Disaster Theology and Us

A rather helpful essay (for some) on the theology of disaster (or eschatology) from writer, former Zen monk, and haiku master Clark Strand can be found on today's RD (Religion Dispatches) site.

As the author notes, the tendency to ascribe disasters (particularly, natural ones in context here) to the concept of Divine justice or retribution is not new, but often found to be tried and well . . . true, depending.

To the point, he notes that, even among the more or less enlightened among us, "the desire to regain control in the face of terrifying events is so strong we might as well call it an imperative. We will do or say almost anything to put ourselves back in charge, even if that means accepting the blame or assigning it to another."

However, also noted, in Japan, at least, the prevalence of such thinking, bent or attitude may be changing.

Tokyo Governor Shintaro Ishihara’s attempt last week to evoke the specter of tenbatsu,

or “divine punishment,” against the people of Japan got him smacked down so smartly

that it’s now questionable whether he can win reelection.

Meanwhile, a senior religious leader (noted on this blog here, previously) has made perhaps the most elegant (and logical) offering and statement to the Japanese situation.

Rev. Moon: "I hope [the] people of Japan will find courage to rise again"

The donation of $1.7 million by Rev. Sun Myung Moon on March 20 for relief

of Japanese earthquake victims reflected Rev. Moon’s deep love for Japan. 
“Rev. Moon is heartbroken that Japanese citizens are going through tremendous suffering as a result of the recent earthquake,” said Rev. Hyung Jin Moon, the international president of the Unification Church who visited the Japan Red Cross office this day to convey the donation on behalf of the 91-year-old Rev. Sun Myung Moon.”  

Elsewhere, full circle? 

Failed promises . . .

A child walks in front of a banner echoing the grievances of tsunami victims who have been living in a barracks for more than six years after the disaster. Dozens of people protested in front of the Aceh governor’s office in Banda Aceh on Monday demanding the government live up to its promise of providing housing for tsunami victims. 

(Antara/Azhari) As posted on today's Jakarta Post web site.