Abstract
Within an academic environment and context of higher education, the question of disciplinary differentiation and research methodology are burning issues to adhere to the quest for scientific and sound epistemological based knowledge. While dealing with the dual tension: wisdom (sapientia) and reason (scientia), it is difficult for practical theology to identify and maintain its theological character. Under the pressure of human sciences, research in practical theology tends to turn to phenomenology so to gain clarity on the philosophical framework or paradigm for performing research projects in a systematic and methodological way. In this regard, existential phenomenology probes into the meta-realm of meaning-giving; it describes the frailty of life in terms of being (Dasein) as exposed to anxiety, dread, despair and fear of death. Due to the demand for empirical research, the threat of empiricism and the danger of Platonification (the ‘causation trap’) is discussed. To maintain both its spiritual-theological character (ministerial and ecclesial context), and its relevancy for the dynamics of life events (contextuality), a ‘spiritual empiricism’ is proposed by means of a praxis of practical theological verbing, namely understanding and interpreting, communicating and verbalising, acting, hoping, imagining, seeing, beautifying and living. It is argued that the notion ‘praxis of God’ could serve as theological paradigm in theory formation. The passio Dei is both a spiritual matter and existential-experiential entity within the encounter of God–human beings. It refers to both the reason or logic of God (ḥesed) and the wisdom of grace (compassion).
Highlights
It is a question whether theology could be rendered as a scientific endeavour
In a qualitative approach to research in practical theology, hermeneutics could be rendered as the most appropriate methodology to interpret texts, symbols and metaphors that are embedded in the realm of human and existential frailty, but at the same time are rendered as signals of transcendence related to religious experiences and processes of signification, probing the meaning of life
In De Trinitate, Augustine distinguishes between scientia (God’s judgement which implies rationality) and sapientia. In light of this distinction made by Augustine, one can conclude that the relationship between scientia and sapientia introduces a healthy tension in theological methodology: the tension between experience and revelation; between empiricism and transcendence; between rationality and wisdom; between critical reflection and awe
Summary
It is a question whether theology could be rendered as a scientific endeavour. Fundamentally with the surprise of transcendent intervention and faithful creativity (spiritual imagination); it is acutely aware of the fact that human experience is embedded in the dynamic networking of noëma as well: paradigmatic frameworks of intended meaning.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
