Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD, Chief Editor of the Muslim Times
Belief in the resurrection of Jesus varies significantly across European countries, reflecting diverse religious landscapes and cultural contexts.
United Kingdom
A 2017 survey by ComRes for the BBC revealed that 31% of self-identified Christians in Great Britain believe the biblical account of Jesus’ resurrection word-for-word. This figure rises to 57% among “active” Christians—those attending religious services at least once a month. Conversely, 25% of Christians do not believe in the resurrection at all. Among the general population, 17% accept the biblical narrative literally, while 50% do not believe in the resurrection.
Spain
A 2008 poll by the Obradoiro de Socioloxia found that 35% of Spaniards believe in the resurrection of Jesus. This belief is more prevalent among women (50%) than men (35%) and increases with age, reaching 63% among those aged 60 and above. Educational attainment also influences belief levels, with 52% of those with only elementary education affirming the resurrection, compared to 33% of college graduates.
Germany
According to a 2023 Statista survey, 21% of Germans believe in God as described in holy scriptures, and 24% believe in a higher power or spirit. While the survey does not specify beliefs about the resurrection, these figures suggest a relatively low level of adherence to traditional Christian doctrines.
France
The same 2023 Statista survey indicates that 26% of French respondents believe in God as depicted in holy scriptures, with an additional 18% believing in a higher power or spirit. This suggests a modest level of belief in core Christian tenets, including the resurrection.
Italy
In Italy, 37% of respondents affirm belief in God as described in holy scriptures, and 23% believe in a higher power or spirit. Given Italy’s strong Catholic heritage, these figures may reflect varying degrees of belief in the resurrection among the population.
Sweden
Sweden exhibits lower levels of traditional religious belief, with 16% of respondents believing in God as described in holy scriptures and 25% believing in a higher power or spirit. This aligns with broader trends of secularization in Scandinavian countries.
Belief in the resurrection of Jesus across Europe is influenced by factors such as religious affiliation, cultural heritage, age, and education. While countries with strong historical ties to Christianity, like Spain and Italy, show higher levels of belief, more secular nations, such as Sweden, exhibit lower adherence to this doctrine. These variations highlight the complex interplay between tradition and modernity in shaping religious beliefs across the continent.
The decline in belief in the resurrection of Jesus among Europeans is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by historical, cultural, and philosophical developments. Key factors contributing to this trend include:
1. Secularization and Decline of Christianity
Since the mid-20th century, Europe has experienced a significant decline in adherence to Christianity, a process often referred to as secularization. This shift has led to a decrease in church attendance and a weakening of traditional religious beliefs, including the resurrection. The separation of church and state, along with the rise of pluralism, has contributed to this decline.
2. Influence of Rationalism and Enlightenment Thought
The Enlightenment era introduced a focus on reason and empirical evidence, challenging traditional religious doctrines. This rationalist approach led many to question supernatural events like the resurrection, favoring explanations grounded in science and logic. The rise of critical biblical scholarship further scrutinized the historical accuracy of resurrection accounts.
3. Diverse Interpretations Among Christians
Even within Christian communities, interpretations of the resurrection vary. Some view it as a literal historical event, while others see it as metaphorical or symbolic. This diversity reflects broader theological debates and can influence individual beliefs.
4. Sociocultural Changes
Modern European societies have become increasingly multicultural and multifaith, leading to a more secular public sphere. Traditional Christian narratives, including the resurrection, may hold less sway in such diverse contexts. Additionally, the rise of individualism and personal spirituality often emphasizes subjective experience over established doctrines.
5. Historical Criticism and Scholarly Debates
Historians and scholars have long debated the resurrection’s historicity. Some argue that without belief in a divine being, the resurrection is implausible, while others contend that the evidence is insufficient to substantiate the event. These scholarly discussions can influence public perception and belief.
Conclusion
The decline in belief in the resurrection of Jesus among Europeans results from a complex interplay of secularization, rationalist thought, diverse theological interpretations, sociocultural evolution, and scholarly critique. Understanding this trend requires considering these multifaceted influences that shape contemporary European religious beliefs.
The Glorious Quran and Science 
Leave a comment