INTERPRETATION OF EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ISSUES IN CHRISTIAN AND ISLAMIC SOURCES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47980/pcy6th55Keywords:
Christianity, Islam, pandemic, qadar, religious authority, healing, sabr, tawakkul, religious discourse, mental health, COVID-19, public health policy, divine will, socio-religious responsibilityAbstract
This article analyzes the theological and socio-cultural discourse surrounding epidemics in Christianity and Islam, exploring how religious sources and traditions have influenced public health policies during global epidemiological crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. The study focuses on the religious concepts of illness, trial, predestination (qadar), divine will, and human responsibility that shape each tradition’s response to epidemics. These concepts are examined through primary religious texts such as the Qur’an, Hadith, the Bible, and the writings of the Church Fathers. In Islamic sources, notions such as destiny (taqdir), patience (sabr), trust in God (tawakkul), healing (shifa), and the importance of cleanliness (taharah) are presented as key elements in maintaining both physical and spiritual resilience during outbreaks. In the Christian tradition, religious practices rooted in divine mercy, repentance from sin, purification through suffering, and service to the community are explored. The article critically evaluates the statements, fatwas, and guidelines issued by religious authorities from both traditions during the pandemic and discusses their socio-political implications for health policy.
The study also investigates the influence of religious leaders on the social climate, their role in shaping collective consciousness, and their contribution to preserving social solidarity in times of crisis. Special attention is given to the psychological and emotional impact of religious discourse and rituals, particularly their function in promoting mental health and reducing stress among believers.
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