Sounding salvation: Theological perspectives on music as articulation of life

This paper proposes some theological perspectives on the phenomenon of sound (i.e. music), linking it to the gospel of salvation (i.e. well-being). Possible links between sound and music; sound and life; sound and silence; and sound and salvation are indicated. Some differences between the Western and African understandings of sound, music and life are highlighted; followed by suggestions concerning the connections between salvation, well-being, and the healing of life. A theological understanding of music as an expression of transcendence and anticipation is given, profiling it as a distinct form of hope. The paper concludes by comparing two iconic paintings that depict sound: The Scream by Edvard Munch and The Tortured Christ by Guido Rocha.

Abstract licence: CC BY

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