I'd appreciate some clarification on the concept of resurrection of the body,
or on the history of this particular affirmation. I've read Ignatius's
letters, the Apostle's Creed, and 2 Maccabees. I gather this is quite an
important concept to Catholics, never questioned after the Docetian heresy.
Also to Anglicans, as it's mentioned in the service for the burial of the
dead in the Book of Common Prayer. I'm not sure where other Protestant sects
stand.
The main point that has me confused is that it doesn't seem to be reflected
in popular belief as much as I'd expect. "Ghosts" are shown in movies as
transparent ephemerons, and even Dante's "shades" mention their own lack of
physical substance. The idea that "souls" live on after death disembodied
seems to be remarkably widespread.
Why this disparity? If I'm correctly placing the ressurrection of the body,
it seems to be far too important a belief to have been "forgotten," and I'd
expect it to be reflected in popular culture more than it seems to be.
Thanks for any advisement, suggestions, or clarifications.
pat sloane
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