Christian Flesh [Hardcover]

A sustained and systematic theological reflection on the idea that being a Christian is, first and last, a matter of the flesh,Christian Fleshshows us what being a Christian means for fleshly existence. Depicting and analyzing what the Christian tradition has to say about the flesh of Christians in relation to that of Christ, the book shows that some kinds of fleshly activity conform well to being a Christian, while others are in tension with it. But to lead a Christian life is to be unconstrained by ordinary ethical norms. Arguing that no particular case of fleshly activity is forbidden, Paul J. Griffiths illustrates his message through extended case studies of what it is for Christians to eat, to clothe themselves, and to engage in physical intimacy.

A theological reflection on the idea that being a Christian is, first and last, a matter of the flesh, this book argues that no single fleshly activity is forbidden and offers extended case studies of what is for Christians to eat, clothe themselves, and engage in physical intimacy. Readers familiar with Paul J. Griffiths's work know they must be prepared to encounter provocation in his new book,Christian Flesh, for Griffiths is a provocateur in the best sense, someone who intends to leave the reader uncomfortable and thereby provoke conversation. Griffiths enjoys a good scrap of the clarifying kind, and in this book I think he has invited readers of various stripes to a variety of good scraps...This book has prompted me to ponder the issues it raises more deeply, for which I have its provocative author to thank. In this trenchant and careful theological treatment of our embodiment, Paul Griffiths puts the stress exactly where it should be put -- on the possibility of transfigured touch. In doing so he does not shy away from the violence involved in all fallen caresses, nor the degree of caress that survives even in our violent touches. By focusing on the varieties of touch, he is able to untangle l38