REVELATION

Question 1

What are the 2 main types of revelation?

Answer 1

1. Propositional- Communication of some truths from God to humans. Truths are expressed in statements and propositions. E.g. St Paul- Jesus told him directly what he needed to. The bible could be regarded a propositional as it is seen as the word if God.
2. Non-propositional- Isn’t the direct imparting of knowledge but a moment of realisation coming at the end of a period of reflection. Attempts to understand the significance of revelatory events. E.g. after 6 years of hardship the Buddha finally achieved enlightenment.

Question 2

Explain why the Qur’an may be regarded as propositional revelation.

Answer 2

Representative of the world of God, revealed to Muhammad through angel Gabriel over 23 years - memorised and rested by Muslims and scribes recorded these.

Question 3

What did the Prophets of the old testament regard as non-propositional revelation?

Answer 3

The fall of Jerusalem as an expression of the judgement of Israel and its people because of their disobedience- God was at work around them.

Question 4

What did Caroline Frank Davis outline as being the features of revelation?

Answer 4

1. Sudden and of short duration.
2. Alleged new knowledge acquired immediately e.g. Moses and the 10 commandments.
3. Alleged knowledge from an external agent- e.g. St Bernadette and Mary.
4. Alleged knowledge is received with utter conviction e.g. Moses freed the Jewish slaves- shows he completely trusted in the experience he had.
5. Insights are impossible to out into words e.g. Julian of Norwich.

Question 5

What are seen as being the main content of revelation?

Answer 5

1. Universal truths- Buddha moment if realisation of universal truth in the world.
2. The future - Hildegard of Bingen claimed to revive insight from God.
3. The present- Benny Hinn claims he reviewed words of knowledge from God- “He told me in a few minutes from now every person here or home is going to receive the anointing power over demons”.
4. Spiritual help- William James in his chapter of Mysticism.
   “One day in prayer St Ignatius saw in distinct manner the plan of divine wisdom in creating the world”.

Question 6

How verifiable are revelations?

Answer 6

• This type of experience in particular is inclined to be mistrusted.
• Catholic church= rigorous tests, must be in keeping with the traditions of the church.
• Took 13 years for Fatima’s experience to be worthy of belief yet some still question the authenticity.
• Teresa of Avila -“A wise confessor must be consulted.”.