Issues: Suffering and the Problem of Evil |
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Introduction: The Problem of Suffering |
You do not have to look too far to see examples of suffering in the world. There are many sick and dying children suffering from no fault of their own. There are earthquakes and volcanoes erupting from time to time causing mass destruction, and leaving people without food, shelter or sanitation. We regularly hear of acts of terrorism like the destruction of the World Trade Centre in New York on September 11th 2001 that left thousands of families bereaved. We all know of relationships that have broken down and the heartache that can cause to children and other people. The list could be endless. Suffering appears to be an unfortunate part of life on earth.
Types of Suffering |
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People divide suffering into categories 1) Human made suffering
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ii) Suffering inflicted by others. Much suffering can be caused by the selfish action of others. There is enough food for the population of the world but people starve when others are greedy. A woman suffers much if she is raped and the rapist has inflicted that suffering. |
| Some suffering is caused accidentally by others. If you are involved in a car accident, the chances are the suffering you experience was caused accidentally and not intentionally.2) Natural DisastersThe suffering caused by floods, hurricanes, earthquakes etc cannot largely be blamed on other people. Natural disasters are often called "acts of God".All religions attempt to engage with the problem of the existence of suffering in this world. | |
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