The biblical perspective of suffering in John Paul II Salvifici Doloris

Abstract

This dissertation is introduced by trying to understand the origin of suffering in the content of Sacred Scripture. This serves as a background for the subsequent study on the biblical perspective of suffering as treated by Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic letter Salvifici Doloris. The book of Job and the Hymns of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah are highlighted as well as the Christ-event that gives redemptive value to human suffering and Paul’s understanding of this value in his own life. Other Old and New Testament figures are also highlighted in order to further develop an understanding to suffering. The conclusion is set out to incorporate all the elements brought out through the dissertation and bring them to a complete argument in order to help the reader gain a better understanding of suffering just as Pope John Paul II intended when writing the letter.