Suffering, God, and Perspectives (9/11) – Lecture flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards capturing key concepts from the lecture on suffering, different theological perspectives, and responses to tragedy (notably after 9/11).

Theodicy

The study or attempt to explain how a benevolent, all-powerful God allows suffering.

Punishment view of suffering

A perspective in which suffering is seen as punishment from God for wrongdoing.

Divine plan

The belief that events unfold according to God’s plan; sometimes criticized as too easy or dismissive when coping with tragedy.

Mystery of God

The view that God’s purposes are beyond human understanding, requiring humility and accepting ambiguity.

Disbelief / atheism

The rejection of belief in God; can arise after exposure to suffering or through secular explanations.

Near-Death Experience (NDE)

A personal experience reported by someone near death, often cited in discussions about meaning, life, and the afterlife.

Mind blockers

phrases used to shut down painful questions about suffering, e.g., 'everything happens for a reason'.

Sanitary world

An image of an orderly, clean, and controlled world that contrasts with life’s messiness.

Unity of humanity

The idea that all people share a fundamental humanity beyond race, creed, or background.

9/11 as catalyst

The 2001 attacks that prompted reevaluation of faith, suffering, and God across perspectives.

Providence

The belief that God guides events with purpose and care, sometimes linked to the idea of a plan.

The problem of evil

The central challenge of reconciling a good, omnipotent God with widespread suffering and evil.

Ambiguity tolerance

Ability to live with unresolved questions about God and meaning in suffering.

Redemptive suffering

The view that suffering can have meaning or lead to growth, virtue, or a greater good.

Expressions of anger toward God

Emotional reactions (e.g., cursing or blaming God) after tragedy, viewed as a potentially healthy coping response.