Understanding Human Suffering among Black Nazarene Devotees: A Qualitative Study through the Lens of Edward Schillebeeckx

This study analyzes how devotees of the Black Nazarene perceive human suffering using Edward Schillebeeckx’s theology of the method of correlation.The approach of Schillebeeckx has two aspects, namely, negative dialectics and positive sphere of meaning. Through these two moments, the study identifies similarities and differences in the devotees’ perception of human suffering. This study employs qualitative research, particularly content analysis. Furthermore, purposive sampling serves as a tool for conducting in-depth interviews with selected devotees, taking into account the duration of their devotion, to gather data. This aims to explore the perception of devotees regarding how they understand and make sense of suffering in the context of faith in God. The results show that devotees perceive suffering as a means of taking part in God's kingdom. Their awareness of other people's suffering, their belief that suffering is a common human experience, and the association of their own suffering with Jesus the Black Nazarene – all of these demonstrate their involvement in the devotion. Devotees find spiritual consolation. This understanding emphasizes the spiritual resilience of the devotees, portraying suffering not simply as an experience but, as Schillebeeckx believes, as a way toward greater spiritual development and a positive moment. It enables individuals to relate their suffering to a broader, divine purpose, developing empathetic and nurturing faith within the community.