Domestic violence is a serious moral and spiritual concern. The behaviors and crimes
violate the dignity of human beings and the basic moral principles we’re all taught during
childhood. Religious practices can not only promote healing in the world but justice and
mutuality as well. Faith communities can play a massive role in providing support for
victims of domestic violence and help hold abusers accountable. We know that Child
Protective Services (CPS), schools, daycares, and retirement homes are all educated,
and trauma-informed as well as mandatory reporters. However, what each survivor may
end up crossing paths with could be some form of spirituality. Whether that be
Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, or Catholicism. Sometimes yoga classes and wilderness
retreats can equate to the same spiritual experience that a baptism would and let’s face
it—being well grounded in some form of spirituality can provide large amounts of coping
skills for during and after a traumatic relationship.
Healing from abuse and trauma is a process and a journey that is unique to each
survivor. It’s the ability to acknowledge that the spirit of the trauma survivor—in addition
to their physical and psychological health and strength—and both need tending to. Faith
and spirituality can be instrumental in supporting the grieving and healing processes of
domestic violence survivors.
For survivors from traditionally marginalized communities, African American men and
women have often emphasized the centrality of spirituality and the role it may have
played in helping them to overcome the abuse and violence. Reconnection between
oneself and a higher power builds a strong foundation for a balanced life and purpose.
Victims with abusive partners utilize a variety of coping strategies to deal with and heal
from the sense of betrayal they’ve experienced and holding trust in a higher power can
be integral to their healing. Of 151 women interviewed in a study published by
SagePub, 97% noted that spirituality or God was a source of strength or comfort for
them. The extent of religious involvement predicted increased psychological well-being
and decreased depression. For ethnic women, greater religious involvement was
related to increased social support as well (Gillum et al., 2006).
We’re all valued in God’s eyes; we’re regarded by God as a temple, a sacred place.
Just as God does not want a temple defiled by violence, God also does not want us
harmed. His spirit dwells in us and makes us holy and we deserve to live without fear
and abuse. The scripture notes that the daughter of God rests in her confidence within
the Father and even though she may not be sure what might come next during difficult
seasons, she can rest assured that her Father has spoken. Despite the abuse or the
unforeseen challenges, it’s not our strength that provides the rescue we need, but the
strength of God and our support system. God never wants to withhold what is good for
us and freedom is part of His plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Every wife should be able to look at her husband’s hands not as a threat but as a
source of provision. During a healthy marriage, the spouse should provide countless
experiences of acts of service or affection. While spirituality may become crucial for
some victims and survivors, every church, mosque, yoga class, or other spiritual center
should have signs posted in restrooms telling people where they can find help for
domestic violence. May every therapist be on the lookout for any signs of IPV.
Spirituality throughout abuse and the healing cycles can undoubtedly provide greater
leadership and enhance training for societal members to adequately address domestic
violence. Having faith in a higher spirit can strengthen the role of individuals and
encourage survivors to become empowered and seek help. Increasing public education
efforts through church and partnering with social work professionals can establish
stronger pillars of strength for communities.
