What is thanatology?

Answer

Thanatology is the study of death, dying, and how human beings cope with death. The term originates from the Greek word thanatos, which means “death.” Nowadays, thanatology mainly focuses on a forensic examination of death processes and the psychological aspects of the grieving process. Although the exploration of death may appear unusual, it is a crucial element in comprehending biology and medicine. Thanatology is also referenced in discussions concerning topics like assisted suicide, abortion, and organ transplants.

Thanatology did not emerge as a semi-formal discipline until after World War II. Psychologists, scientists, and philosophers, grappling with the significant death tolls of the war, started organizing their ideas into a more systematic study. This effort eventually evolved into contemporary thanatology, with a primary emphasis on the biological mechanisms of death and the psychological impacts on the dying and their loved ones.

The frequently mentioned Kubler-Ross model, also known as the “five stages of grief,” is connected to thanatology as it was initially intended to describe how individuals react to a terminal diagnosis. This sequence of “denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance” is not universally acknowledged as precise by all modern thanatologists, but it is arguably the most recognized outcome of thanatology in mainstream culture.

Contemporary universities may provide specific qualifications in thanatology, predominantly focusing on grief counseling and bereavement support.

Unsurprisingly, the Bible addresses the psychological aspects of grief and death. The book of Job serves as a sort of anti-guide for counseling a grieving individual, as Job’s companions persistently claim that the tragedy that struck him is entirely his fault. Jesus displays His empathy towards human grief at Lazarus’ tomb, where He sheds tears despite knowing He is about to resurrect the man back to life (John 11:34-36). Scripture also mentions the importance of providing careful counsel to those who are mourning (2 Corinthians 2:5-8). It refers to fasting as a way to express grief (1 Chronicles 10:11-12;2 Samuel 1:11-12). These are just a few instances of the numerous times Scripture addresses the human reaction to death and suffering.

A significant part of the Bible’s message regarding death is one of solace « Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. », (Matthew 5:4). The Christian viewpoint on thanatology is distinctive in that Christianity provides the hope of restored relationships after death. According to the Bible, suffering is not necessarily our own fault (John 9:1-3), but it can always result in good, according to God’s plans «And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. », (Romans 8:28). The greatest comfort Christ offers to the dying or bereaved is the hope of heaven «But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. », (1 Thessalonians 4:13) and the assurance that what occurs is overseen by a compassionate God (Matthew 10:29-31).