CURRENT ISSUE :
Vol. LXI - Issue No. 184 : January-April 2026
https://doi.org/10.55997/1000pslxi184
Foreword
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1000pslxi184foreword
- Author/s :
- Clarence C. Marquez, OP
Abstract :
Keywords :
A Synodal Journey with Biblical Women as Pilgrims of Hope for the Kingdom of God: Case of Deborah, Ruth, Samaritan Woman, and Mary Magdalene
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1001pslxi184a1
- Author/s :
- Miriam Alejandrino, OSB
Abstract :
Using historical-critical method, literary analysis and characterization, the paper examines the biblical texts on Deborah, Ruth, Samaritan woman, and Mary Magdalene to draw out some insights on how to embark into a synodal journey as pilgrims of hope in a world full of confusion, fake news, and artificial intelligence. In spite of modern technology, advance studies on historical, philosophical, political, and socio-economic sciences, the inspired word of God, particularly on women, remains indispensable and relevant in our present synodal journey towards the kingdom of God, the ultimate goal of humanity.
Keywords : Historical-critical method, Literary analysis, Characterization, Word of God, Synodal journey, Pilgrims of hope, Kingdom of God
‘Visions In The Night:’ A Narrative Exposition of Dreams in the Old Testament as Divine and Human Expressions of Hope
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1002pslxi184a2
- Author/s :
- Ted Patrick N. Tuvera
Abstract :
Dreams (חלום (are visions or oracles (חזון (expressed or communicated by God in the dark or while its receiver is sleeping. (See Job 33:15 and Isaiah 29:7) In popular language, “dreams” are used to describe individual and collective aspirations amid difficulties and struggles. Darkness, difficulties, and struggles are characteristic modifiers that speak of hope. As a theological virtue, hope, following Thomas Aquinas, can be described as both a Divine and a human expression that pursues a good “that is difficult but possible to obtain.” (Summa Theologiae, II-II, q. 17, a. 1) This essay will argue that “dreams” are expressions of Divine and human aspirations that fit well and, in fact, enrich the traditional understanding of hope as a theological virtue.
Keywords : Dreams, Hope, Visions, Old Testament, Biblical Theology
“Behold, Here I Am!” (Gen 22:1) as Verbalization of Trust and Hope: Insights from Transformative Learning Theory
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1003pslxi184a3
- Author/s :
- Javier Miguel A. Galvez
Abstract :
What is the significance of Abraham’s declaration of “Behold, here I am!”
in Gen 22:1? It can be taken as a statement of presence before God as he responds in readiness to God’s command. Taking insights from Transformative Learning Theory, a theory from the field of adult education that frames learning as paradigm shift, this study finds that Abraham’s declaration is also an important sign of Abraham’s trust in God—which Abraham learns through a series of transformations in Gen 12-21.
Keywords : Keywords: Genesis 22, Abraham, hineni, “Here I am!”, Transformative Learning, paradigm shift
Unexpected Grace and Hope to the Outsiders: Enter the Foreigners and the Eunuchs
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1004pslxi184a4
- Author/s :
- Arthur Fojas
Abstract :
The opening of Trito Isaiah inaugurates the entrance of eunuchs and foreigners, new members in the restored Temple of Zion. These former outsiders by law (Dt 23, 2-9) are granted admittance among the joyful congregants in YHWH’s Temple, now henceforth called to be the house of prayer for all peoples (Is 56,7). What holds this new multi-national congregation in unity? How have been the former barriers delineated by the former law abrogated or hurdled? Membership is no longer by bloodline with the Patriarchs, but fidelity to the covenant with YHWH. The intermingling of these multi-nationals with the exiled people of YHWH in a melting pot must have created a positive bond and understanding among them. The nations through the witness of the exiles must have learned about the faithful and holy character of YHWH. These are the pre-portal conditions that have given birth to the desire to be numbered among the faithful of YHWH. The returning exiles have neither reason to fear nor to be jealous of these members. On the contrary all, the newly returned exiles and the newly admitted members, are invited to joy by YHWH who has gathered them together in his temple.
Keywords : Foreigner, Eunuch, Salvation, Temple, House of Prayer, All Peoples, Covenant, Sabbath, Servants, Blessed
“Ecce Homo” (John 19:5) Behold the (Wo)Man! A Johannine Proclamation of Hope in God’s Promises
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1005pslxi184a5
- Author/s :
- Rodel D. Magin, OSA
Abstract :
In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan brought three religious images to the Philippines, including the Ecce Homo, a half-relief wooden sculpture depicting the upper torso and head of Jesus Christ. Despite persistent efforts to promote its veneration, the Ecce Homo has not achieved the widespread popularity of the Sto. Niño de Cebu. This study undertakes a critical re-examination of the Ecce Homo, focusing on its scriptural context within the Passion narrative in John 18-19. Specifically, it analyzes Pilate’s pronouncement Ecce Homo in John 19:5 to elucidate its profound significance within the Johannine Christological narrative. Moreover, this article demonstrates a compelling connection between the phrase’s meaning and the Old Testament concept of a God who actively champions the marginalized and impoverished.
Significantly, Pilate’s expression Ecce Homo transcends the immediate portrayal of the suffering Christ, encompassing the broader reality of suffering humanity – those afflicted by social injustice, ecological crisis, and moral degradation. The Ecce Homo, therefore, emerges not merely as a devotional icon, but as a potent symbol of hope in God’s promise of justice and righteousness.
Keywords : Ecce Homo, hope, Johannine Christology, justice, promise, righteousness
Spirituality, Hope, and the Care of the Self in the Book of Wisdom
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1006pslxi184a6
- Author/s :
- Randolf C. Flores, SVD
Abstract :
This essay explores the spirituality of the Book of Wisdom in dialogue with
Hellenistic philosophy, highlighting its relevance for the care of the self today. Written in Alexandria between 30 BCE and 41 CE, the Book of Wisdom presents itself not merely as a collection of sayings but as a protreptic discourse—a didactic exhortation urging its readers to adopt a way of life shaped by Wisdom. The study begins with a brief overview of the book’s threefold structure: eschatology and the hope of immortality (Wis 1–6),
Solomon’s quest for Wisdom (Wis 6–9), and Wisdom’s role in salvation history (Wis 10–19). It then examines the interior life through the categories of psychē, nous, pneuma, and kardia, emphasizing that true spirituality entails cultivating the self in openness to divine Wisdom. Central to this spirituality is hope in immortality—not as unending physical existence but as communion with God. Inspired by Stoic and Platonic traditions, the Sage
encourages spiritual exercises such as meditation, temperance, and prayer as means of self-care and moral formation. The essay concludes by noting the enduring influence of the Book of Wisdom on Christian theology and spirituality, where it continues to offer a resource for shaping life, virtue, and hope.
Keywords : Book of Wisdom, Hellenistic philosophy, Spiritual exercises, Interiority, Immortality, Hope, Virtue, Self-care
Missionary Linguistics in the Philippines (1571-1700): A State of the Art (PHILIPPINIANA RECORDS)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1007pslxi184pr1
- Author/s :
- Jorge Mojarro
Abstract :
Keywords :
Sobrak-Seaton, Michaela. Spirit, Expression and Community in the Philosophy of Edith Stein. Cham: Springer, 2024. pp . 171. ISBN: 0923-9545. (REVIEWS & NOTICES)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1008pslxi184br1
- Author/s :
- Jose Adriand Emmanuel L. Layug
Abstract :
Keywords :
Regoli, Roberto. Beyond the Crises in the Church. The Pontificate of Benedict XVI. Translated and edited by Daniel Gallangher. Indiana: St. Augustine’s Press, 2024. pp. 350. ISBN: 978-1587310713. (Original Italian edition - Oltre la crisi della Chiesa: Il Pontificato di Benedetto XVI. Torino, Lindau, 2016). (REVIEWS & NOTICES)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1009pslxi184br2
- Author/s :
- Hilario Sicat, Jr., OP
Abstract :
Keywords :
Cole, Basil, OP. Angelic Virtues and Demonic Vices: Aquinas’s Practical Principles for Reaching Heaven and Avoiding Hell. Gastonia: TAN Books, 2023. pp. 288. ISBN: 978-1-5051-2921-2. (REVIEWS & NOTICES)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1010pslxi184br3
- Author/s :
- Eugene Dominic V. Aboy, OP
Abstract :
Keywords :
Alaurin, Edgardo D. O.P. Sports in the Philippines: History, Values, Spirituality. Manila: The University of Santo Tomas Publishing House, 2021. pp. 244. ISBN 987-971-506-877-2. (REVIEWS & NOTICES)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1011pslxi184br4
- Author/s :
- Juan Miguel U. Palero
Abstract :
Keywords :
Ranasinghe, Prashan. The Homelessness of Being: Heidegger and the Meaning of Existence. Alberta: University of Alberta Press, 2024. pp. 240. ISBN 9781772127768. (REVIEWS & NOTICES)
- DOI :
- https://doi.org/10.55997/1012pslxi184br5
- Author/s :
- Reynante Labao
Abstract :
Keywords :
Editor's Note
Rev. Fr. Clarence Victor C. Marquez, O.P., SThD
Editor-in-chief
לשמע בקול תודה ולספר כל נפלאותיך׃
“That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works”
(Psalm 26:7 KJV)
The sufficient reason for the Office for Ecclesiastical Publications, for the enduring publishing of Philippiniana Sacra (since 1966) and Boletin Eclesiastico de Filipinas (since 1923), is Preaching, the unhindered proclamation of the gospel for salvation of souls, which remains as the true mission of the University of Santo Tomas, indeed, of the Order of Preachers.
Ours is a ministry of the Word - received and read, thought and taught in the Ecclesiastical Faculties of UST, through the Philippiniana Sacra; as texts written and published, disseminated and distributed in the service of the different dioceses of the Church in the Philippines, through the Boletin Eclesiastico de Filipinas.
And in this age of social communications and artificial intelligence, we take up the challenge and task of exploring and utilizing ethically these modern means in order to further the reach of our preaching, to render our message ever ancient, ever new, through means and media relevant and responsive, to be present in these new areopagi, to engage in the dialogue of life and of faith, to serve the truth in charity, to seek to sustain our efforts with focused studies and strategies, to journey with the people of God, especially the poor and the afflicted, towards the reign of God.
“Come and see…,” “ask, seek, knock…” Let these texts, both in printed and in digital forms, be testaments and testimonies to the TRUTH that sets us free, the WORD made human, “who was from the beginning, whom we have heard, whom we have seen with our eyes, whom we have looked upon, and touched with our hands, the WORD of Life… so that you too may have fellowship… so that our joy may be complete” (cf. 1 John 1:1-4).
