Animal Afterlife? A History of Hope
Ebook
Do animals really continue conscious life after their earthly death? Is it possible that our beloved non-human companions will join us for eternity? What about wild animals? Do they actually have an immortal soul? These questions can certainly perplex anyone who has ever enjoyed and loved a pet . . . or a hummingbird . . . and a variety of answers can undoubtedly spark the curiosity of an inquiring mind. Tracing the history of thought pertaining to the concept of animal immortality, Betsy George follows an intriguing trail through centuries of western theology, including its struggles with philosophy and science. Reflection on the offered possibilities, interwoven with biblical foundation, gives confidence to positive answers to the questions posed above.
“Do animals have souls? Will you see your pet in the kingdom? What place do animals occupy in creation, redemption, and beyond? In her conversational style, Betsy George explores these ideas in this survey of biblical, theological, and philosophical thought from the Torah through contemporary cogitations. This is a topic that will appeal to a wide audience.”
—Joel Hebert, former professor, Morthlund College
“Betsy George has written an excellent academic and historical (not emotional) work exploring the question of animal souls and their existence in heaven. In it she provides a valuable survey of the views of theologians and thinkers of various persuasions through the centuries.”
—Douglas J. Douma, pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Unionville
“This has been a remarkable season for Betsy George—her work is destined to be discussed and appreciated in decades to come. Throughout thirty years of university-level research and teaching, this singular collection of eclectic and academic writing left me speechless. A second read proved even more captivating. George deftly weaves heart, mind, and soul for her reader’s personal and professional growth. I cannot more sincerely recommend this unique and timely read.”
—Pamela Vaughan Knaus, senior instructor, Colorado State University Honors Program
“Betsy George enlightens us to the words and meanings that humans use to describe life, and the issues that arise from differing beliefs of afterlife. I have lived and cared for hundreds of animals over sixty years and have learned in my heart how many animals are more compassionate, engaging, and intelligent than some humans I know. This book has the potential to stimulate readers to develop understanding and compassion for animals.”
—Kent Weber, executive director, Mission Wolf
- Title: Animal Afterlife? A History of Hope
- Author: Betsy Clark George
- Publisher: Wipf and Stock
- Print Publication Date: 2023
- Logos Release Date: 2023
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781666740110, 9781666740103, 1666740101, 9781666740097, 1666740098, 166674011X
- Resource ID: LLS:9781666740110
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2023-04-09T10:03:27Z
Betsy Clark George has taught at Covenant College, Southern Illinois University, and Trinity Christian School where she also served as principal, and has authored two books of poetry, Bright Raindrops and Farewell.