As sojourners in a fallen world, life includes suffering, pain, and perhaps trauma. This paper focuses on a theological perspective of trauma for the purpose of caring for people holistically, both physically and spiritually. Indeed, God created human beings as embodied souls; both body and soul are important. Trauma research emphasizes the physical aspect of the person. A well-known example is Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. His work is cited frequently when discussing trauma. Research on trauma is important to understand the experiences of trauma. It, however, provides one aspect of holistic care.
For Christians, true hope is found in Christ. A theological understanding of trauma is beneficial for holistic care of people. How does biblical theology inform our understanding of trauma research? How does this understanding provide meaningful opportunities to care for people who experienced trauma? How does this understanding strengthen the church and missionaries around the world in showing the relevance of God and the Bible for hurting individuals? Unintentionally, the church could deepen people’s suffering with simplistic teachings or present a practical approach without biblical hope.
This topic is complex, but it is an area that requires further research for biblical wisdom and loving care. The paper will discuss Van der Kolk’s research, its critiques, and theological issues to consider for a Christian perspective of trauma care around the world.