Can Holiness Be Reimagined As Radical Inclusivity Rather Than Separation From Difference
Holiness has traditionally been understood as a state of moral perfection or purity that sets individuals apart from sinfulness and immorality.
This understanding of holiness can lead to exclusion and marginalization of those who do not meet certain standards of behavior or belief. Can holiness be reimagined as radical inclusivity rather than separation from difference? This article will explore this question through an examination of different perspectives on holiness and their implications for social justice and liberation.
The Christian Perspective
Christianity is one of the world's major religions and its understanding of holiness has played a significant role in shaping society. According to Christian doctrine, holiness involves a process of sanctification whereby believers are set apart from sin and made holy through faith in Jesus Christ. This process requires self-denial, obedience to God's laws, and participation in the sacraments of baptism and communion. The idea of holiness as separating oneself from the world has often been used to justify discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, women, and other marginalized groups.
Many Christians have argued that homosexuality is a sin that makes someone unholy, leading to a denial of their human rights and dignity.
Reimagining Holiness As Radical Inclusivity
Some Christian thinkers have challenged this view of holiness by arguing that it should be based on love rather than law-keeping. They argue that holiness cannot be achieved through legalistic adherence to rules but must flow from a relationship with God. This perspective emphasizes that all people are created in the image of God and therefore worthy of respect and dignity regardless of their behavior or beliefs. It also recognizes the complexity of human existence and does not presume to judge others' morality based on external factors such as sexual orientation or gender identity.
Intersectional Feminist Perspective
Feminist theory has critiqued the patriarchal nature of traditional understandings of holiness, which prioritize masculine virtues over feminine traits like compassion and empathy. Intersectional feminists argue that holiness can only be fully realized when society recognizes the interconnectedness of various forms of oppression such as racism, sexism, classism, ableism, and more. Thus, true holiness requires social justice and liberation for all people, including those who are marginalized due to their identity or circumstances.
The Queer Perspective
Queer theology reimagines holiness as inclusive of diverse expressions of gender and sexuality. According to this perspective, holiness is found in relationships characterized by mutual care, reciprocity, and vulnerability. These relationships may take many forms, including romantic partnerships between same-sex couples, friendships, kinship networks, and communal support systems. By valuing these relationships, queer theology challenges heteronormative understandings of marriage and family life while affirming the inherent worth of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Towards A Radical Inclusivity Of Holiness
Holiness can be reimagined as a radical inclusivity rather than separation from difference. This perspective emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings, regardless of their behavior or beliefs. It acknowledges the complexity of our identities and experiences and rejects simplistic categories and judgments based on them. Instead, it seeks to build communities of love, solidarity, and resistance against oppression. By embracing this view of holiness, we can work towards a more just and equitable society where everyone has access to basic rights and opportunities.
Can holiness be reimagined as radical inclusivity rather than separation from difference?
Holiness is not limited to separation but can also encompass inclusivity of others regardless of their differences such as race, gender, sexuality, class, religion, etc. Inclusivity fosters tolerance, appreciation, and empathy towards different individuals who may hold divergent beliefs and practices. It challenges the traditional normative views that dictate separating people on the basis of their unique identities and characteristics.