Biblical and Socio-Scientific Approaches to Religious Enmity

This book examines how Christian teachings on love and enmity shape group identity and conflict, with scripture and theology used both to justify violence and call for reconciliation. It explores interdisciplinary perspectives that combine socio-scientific approaches with biblical criticism. By exploring historical, biblical, and contemporary examples, this volume illuminates how religious identity influences the construction of enemies and offers tools for critically engaging with faith-based conflict. Drawing on Social Identity Theory, theological analysis, and interdisciplinary research, the book provides a framework for rethinking community engagement across difference. The contributors examine how Christianity metabolizes neighbor-enemy distinctions, addressing the contemporary re-emergence of sharp divisions despite increased global engagement. The chapters leverage insights from psychology, sociology, anthropology, literary criticism, historical analysis, reception history, and classical studies to understand how group self-identification generates both external conflict and internal conformity. This comprehensive approach helps readers understand the seeming intractability of religious enmity while offering pathways toward reconciliation and constructive dialogue in diverse religious contexts. Biblical and Socio-Scientific Approaches to Religious Enmity is ideal for scholars, students, clergy, and readers in theology, biblical studies, religious ethics, and political theology who seek to understand the intersection of faith, social identity, and enmity. It serves academics exploring socio-cognitive approaches to religious conflict as well as practitioners working to address religious polarization in contemporary communities and interfaith contexts.