Evolution of Conventional Apocalyptic Concepts in Contemporary Contexts

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Dr. Liudmyla Fylypovych
Dr. Vitaliy Dokash

Abstract

This joint contribution from two Ukrainian scholars, Prof. Vitaliy Dokash and Prof. Liudmyla Fylypovych, draws on Prof. Dokash's extensive expertise in eschatological studies within Christianity and Prof. Fylypovych's sociological analysis of contemporary religiosity. The article addresses the enduring scholarly interest in classical religious themes, particularly those related to the concept of Judgment Day. Additionally, it examines the relevance of this topic in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, considering the profound implications for humanity's survival after a global catastrophe. As the authors explore the potential consequences of the pandemic, framing COVID-19 as a multifaceted apocalypse—social, economic, political, and informational—they question whether religion can maintain its role as a social regulator in the post-apocalyptic era. The analysis delves into the Bible, specifically the book of Revelation, adapting its insights to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The article also investigates whether modern religious teachings offer novel perspectives and interpretations of existing apocalyptic scenarios in response to the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic.


DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61439/SPWH9813

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Author Biographies

Dr. Liudmyla Fylypovych, H. S. Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy, NAS Ukraine

Doctor of Philosophy, Theologian, Leading Researcher of the Department of Philosophy and History of Religion at the H. S. Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Professor at the National University of "Kyiv-Mohyla Academy." Vice-president of the Ukrainian Association of Religious Studies, Executive Director of the Center for Religious Information and Freedom of the Ukrainian Association of Religious Studies.

Dr. Vitaliy Dokash, Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University

Doctor of Philosophy, Professor of the Department of Religious Studies and Theology at the Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University. Honorary fellow of the Department of Religious Studies of the H. S. Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy (National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine). Research interests: latest religious movements; late and modern protestantism; sociology of religion; social conflict and mediation.

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