Material Christianity

Abstract

<p> Questions regarding materiality, including aspects like incarnation and resurrection, have been integral to Christian reflection from its inception, evolving over centuries to assume a central role in Christian theological discourse and schisms. Going beyond theological reflection, Christian practices, from rosaries to cathedrals, firmly embed believers in the material world until today. This connection has sparked interest in Christian materialities beyond theological circles, prompting discussions on the interplay between materiality and belief. The evolving field of social–scientific and humanistic study of Christian materialities has grown alongside the broader religion and materiality discourse. Emphasizing the study of contemporary Christianities, this chapter maps this interdisciplinary research field. It first briefly examines the historical background and development of the field, introducing certain landmark studies. The chapter then focuses on four themes in Christian materialities in particular: aesthetic and semiotic approaches, research on things and objects, spaces and places, and Christian corporeality and embodiment. <br></p>