The Power of Praise: Exploring the Theology of Dominion in Brazilian Evangelical Music

The Power of Praise: Exploring the Theology of Dominion in Brazilian Evangelical Music

The concept of Theology of Dominion has been used to retrospectively explain the social and political actions of evangelicals in Brazil over the past few decades. It has also been used to understand the relationship between politics and evangelicalism in real-time. Understanding the evangelical ambition for dominance and how it is manifested in practice can be gleaned from Brazilian praise music.

The introduction of Protestantism in Brazil in 1984 marked the formulation of a warrior-like form of Protestantism, characterized by triumphalism and escapism. This ideology postponed the believer's ideals of happiness to the afterlife. During this period, there were hymns in the traditional hymnbook "Salmos e Hinos" that called upon believers to fight against evil. Although we cannot definitively say that this was an early version of the Theology of Spiritual Warfare that informs the Pentecostal version of the Theology of Dominion, it certainly had a similar militaristic element.

In the mid-1990s and the 2000s, the ministry Diante do Trono, belonging to the Baptist Church of Lagoinha (MG), exemplified the Theology of Dominion in its most refined form. This ministry was able to combine elements of the Reformed Reconstructionist version of this theology, as formulated by authors such as R.J. Rushdoony and Gary North, with more Pentecostal versions. Through their musical, marketing, theological, and educational actions, the group demonstrated a discourse centered around the intention to "dominate" different spheres of society and free Brazil from various evils. The march is a well-known form within Brazilian Protestantism. In the traditional hymnbook "Harpa Cristã," published in 1941 and used by the Assembly of God, 58% of the repertoire is in the march rhythm, indicating a bellicose aspect that seems to always be present and updated within Brazilian Protestantism.

"Saudade is not exclusive to the Portuguese." It is a nostalgic longing for the past, characterized by happiness in the memory but sadness for its absence. This sentiment is deeply ingrained in our culture, as evidenced by the numerous songs that explore this theme. The Portuguese also claim ownership of this sentiment, as the word itself was brought to Brazil by colonizers and has been a part of their culture for centuries. The fado, a genre of music known for its nostalgic themes, is a prime example of how saudade has taken root in Portuguese culture. However, to say that the word and the sentiment are unique to a specific language or people would not accurately reflect reality.

The ability to express a feeling or sensation as a noun, verb, or adjective is simply a way of presenting it linguistically. It does not mean that the sentiment cannot be expressed in other languages. Saudade can be translated as "a deep longing for someone or something cherished," "the strong desire to see someone or something beloved again," or "the sadness or pain caused by the love for someone who is far away." It is a complex emotion that encompasses the joy of past experiences, the sorrow of not being able to experience them in the present, and the hope of returning to a state of happiness in the future. It is a way to express the feeling of loss and nostalgia.

Many languages have words to express a specific type of saudade, such as homesickness or longing for one's homeland. This notion of saudade also has its origins in the Greek word "nostalgia." Nostalgia can be understood as the suffering caused by the desire to return to a specific place, preferably one that we call home.

In conclusion, the Theology of Dominion in Brazilian evangelical music and the sentiment of saudade are seemingly disparate topics. However, they both provide insights into the human experience and the desire for control and connection. While the Theology of Dominion seeks to exert dominance over various aspects of society, saudade explores the longing for something or someone that is no longer present. Both concepts tap into powerful emotions and desires that shape our beliefs and actions.

Actionable Advice:

1. Reflect on the influence of religious ideologies on music and how it shapes our understanding of the world. Consider the messages conveyed in the songs you listen to and how they may reflect or challenge dominant cultural narratives.
2. Explore the concept of saudade in your own life and reflect on the significance of nostalgia and longing. How does it shape your perspective on the past, present, and future?
3. Engage in dialogue and seek to understand different theological perspectives. By fostering conversations and listening to diverse voices, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between faith, music, and society.

In summary, the Theology of Dominion in Brazilian evangelical music and the sentiment of saudade both offer unique insights into the human experience and our longing for connection and control. By exploring these topics, we can deepen our understanding of the ways in which music and emotions shape our beliefs and actions.