The concept of Temporal life in Christianity
Temporal life refers to the physical existence individuals experience before they transition into eternal life. In various religious contexts, including India, the Catholic Church, and Early Christianity, it is characterized by struggles, material concerns, and an earthly dimension that serves a greater, eternal purpose. This earthly life is seen as temporary and finite, marked by trials and tribulations, which serves as preparation for what lies beyond death. Ultimately, temporal life is contrasted with eternal life, emphasizing its inferior nature yet significant impact on spiritual growth.
Synonyms: Worldly existence, Earthly life, Mortal life, Temporal existence, Physical life, Fleeting life, Short-lived existence, Transitory life, Brief life, Temporary life, Finite existence, Transient life
In Dutch: Tijdelijk leven; In Malay: Kehidupan sementara; In Swedish: Tempor盲rt liv; In Spanish: Vida temporal; In German: Zeitliches Leben; In Finnish: Ajallinen el盲m盲; In French: La vie temporelle
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Temporal life'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This phrase refers to the duration of one's existence on earth, specifically the period of time that Abraham will experience before his passing is mentioned in the initial section of the text.[1] (2) Temporal life is mentioned in contrast to eternal life, and it is described as an inferior nature that can nevertheless effect so much as to quicken our mortal members.[2] (3) The text mentions temporal life, in contrast to eternal life, and discusses Christ's actions in relation to both. The text analyzes the implications of Christ's responses concerning these different types of life.[3] (4) The text mentions temporal life, and then discusses how one will be distributed among the homes of eternal death or immortality when the end of temporal life is attained.[4] (5) The finite existence of beings in the physical world before reaching a state of eternal existence.[5]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) Temporal life is a man's existence, which ends with death, but still continues dependent on what comes after it in the future, and is judged by God.[6] (2) Christ's earthly existence marked by his actions, teachings, and sacrifice.[7]
From: The city of God
(1) The period of existence on Earth, in which individuals are trained for eternal life, and during which they may experience trials and tribulations.[8] (2) Temporal life refers to the earthly existence that is characterized by a limited duration, and it is the period during which humans experience the world.[9]
From: The Little Flowers of St. Francis
(1) The physical existence characterized by struggles and material concerns, which precedes the life eternal.[10]
The concept of Temporal life in local and regional sources
Temporal life denotes the physical existence of individuals prior to their transition into eternal life, emphasizing the finite nature of human experience and positing a significant temporal phase before achieving a lasting existential state.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The physical and earthly existence that Bharati believes has an eternal purpose and should not be disparaged.[11]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) The physical existence of individuals before they transition to eternal life.[12]