Abstract:
Christian doctrine has by and large held that suicide is morally wrong, however in psychology,
suicidal tendencies and suicidal ideations are a major health problem, and for every suicide,
there are many more who attempt suicide every year. In this article, we seek to advance the
knowledge on suicide by identifying particular psychological characteristics and Christian
spiritual controversies. This research proceeds to a transversal interdisciplinary conversation
where practical theology and psychology reflect their voices about suicide. A transversal
interdisciplinary approach articulates that theology and science can share concerns, and
converge on commonly identified issues like suicide, although they differ in discipline. We
aim to create a dialogue between psychology and the Christian faith concerning suicide.
Christianity has always viewed suicide as a sinful act, and anyone who commits suicide would
go straight to hell. Even though there are no direct scripture texts on suicide being a sin,
biblical texts are used to prove that it is. However, God’s Word makes clear the sanctity of life,
thou shall not murder. According to psychology, suicide is a highly complex and multifaceted
phenomenon, and amongst others it can be a result of mental illness. We attempt to balance
the non-theological interpretation with the theological discipline. This research challenges the
Christian ideology of suicide as a sin; this perspective remains a challenge among our fellow
ministers. This study is relevant for both theology and psychology because both the disciplines
deal with the well-being of people.
INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/ OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS: The contextual perspective
challenged by this research is the understanding of suicide according to theological and
psychological perspectives. This research is done using a literature review on suicide according
to both Christianity and psychology.
