and Eve lived in a state of holiness and freedom from sin. God Himself stated that humans were created in His image and likeness, meaning they possessed a purity and nobility that reflected His love. However, their decision to eat the forbidden fruit removed that purity. As a result, humans were separated from God's holiness and fell into sin. This is the basis for the teaching affirmed in Romans 3:23, which states that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This wrong choice had profound consequences, illustrating the importance of obedience to God's commands for maintaining purity and an intimate relationship with Him.

This paper explores the role of Mary as a model of salvation in Catholic faith, focusing on the understanding of Mariology within the cultural context of the Ende-Lio people in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Mary is regarded not only as the Mother of Jesus Christ but also as an example of faith marked by humility, obedience, and hope. Her humility and willingness to accept God’s will, especially in the Annunciation, serve as a concrete inspiration for Catholics to respond faithfully to God’s call. Within the Ende-Lio culture, which values loyalty, solidarity, respect for ancestors, and harmony with nature, Mary becomes a figure closely connected to daily life. Devotions such as the rosary, pilgrimages to Marian grottoes, and the celebration of the Marian months highlight Mary’s living presence in both the faith and cultural traditions of the community. Thus, Mary serves as a bridge between the Gospel and local culture, revealing a Church that is rooted in its own soil yet remains faithful to Christ. This reflection affirms that contextual faith is a living faith deeply rooted in local culture while open to the saving work of God.

This theological research explores Mary’s essential role in the narrative of salvation and her deep connection with the Church, as outlined in key Catholic documents like Lumen Gentium and Redemptoris Mater. Using a qualitative approach that combines descriptive and analytical methods, the study reviews Church teachings, Scripture, and theological literature. It highlights Mary’s pivotal status as Mother of God (Theotokos) a title affirmed by the Council of Ephesus in 431 CE, which underscores both Christ’s divinity and Mary’s unique participation in God’s redemptive plan. The study traces the theological roots of this title through biblical texts, portraying Mary as the chosen vessel through whom the Word became incarnate. It examines how Old Testament prophecies about Mary are fulfilled in New Testament events, especially in the Annunciation and Elizabeth’s greeting of Mary as “the mother of my Lord.” The research also delves into Mary’s bond with the Church, focusing on her recognition as Mother of the Church by Pope Paul VI during the Second Vatican Council. Mary is presented as the ideal disciple, embodying unwavering faith, obedience, and humility in her acceptance of God’s will. Her presence at key moments, from the Incarnation to Pentecost, positions her as both a member and a model of the Church. Ultimately, the study concludes that Mary’s unity with the Church is reflected in her dual role as Mother of Christ and spiritual mother to all believers, offering a profound example of Christian virtues and guiding the faithful in their collective journey toward salvation.

The development of digital technology has transformed information consumption patterns, including within the realm of spiritual belief. Generation Z, as the generation born and raised in a digital world the digital ecosystem, exhibits new tendencies in understanding and internalizing noble values through various digital platforms. This study aims to analyze the consumption patterns of virtual content among Generation Z from the perspective of adherents of indigenous beliefs in the One Supreme God (Penghayat Kepercayaan terhadap Tuhan Yang Maha Esa), and to examine its implications for modern forms of spirituality. The method used in this study is a literature review with a descriptive qualitative approach, focusing on theoretical studies concerning digital religiosity, media literacy, and spiritual individualization. The results of the study show that digital media, especially platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Podcasts, have become an alternative space for Generation Z to explore and express spiritual values independently, interactively, and contextually. This phenomenon also presents challenges in the form of the spread of unverified information and the potential to distort facts regarding the authenticity of the teachings of the belief. Therefore, spiritual digital literacy is needed to guide Generation Z to remain critical, rational, and selective in consuming religious content in the digital space.

This study examines the local wisdom values of the Javanese and Batak ethnic groups in maintaining harmony between humans and nature, as well as their relevance to shaping the spirituality of Generation Z. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with a library research approach. Data were obtained from books, scientific articles, and previous studies. The findings show that Memayu Hayuning Bawana and Habonaron Do Bona both emphasize balance and harmony among humans, nature, and God. These values can be applied by Generation Z to develop ecological spirituality rooted in local wisdom and aligned with modern challenges. This study contributes to strengthening the spiritual identity of young generations in the digital era through the revitalization of local wisdom values, The younger generation can find a more holistic and harmonious life guide, while strengthening their spiritual identity amidst the currents of globalization and digitalization. This research contributes to efforts to shape the character and spirituality of an environmentally conscious young generation, based on local wisdom.

This reseacrch aims to reveal the metaphusical meaning within the Penti ceremony as a form of thanksgiving to God (Mori Kraeng) in the Kuleng Waga Tribe community, Mano Village, Easr Manggarai. The Penti ceremony is a hereditary customary rite that marks the end of the harvest season and server as a religious momentum to renew the relationship between humans, nature, ancestors, and God. From a metaphysical perspective, Penti reflects the awareness of the existential interconnectedness between creatures and the Creator, as developed in the philosophy of Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas concerning actus assendi and participatio entis. Through a qualitative approach and cultur hermeneutics, this study interprets the symbols and ritual actions of Penti as a concrete expression of the ontological relationship between sreation and the Transcendent. The result of the study show that Penti contains three main metaphysical dimensions: first, the ontological dimension regarding human awareness of existence and dependence on God; Second, the perticipatory dimension concerning the role of ancestors as a spiritual bridge between humans and God; Third, the eschatological dimension regarding the hope for the ultimate perfection of life in God. Thus, Penti not only holds cultural value but also carries profound theological and metaphysical meaning.

This article examines Numbers 22:21–35 through narrative analysis and theological irony. The pericope of Balaam's talking donkey is one of the most unique narratives in the Hebrew Bible, combining supernatural elements with a profound theological critique of a mercenary prophet. This study aims to reveal how the author employs narrative irony as a vehicle for divine rebuke: God uses a mute animal to reprimand a prophet who should have been sensitive to His word. Using the narrative exegesis method that attends to plot, characterization, point of view, and dramatic tension, this article traces the theological meaning behind the irony. Findings indicate that this narrative is not merely miraculous but contains a critique of Balaam's ambiguous motivations between loyalty to God and temptation by material reward. The donkey, ordinarily silent, becomes an instrument of divine correction more obedient than the prophet himself. The theological implication is that God sovereignly uses any means to convey His will, including what is weak and despised by human standards.

Christian education plays a strategic role in shaping the faith, character, and spiritual life of learners however, learning processes often remain theoretical, limiting the internalization of faith values. This study aims to examine the concept of theological reflection using the Sharing Christian Praxis (SCP) method in Christian education, explore its application, and analyze its relevance to contemporary life. This research employs a qualitative approach with a literature study method, drawing on relevant books, scientific journals, and academic sources. The findings indicate that theological reflection is a fundamental process in Christian education that enables learners to interpret life experiences in the light of God’s Word, resulting in authentic faith transformation. The SCP method, developed by Thomas H. Groome, provides an operational framework for implementing this theological reflection through systematic stages: sharing life experiences, critical reflection, engagement with Scripture, dialogue, and commitment to action. The relationship between theological reflection and SCP is integral and synergistic; theological reflection provides direction and depth, while SCP operationalizes this process dialogically and contextually, the application of SCP in Christian education has proven effective in increasing learner engagement and connecting faith with daily life. It is recommended that Christian educators implement SCP as a primary learning method, and that educational institutions integrate it into their curriculum development strategies.

This study examines the relationship between suffering in Job 1–21 and God's sovereignty in the Old Testament. The problem arises from the tension between the theology of retribution that links suffering to sin and the reality that the righteous can also suffer. Job is a key figure in understanding this theological dilemma. This study uses a qualitative method with a biblical exegetical approach through analysis of historical context, literary structure, and theological meaning. The primary data comes from the text of Job 1–21, supported by relevant theological literature. The analysis is conducted descriptively and analytically to find the relationship between suffering and God's sovereignty. The results show that Job's suffering is not a direct result of sin, but rather occurs within the scope of God's sovereignty that transcends human understanding. This text also critiques the rigid understanding of the theology of retribution and emphasizes that faith is rooted in trust, not merely rational understanding. Job's perseverance demonstrates that suffering can be a means of faith growth as well as a test that deepens humanity's relationship with God. This study emphasizes that suffering is part of God's sovereign plan and encourages believers to remain faithful and persevere amidst the uncertainties and struggles of life.

This study aims to examine the theological meaning of love for the poor in the apostolic exhortation Dilexi Te and to reflect on its relevance within the context of Indonesia’s pluralistic society. The research employs a qualitative method with a literature study approach, using Dilexi Te as the primary source, supported by relevant theological and social literature. The findings reveal that love for the poor in Dilexi Te is not merely a charitable act but constitutes the core of Christian faith, inseparable from one’s relationship with God. This love is integral, encompassing spiritual, moral, and structural dimensions, and calls for active engagement in promoting social justice and addressing the root causes of poverty. Theologically, solidarity with the poor is grounded in the mystery of Christ’s incarnation and the principle of the preferential option for the poor. In the Indonesian context of diversity, this teaching holds strong relevance as a foundation for fostering interreligious solidarity, strengthening social cohesion, and encouraging both the Church and society to work toward a more just, inclusive, and humane social order. Therefore, this study highlights that theological reflection on love for the poor is not merely normative but also carries concrete social implications in a pluralistic society.

The rapid development of digital technology and artificial intelligence has transformed human life in significant ways while simultaneously fostering a reductionist understanding of the human person based on productivity, efficiency, and technical capability. This phenomenon poses serious challenges to the understanding of human dignity and identity. This study aims to examine the concept of the human person according to Pope Leo XIV in the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and to analyze its relevance for contemporary society. The research employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, drawing primarily on the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and related scholarly sources. The findings reveal that Pope Leo XIV understands the human person as created in the image and likeness of God (imago Dei), possessing an inherent dignity that does not depend on ability, social status, or productivity. This understanding is grounded in Christological and Trinitarian foundations, which affirm the human person as a relational being called to communion with God and others through love and self-giving. The encyclical also offers a critical response to technocratic paradigms, transhumanism, and posthumanism, which risk reducing human beings to technological objects or economic instruments. In the context of contemporary society, Pope Leo XIV’s thought provides a theological and ethical foundation for the development of human-centered technology while reinforcing respect for human dignity in social, educational, economic, and ecclesial life. This study concludes that the anthropological reflection presented in Magnifica Humanitas offers a significant contribution to addressing the human challenges emerging in the digital and artificial intelligence era.

The account of Moses’ death in Deuteronomy 34 has long drawn attention because of the questions it raises about what truly happened at the end of his life. The text leaves certain details unclear, especially regarding his burial and the absence of a known grave, which has led to different interpretations among scholars and faith communities. This study seeks to explore these interpretive possibilities, asking whether Moses simply died, was buried by God, or experienced a unique form of being taken by God. Using a qualitative approach based on literature review, this research engages biblical texts alongside selected contemporary studies. The discussion shows that the narrative intentionally allows room for multiple perspectives, rather than offering a single, definitive explanation. It also becomes clear that later Jewish and Christian traditions played a role in shaping how Moses’ death has been understood, often highlighting its deeper theological meaning. In the end, Moses’ death can be seen not only as the closing of his personal journey, but also as part of a larger story about leadership, transition, and God’s ongoing work among His people.

This study uses a qualitative research design with a literature study approach to examine the theological meaning of the suffering of the righteous in the Book of Job, specifically chapters 1–2 and 38–42. The literature study method was applied by collecting primary data in the form of biblical texts and secondary data from relevant national scientific journals. The approach used includes narrative interpretation to understand the story's structure, Job's character, and the dynamics of events, and theological interpretation to interpret suffering from the perspective of God's sovereignty. The results show that Job is portrayed as a righteous man who is pious, honest, and fears God, so his suffering is not related to personal sin. Job's suffering is holistic, encompassing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, and occurs in the context of God's permission of Satan's actions, confirming that no event is outside His sovereignty. God's response in chapters 38–42 emphasizes His greatness and wisdom through revelation from the storm, rather than through a rational explanation of the cause of suffering. These findings confirm that the primary purpose of suffering is not to be explained intellectually, but to purify faith and deepen humanity's relationship with God. Its relevance for the church today lies in the need for sound theological teaching on suffering, pastoral care for those who suffer, and the development of communities that sustain the faith and hope of the congregation. Thus, suffering, from the perspective of God's sovereignty, serves as a means of forming spiritual character, strengthening the resilience of faith, and recognizing the sovereign God.

Digital spirituality is a way of living and expressing spiritual life within the context of the digital world, where technology serves as a medium to strengthen one’s relationship with God, oneself, and the community. It is therefore a conscious effort to maintain and nurture faith amid the overwhelming flow of information on social media. The concept of From Scroll to Soul encourages believers not merely to be passive recipients of information but to engage spiritually by using technology as a tool for faith formation. Practices such as using spiritual apps, participating in online communities, selecting constructive content, and conducting digital detoxes are important steps to maintain focus on God. Theologically, digital spirituality affirms that God is present in every aspect of life, including virtual spaces. Technology can become a tool of grace that deepens one’s relationship with God and serves as a space for witnessing faith when used wisely. Thus, digital spirituality is not a rejection of technology but rather its use as a medium for growth, testimony, and bringing Christ’s values into the modern information culture.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) plays a crucial role in helping students develop faith based on the truth of God's Word. Therefore, a theological foundation plays a crucial role in the implementation of PAK, ensuring that educational activities are not only focused on knowledge transfer but also directed toward holistically shaping character and strengthening students' faith. This article aims to examine the theological foundation of Christian Religious Education in the process of developing students' faith based on Christian teachings. The method used in this study is literature analysis, examining various theological sources, the Bible, and writings related to Christian education. The findings of this study indicate that the theological foundation of PAK stems from God's calling as a true educator, the example of Jesus Christ as the Primary Teacher, and the role of the Holy Spirit in fostering and maintaining faith. Christian Religious Education based on strong theology can help students experience true growth in faith, internalize Christian values, and implement them in their daily lives.