용서, 화해 그리고 생명

Abstract

This article examines forgiveness and reconciliation within the context of relationships and how they impact three different statuses of relationships: maintained, expanded and halted. I argue that these statuses are dependent on forgiveness and reconciliation of certain events, as the breakdown of the relationship directly leads to the collapse of the relational vitality (“vitality”). The implications of forgiveness and reconciliation in the relational context can be broken down into three. Firstly, reconciliation can not be achieved without forgiveness. In this case, when the relationship between two parties is halted, vitality is coming to an end. Secondly, although forgiveness has been granted, relationships can not be necessarily restored unless reconciliation is accompanied. As a result, no vitality can be created between the parties in this case either. Thirdly and finally, if forgiveness is followed by reconciliation, relationships can be restored, and new vitality can bloom indefinitely. There are clear boundaries between what we can and cannot forgive, as well as what we must not forgive. In this article, we will look at the rationales and consequences of forgiveness and inadmissibility, and take a close look at a few examples of the former and the latter as to what the criteria are and what rights we are entitled to. As a result, the following can be concluded: true forgiveness and reconciliation are strongly dependent on self-liberation and self-salvation of human beings, all of which becomes possible when there is acknowledgement.