School of Graduate Research Student Theses

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No place to stand: Bidirectional readings of biblical narratives through the lens of moral injury
(2022) 'Shibaoka, Atsushi.'
Moral injury emerged as a deeply debilitating experience among veterans of recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This interdisciplinary research is located at the interphase of military chaplaincy care, theological, and biblical studies. The thesis analyses moral injury as a war syndrome (i.e., deleterious impacts of war) associated with significant conflicts since 1861. Theological insights from Brian Powers contribute to building a ‘lens of moral injury’ which is then used for bidirectional reading of texts that places experience of veterans alongside those of biblical characters. The methodology differs from other approaches that typically diagnose moral injury in the biblical characters. Through the lens, a ‘force field of grace’ is discerned in God’s unfolding acts of mercy. This becomes the basis for hope for all who struggle with moral injury. An integrated approach towards moral injury and moral repair is proposed with emphasis on prevention and preparation for those sent into moral, as well as mortal danger.