The Concept of Emotions in Judaism, Christianity and Islam

The traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam place significant emphasis on the role of emotions. The key words of love and fear, hope and sorrow, joy and anger are prominent in their holy scriptures, and it can be argued that religions function practically through the medium of emotion. The question thus arises as to what precisely is meant by the term "emotions." The conceptualization of emotions within the context of the respective religions has undergone significant shifts throughout their respective histories. In particular, within mystical traditions, the discussion about emotion was intensified, as it was closely linked to divine experience and proximity. This volume presents an examination of the conceptualization of emotions in the three religions and their various currents, with an emphasis on identifying commonalities and differences between them.