ABSTRACT
The earliest theories of crime are religious theories – ideas rooted in theological beliefs about warring supernatural forces in a cosmic battle between good and evil. Another feature of religious theories involves crime's cosmic consequences. Conservative religious interpreters of the three Abrahamic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam – often cite related scriptural grounds for harsh punishment of criminals. Medieval Christianity had for centuries coexisted with popular animistic beliefs revering nature as a sacred mother or goddess. Beliefs about God's mercy also animate 'faith-based' ministries that comfort prisoners and assist former inmates re-entering society. Not all religious theories are as righteous or hurtful when imagining punishment. 'Liberation theologies' and fervent beliefs about justice, equality and human dignity have inspired campaigns to outlaw slavery and human trafficking, secure civil rights, abolish the death penalty, reduce poverty, provide sanctuary for undocumented immigrants, promote restorative justice and combat environment crime. Criminologists have occasionally supplemented naturalistic theories with lessons drawn from religion or spirituality.
