Regret: A Theology

All human beings experience regret to some degree. Paul J. Griffiths explores this attitude toward the past and distinguishes its various kinds, such as regret, contrition, remorse, compunction, lament, and repentance. He argues that regret can be destructive or transformative, and that the LORD's regret should guide how we regret. Griffiths analyzes literature and Christian theology to show how regret can be essential for human flourishing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2021
Publisher: University of Notre Dame Press

In this profound theological essay, Paul J. Griffiths guides the reader through the intricate stages of regret, a universal human experience. To varying degrees, all individuals grapple with feelings of remorse. In this concise theological exploration, Paul J. Griffiths delves into the analysis of this mindset towards the past, distinguishing its diverse manifestations. He examines attitudes encapsulated in the phrase, "I would it were otherwise," encompassing regret, contrition, remorse, compunction, lament, and repentance. Through the utilization of literature, particularly poetry, and Christian theology, Griffiths showcases both the positive and destructive aspects of regret.

On the one hand, regret can manifest as remorse, an agonizing anguish driven by an obsessive and relentless examination of past errors, sins, and omissions. This type of regret serves no purpose and merely brings forth pain. On the other hand, when regret is coupled with genuine contrition and sorrow for past mistakes, it possesses the remarkable capacity to transform the past, which is never merely a distant memory. Moreover, in considering the phenomenon of regret within the context of Christian theology, Griffiths focuses particularly on the notion of the LORD's regret. Is it even reasonable to assert that the LORD regrets? Griffiths demonstrates not only that it is but also that the LORD's regret should serve as a guiding framework for human regret.

Griffiths conducts an in-depth investigation into the works of Henry James, Emily Dickinson, Tomas Tranströmer, Paul Celan, Jane Austen, George Herbert, and Robert Frost to illustrate how regret is not a negative characteristic of human existence but rather an essential element for human flourishing. He demonstrates that regret is not a hindrance but rather a catalyst for growth and transformation. By studying these literary giants, Griffiths reveals that regret should be modeled after the LORD's regret, fostering a sense of humility, empathy, and a longing for redemption.

Regret: A Theology will captivate scholars and students of philosophy, theology, and literature, as well as literate readers who seek to explore the depths of human emotions and the intricacies of the human condition. This essay offers a profound exploration of regret, providing valuable insights into its nature, implications, and the potential for personal growth and transformation.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780268200268