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The fleeting nature of human life constitutes a key theme in theological reflections within the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Psalms in the Alkitab, which highlights human limitations and the inherent uncertainty of existence. Psalm 39:6–7 depicts human life as a transient shadow and emphasizes the futility of human efforts if they are not oriented toward God. This study seeks to explore the meaning of human transience in this passage and assess its theological significance for contemporary life. A qualitative approach with biblical hermeneutics is employed, considering historical, literary, and theological dimensions. The analysis indicates that the metaphor of the “shadow” illustrates human fragility, while the depiction of life’s futility critiques the human tendency to find purpose solely in worldly endeavors. Despite this, Psalm 39 ultimately directs readers toward hope in God, portraying Him as the ultimate source of true meaning. In a modern, materialistic context, this message continues to be relevant as a reminder of human dependency on God and the limitations of human life. Therefore, the transience of life does not signify the end of existential purpose but rather opens the way to deeper spiritual insight and the strengthening of faith.

The expression “God regretted” in Genesis 6:7 is one of the most theologically problematic statements in the Old Testament, as it seems to contradict the classical doctrine of God’s immutability. This study aims to examine the meaning of this expression through an exegetical approach, emphasizing the analysis of the Hebrew text and the lexical use of the word nāḥam. The method employed is qualitative-descriptive with a historical-grammatical and biblical-theological approach. The primary data are derived from the Hebrew text in the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia and supported by lexical sources. The results indicate that the word nāḥam in Genesis 6:7 does not imply regret in the sense of wrongdoing, but rather refers to divine sorrow over the moral corruption of humanity. The expression represents a form of anthropomorphism used to depict the relationship between God and humans in language comprehensible to human beings. From an Old Testament theological perspective, this text affirms that God is relational and active in history, without compromising the consistency of His character. Therefore, the “regret of God” does not contradict the doctrine of divine immutability, but rather enriches the understanding of His involvement in human life.

This study examines the anthropomorphic expression “the LORD came down to see” in Genesis 11:5 through an integrated historical–grammatical exegetical approach. The main objective is to analyze the lexical meaning, grammatical structure, historical context, and theological implications of the phrase within the framework of Old Testament theology. The research employs a qualitative library method, focusing on the Hebrew text supported by lexicons, commentaries, and Ancient Near Eastern studies. The findings indicate that the verb יָרַד (yārad) does not merely denote a spatial descent but signifies divine intervention, while רָאָה (rāʾāh) conveys evaluative and judicial observation. Grammatically, the use of the wayyiqtol form followed by an infinitive construct emphasizes intentional and purposeful divine action. Historically, the expression functions polemically against Mesopotamian religious concepts, particularly the idea of ziggurats as places where deities descend. Theologically, this anthropomorphic language serves as a medium to articulate the dynamic relationship between divine transcendence and immanence. Therefore, the phrase should not be understood literally but as a theological construct that communicates God’s active involvement and sovereign authority in human history.

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 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.

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.

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 examines Ad-Dakhil in Tafsir Al-Azhar by Buya Hamka, focusing on Israiliyyat narrations found in the interpretation of Qur’anic narrative verses in Juz 1–10. The research is motivated by the position of Israiliyyat as a form of infiltration (ad-dakhil) in Qur’anic exegesis that may affect the objectivity of interpretation, particularly in contemporary tafsir works. This study aims to identify the distribution of Israiliyyat narrations, classify their thematic patterns, and determine the status of each narration based on the critical framework of ad-dakhil fi at-tafsir. This research employs a qualitative library-based approach. The primary source is Tafsir Al-Azhar by Buya Hamka (Gema Insani, 2017), supported by classical and contemporary tafsir literature as well as scholarly works on Israiliyyat. Data were analyzed using the theory of ad-dakhil fi at-tafsir, classifying narrations into three categories: accepted (maqbul), rejected (mardud), and suspended (tawaqquf). The findings reveal seventeen Israiliyyat narrations scattered throughout Juz 1–10, originating from the Old Testament, the New Testament, Wahb bin Munabbih, ‘Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud, and Tafsir Ibn Kathir. These narrations fall into nine major themes, including the creation and origin of humanity, the story of Prophet Adam and his descendants, Prophet Ibrahim, Prophet Ya‘qub, Prophet Musa and Bani Israil, Prophet Sulaiman, Prophet Zakariya, Prophet ‘Isa and his people, as well as accounts of previous nations. Of these seventeen narrations, eleven are classified as rejected (mardud), five as tawaqquf, and one as accepted (maqbul). These results emphasize the necessity of critical engagement with Israiliyyat narrations in tafsir literature to preserve the integrity of Qur’anic interpretation.

The concept of the Day of the LORD in the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament is often narrowly understood as a day of victory and salvation for Israel. However, the book of Amos offers a sharp critique of such an interpretation. This study aims to examine the eschatological meaning of the Day of the LORD in Amos 5:18–24 as a moment of judgment and restoration. This research employs a qualitative method with a biblical hermeneutical approach, particularly historical-contextual and theological analysis of Amos 5:18–24. The findings indicate that the Day of the LORD is portrayed as a divine event that brings judgment against social injustice, religious hypocrisy, and ethical deviation among the people of Israel. At the same time, the text opens the possibility of restoration through the demand for justice and righteousness as expressions of true worship. Therefore, Amos’s eschatology is not speculative about the future but functions as a prophetic critique that calls for repentance and social transformation. This study affirms that the Day of the LORD remains contextually relevant for the contemporary church in integrating faith, worship, and social justice as an inseparable unity.

The death penalty remains a topic of ongoing debate from legal, moral, and religious perspectives. In Indonesia, the death penalty is still applied for certain serious crimes; however, its implementation is questioned because it is considered to conflict with the fundamental human right to life. From the perspective of Christian ethics, this issue becomes more complex as it relates to the understanding of life as a gift from God and the principles of justice and forgiveness. The Old Testament contains provisions for the death penalty as a means of upholding law and maintaining the holiness of the community, while the New Testament emphasizes love, restoration, and the opportunity for repentance through the example of Jesus Christ. This study aims to analyze how Christian ethics views the death penalty by examining the balance between justice and forgiveness as taught in Scripture. The method used in this research is literature review and conceptual analysis of biblical texts and theological sources. The findings indicate that Christian ethics does not merely reject or accept the death penalty, but directs toward an understanding of justice that restores human dignity. This perspective is expected to serve as an ethical consideration in responding to the application of the death penalty in modern society.

This paper focuses on a critical reflection on the text of Psalm 1:1-6, specifically introducing two opposing paths between "the way of the righteous" and "the way of the wicked." A critical approach to this text is carried out by considering interpretive and contextual aspects, and finding the meanings contained therein by connecting the experiences of modern-millennial humans. This writing uses qualitative methods and a library research approach, to the Bible, and the book of Psalms 1-72, as well as the book Traces of God's Salvation Work: An Introduction and the Ins and Outs of the Old Testament Scriptures. This writing involves critical reflection on the structure of the text, key words, and moral messages hidden in Psalm 1:1-6. In addition, this paper also explores the social and spiritual implications of understanding "the way of the righteous" and "the way of the wicked" in the context of modern-millennial society. The main finding in this writing is to provide deeper insight into how the concepts expressed in the Book of Psalms 1:1-6 can be applied in the lives of modern-millennial humans, as well as how the moral messages from the text can be relevant in guiding individuals in choosing the right path in life.

The covenant between God and Abraham serves as proof that God is a faithful God who never abandons His people, whether in times of joy or sorrow. This covenant is also one of the fundamental covenants in the Old Testament, with significant theological and historical implications. This article, we’re discusses and analyzes God’s covenant with Abraham and its implications for Christian faith today, based on Genesis 12:1-9. Through this covenant, God promises three main things to Abraham: numerous descendants, the promised land, and blessings for all nations. Futhermore, this covenant serves as the foundation of Israel’s identity and finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, as foretold in Genesis 3:15, namely the offspring that will be born a woman. This study serves as evidence and a model for Christians regarding Abraham’s obedience and steadfast faith, emphasizing that salvation in Jesus Christ is one of God’s fulfilled promises to Abraham. Thus, understanding this covenant strengthens the conviction that God remains faithful to His promises and that faith in Him is the foundation of true spiritual life for believers.

This article explores the exemplary life of Moses in the Old Testament as an inspiration for Generation Z in nurturing and sustaining their faith amidst the challenges of the digital era. As a spiritual leader and bearer of God's law, Moses exemplified obedience, courage, and faith-based leadership—values that remain relevant for today’s youth. Through significant events in his life such as the burning bush encounter, the Exodus, and the wilderness journey, Moses emphasized the importance of trusting God and living according to His commandments. The article also highlights the role of the family, particularly fathers, in providing spiritual education, as well as the necessity for continuous and contextually relevant faith education. By emulating Moses, Generation Z is encouraged to develop strong faith, maintain hope in God, and face societal pressures and life uncertainties with resilience and spiritual conviction.

The Book of Psalms is an important part of the Old Testament worship and theology tradition, reflecting the dynamics of human emotions in their relationship with God. Psalms 146-150 specifically highlight aspects of prayer and praise as expressions of joyful and hopeful faith. This study aims to interpret theologically how these five psalms describe the emotional response of believers to the work and character of God. With an exegetical and biblical theological approach, this study finds that Psalms 146-150 form a climax in the structure of the Book of Psalms, emphasizing the supremacy of praise as the primary form of worship. In addition, this study highlights how the emotional aspects of these psalms function not only as a reflection of individual faith experiences but also as a collective appeal for the community of believers. Thus, Psalms 146-150 emphasize that prayer and praise are the primary means of expressing the relationship between humans and God, while inspiring a spiritual life centered on worship.  

This article examines the relationship between the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) through a qualitative approach with a literature review method. The study aims to identify theological continuities and discontinuities between the two parts of the Bible as well as outline how the narrative of God's salvation develops from the OT to the NT. The analysis was conducted by examining various primary and secondary literature from theological scholars, biblical historians and commentators. The results show that despite differences in historical context and theological development, the OT and NT have an integral and complementary relationship, especially in terms of the fulfilment of prophecy, Messianic conception, and the unfolding of God's plan of salvation. The findings are expected to enrich the understanding of contemporary Christian theology and contribute to the dialogue between the OT and NT exegetical traditions.

The phrase “Emptying Himself,” by the apostle Paul addressed to the Lord Jesus in Philippians 2:7 can be interpreted in various ways. The phrase can be interpreted that when Jesus was born into the world he was like a human being in general, not divine. It can also be interpreted that Jesus was actually a human being in general who was born with a special mission like the prophets who lived in the Old Testament. The text research on “emptying oneself” is currently one of the important verses in Christian theology regarding Christology, because it describes the action of Jesus Christ who was willing to ‘empty himself’ or what is known as kenosis. The research on the text of Philippians 2:7 will be carried out by analyzing the Greek word kenosis using the literal interpretation method, namely looking for the meaning of the original language of writing, namely Greek. To support the literal interpretation, the researcher will also conduct a contextual, grammatical and historical interpretation study. The research on this text produces meanings including: Jesus gave up His divine attributes without losing the essence of His divinity, in order to become a limited human being and take on the form of a servant. This action not only shows the love and humility of Jesus, who is an example for Christians in everyday life, but also the understanding of the essence of Christ's theology.

This article explores the relationship between nationalism and Christian faith from a biblical perspective. Nationalism is often defined as loyalty to nation and state, while Christian faith centres on loyalty to God and His kingdom. In the Indonesian context, churches participated in the nationalism movement from the colonialism era until independence. Based on theological studies, the Bible provides insight that believers' primary loyalty should be to God, although they are also expected to be good citizens. This article uses a literature study method with a qualitative approach to analyse relevant biblical texts as well as related theological literature. The concept of nation in the Bible is examined from the perspective of the Old Testament, which focuses on the ethnic identity of the nation of Israel, to the New Testament, which expands the nation's identity into an inclusive community of faith. The article also highlights the ethical implications of nationalism for Christians, who should reflect the values of justice, love and sacrifice, and avoid exclusionary and xenophobic attitudes.

When Jesus appeared to the disciples, he said: "Peace be with you; he breathed on them and said: Receive the Holy Spirit", John 20:21-22. Shortly after that Jesus ascended into heaven. The disciples prayed for ten days in Jerusalem and the Holy Spirit came down as promised by Jesus, (Acts 1:8). In addition, no one else, be it prophets, apostles, church fathers or pastors may breathe and tell people to receive the Holy Spirit. This study aims to find the views and attitudes of Christianity in ordaining ministry or worship. In this study, the method used is qualitative descriptive with an approach to an understanding and comprehension of the importance of receiving the anointing of the Holy Spirit so as not to be extreme in the completion of ministry or worship. The Holy Spirit anoints someone so that the person experiences a change in life to become spiritually qualified and has the divine ability to carry out ministry according to his calling, with abilities that exceed human strength.

In this paper, we want to present the development of several previous writings and then make them into new topics related to God's presence in natural disasters by looking at them from the perspective of the Old Testament. There are so many responses from religious people, especially in Christianity, about God's presence in a disaster or natural disaster. There are those who think that the cause of disasters is humans themselves, there are also those who assume that disasters arise because God wants to give a warning or punishment to humans. Therefore, this article will describe God's presence in a disaster in general.  

In the Christian context, the resurrection of the dead is based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ after the crucifixion, which forms the basis of the Christian faith that all people will experience resurrection at the end of time to face the final judgment. In the Old Testament, death is understood as the separation between body and spirit. After we die, our bodies will decompose and become soil again while the spirit will leave our bodies for the afterlife, also known as Sheol. There is also a belief in the resurrection of the dead, which is the physical return of the body from the dead. This belief is reflected in books such as Daniel and Isaiah, which state that at the end of time, God will raise the dead to eternal life or eternal punishment. This concept of resurrection affirms the belief in divine justice and restoration, where each person will receive reward or punishment according to their deeds. In Christian theology, the resurrection of the dead provides hope for eternal life as well as complete redemption, and simultaneously reminds the faithful of the importance of living righteously and faithfully to God's teachings.