Apocalyptic Violence and Socio-Political Imaginaries from Antiquity to the Present is an innovative collection of essays that traces the enduring power of apocalyptic thought across centuries. From ancient Jewish texts to modern extremist movements, leading international scholars explore how visions of the “end times” have inspired hope, resistance, and—too often—violence. Essays examine divine violence in the Bible, revolutionary fervor in Jewish and Christian traditions, the violent undercurrents in Paul and Revelation, and the apocalyptic imagination fueling modern ideologies from fascism to terrorism. Alongside these darker themes, contributors also highlight traditions of tolerance, dialogue, and renewal within apocalyptic discourse. Born out of a groundbreaking international symposium in Lisbon, this volume bridges religious studies, political science, and history to reveal how ancient eschatological expectations continue to shape today’s socio-political conflicts. Rich in insight and global in scope, it is essential reading for anyone interested in religion, violence, and the future of humanity.
