May 1st Reflection: The Book of Revelations and Crime and Punishment

A man sits quietly at the desk of his apartment, alone. He contemplates writing in his journal the intense emotions and feelings he experiences, but in the moment, he realizes that his feelings are far too overwhelming and consuming to put into words. The book Crime and Punishment written by Fyodor Dostoevsky represents a criminal who is crippled by his own guilt and suffering, therefore serving as a strong example of how devastating suffering and sin are without the presence of God, as represented in the bible. Throughout biblical stories, such as the biblical Book of Job, the bible demonstrates the enhanced suffering for individuals who do not seek God as refuge or comfort. The Book of Revelations supports this idea with the words “they shall hunger no more, neither thirst no more; neither shall the sun light on them, not any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living foundations of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes” (Revelations 7:16-17). This language represents the idea that all sin, suffering, conflict, and despair in a human’s heart can be cleansed by the divine power of God. Additionally, the words “they shall hunger or thirst  no more” represents that everything a human needs to truly live is through one’s relationship with God, emphasizing that God is the source of all life and being. 
In the book Crime and Punishment, the main character Raskolnikov experiences such despair and suffering as a result of his severe sin of committing murder. He becomes consumed in his own mind and isolates himself from his loved ones and friends, suffering alone. In the epilogue of the story after Raskolnikov is arrested and condemned for his crime, he realizes that he has a deep love for a good friend of his named Sonya. This love is the saving grace for Raskolnikov as it provokes him to change his mindset and look at the bible for encouragement and strength. This ultimately symbolizes how God’s divine love for humans is salvation for all, and humans can find comfort in God’s redeeming grace and love. The Book of Revelations further supports this as it states “and he that sat upon the throne said: behold I make all things new. And he said unto me, write: for these words are true and faithful” (Revelations 21:5). The specific words from this verse “I make all things new” provides evidence that God supports the redemption and salvation of His people, as He wants to make them new and give them a fresh start. Raskolnikov’s story is a strong example showing that regardless of the magnitude of sin, God always welcomes humans with open arms and forgiveness, and human healing is enhanced by God.