STATE BUILDING AND ARMED FORCES IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURE

Abstract

The topic of state building and the armed forces in the light of the Holy Scripture reveals the theological foundations for understanding the state as a divine institution tasked with playing a key role in maintaining order and justice on Earth. According to biblical views, the state is not created to ensure an earthly paradise but to prevent disorder, chaos, and moral decline in society. The divine purpose of the state is to combat evil and protect the righteous. Accordingly, the armed forces, as part of the state structure, must serve as a means of carrying out this divine will, using force to restore justice and ensure the safety of citizens. In the context of the Book of Genesis, we observe the stages of the development of human society, from its creation to the first instances of divine intervention in human history, including the Great Flood and the restoration of the world through Noah. Consequently, each stage of divine intervention in human history can be considered a precondition for the establishment of key social institutions, among which the organs of state power and the armed forces occupy a central place. Additionally, this topic examines concepts that view the state as the result of the natural development of society and its need for organization and law and order. It also analyzes the perspective of the state as an institution that may be abolished in the future, depending on changes in historical conditions. In this context, the biblical teaching on the role of the state and armed forces assumes special importance as a moral guide for society. Thus, the role of the state and armed forces in the light of the Holy Scripture should be interpreted as the embodiment of divine will in public life, where state authority is necessary to ensure social order, protect rights, and punish criminals. This is a means of realizing justice in a world where everyone has their place and role in accordance with divine laws.