Theological Discourse Research Articles

Beyond the Spirit of Gravity: a constructive Nietzschean critique of Christian theology

ABSTRACT This paper argues that Friedrich Nietzsche presents a relatively new and thought-provoking challenge to Christian theologians, urging them to avoid committing what I call ‘gravitolatry’ – an idolatrous commitment to unconditional seriousness. Drawing upon his vivid metaphor of the Spirit of Gravity, the first section of this paper will analyze how and why Nietzsche suspects this form of idolatry is deeply embedded within Christian thought. The second section outlines the intellectual sources of this idolatrous tendency, examining interpretations of Plato, Jesus, and select patristic theologians. The third section shows how gravitolatry illuminates Nietzsche’s suspicion that Christianity is a religion of ressentiment. The final section proposes a critical appropriation of Nietzsche’s insights along the lines of theological methodology and Christology. The conclusion is a plea for Christian theologians to heed the constructive challenge Nietzsche poses, which has not yet received sufficient recognition among theologians, by finding ways to reconcile levity with the gravity of theological discourse. By embracing the constructive dilemma Nietzsche presents here, theologians can pave the way for a more nuanced theological landscape that promotes laughter, strengthens joy, overcomes resentment, and fully affirms human life.

Sophia: The Female Aspect of Christ in Origen of Alexandria

Abstract This article examines the feminine aspect of Sophia, a significant title for Christ in Origen of Alexandria’s theology. It investigates whether Origen recognized and utilized Sophia’s femininity to develop a Christology that incorporates female elements or if he downplayed this aspect to counter Gnostic interpretations, particularly those of the Valentinians, who sexualized the divine. The analysis begins with an overview of the Wisdom figure in Prov 8:22-25 and its representation in Valentinian Gnosticism, highlighting Origen’s reliance on biblical texts as foundational to his theological framework. Key passages from Origen’s “On First Principles” and “Commentary on the Gospel of John” are explored to reveal his understanding of Sophia as both a mediator in creation and an integral part of Christ’s identity. The article concludes that while Origen acknowledges Sophia’s femininity, he strategically avoids sexualized language and imagery, likely to prevent misinterpretation among simpler Christians and to distance himself from Gnostic thought. Ultimately, this nuanced approach reflects Origen’s complex engagement with the feminine in his theological discourse.

Digital Feminism, Public Theology, and the Reshaping of Female Subjectivity in Ghana

Abstract Taking the online feminist group Pepper Dem Ministries as a case study, this article assesses how a public theological approach to gender activism underlies public gender discourses by allowing online feminism to attain global-local and post-colonial dimensions. This is explored through a rhetorical analysis of Pepper Dem Ministries’ online and offline discourses, and the response of young Christian women to their activism. These responses are obtained from semi-structured interviews conducted via zoom calls. The discourse of identity fragmentation in modernity frames the analysis of this data, revealing the coherence of Pepper Dem Ministries’ rhetoric with fragmentary or unsystematic theology as a mode of public theological engagement. The article concludes that the social shaping of female subjectivity in Ghana transpires as a public theological discourse influenced by and coherent with global discursive patterns in online feminism, Christian and secular feminist discourse, and public theology.

Research-Based Practices to Engage Youth in a Vibrant Catholic Church: The Case for Implementing Sacred Listening Practices

This article explores the theological and practical implications of Sacred Listening, a concept developed in response to the Synod on Synodality initiated by Pope Francis. The Synod emphasizes the church’s call to a more relational and participatory ecclesial life, rooted in listening, dialogue, and accompaniment. Sacred Listening is proposed as a theologically grounded practice designed to rebuild trust and foster deeper connections within the faith community, particularly in a low-trust environment. Drawing on the theological principles of Imago Dei, as well as contemporary social science research, the article presents Sacred Listening as a means to move beyond traditional modes of institutional authority toward relational trust and authentic engagement. The article further introduces practical tools that operationalize these principles, providing concrete strategies for religious leaders to engage with their communities more effectively. This work contributes to the ongoing theological discourse on synodality and offers a framework for creating a more inclusive and responsive church in today’s complex social landscape.

Comparative Studies of the Oral and Literary Culture in the First Century and Its Implications for African Christianity Today

This study explores the interplay between oral and literary traditions in early Christianity and contemporary African Christian practices. While early Christian communities relied heavily on oral traditions, the transition to written texts significantly shaped the formation of Christian theology and scripture. However, contemporary African Christianity continues to preserve oral traditions, particularly in worship and evangelism. By comparing these two contexts, the study highlights how Reader-Response Theory helps bridge historical and modern interpretive practices. Methodologically, the study employs textual analysis of early Christian writings and fieldwork observations of African Christian communities. Key findings show that oral traditions remain crucial for biblical engagement and theological discourse in low-literacy settings. The study recommends incorporating oral traditions into African Christian theological education to enhance faith practice.

Analysis of Patristic Interpretation of the “Shema” in Deuteronomy 6:4-5

The Patristic period stands as a pivotal era in the development of Christian doctrine, marked by profound theological and philosophical debates. Amidst these discussions, the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4-5 retains its central importance for both Jewish and Christian faith traditions, offering insights into the nature of God. This paper explored the Patristic interpretation of the Shema, highlighting the perspectives of the Alexandrian and Antiochene Schools of thought. Key theological issues addressed include the monotheistic concept of God, the symbolic significance of Israel, the unity of God, and the Trinitarian debate. A historical approach was used where the views of selected theologians were explored within their socio-cultural and political settings. Drawing from African perspectives, the study reflected on the enduring relevance of these theological inquiries for contemporary society. Ultimately, the theological insights garnered from Patristic interpretations continue to inform and enrich modern theological discourse, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary understanding. Keywords: God, Patristic Era, Shema, Trinity

Toward a Theology of Trans Opacity: Trans Studies’ Critique of Queer Theory in Conversation with Karl Barth’s Doctrine of Revelation

While it is generally known that the disciplinary origins of feminist and queer religious studies are enmeshed with the production of anti-trans feminisms, theological legacies of this historical entanglement remain largely unaddressed. Although later feminist and queer theologies might not explicitly take up these anti-trans positions, trans identity is still often instrumentalized in its incorporation into queer and feminist theological discourse for rhetorical and methodological gain without attention to the subjectivity and self-understanding of trans people themselves. This article argues that the theology of Karl Barth, when read with his feminist and queer critics, provides resources for critiquing this kind of trans instrumentalization in his doctrine of revelation and critique of natural theology. Moving beyond either reactionary dismissal or instrumentalized incorporation, this article instead argues for a right to opacity for trans people in Christian theology and practice resourced from Barth’s theology.

Theological Science in the Thought of Thomas F. Torrance: The Integration of Natural and Revealed Theology and Its Implications for Kataphysical Knowledge

In this article, the notion of “theological science” is examined in the thinking of Thomas F. Torrance (1913–2007), with particular attention paid to his synthesis of revealed and natural theology and its consequences for kataphysical knowledge—the comprehension of God via divine self-disclosure. Torrance redefines natural theology as the logical intra-structure that is crucial to theological reasoning, not as a separate field of study. Natural theology creates a full framework for comprehending divine revelation when combined with revealed theology. This research shows how Torrance’s technique reconciles human reason with God’s self-revelation, resulting in a coherent theological methodology. It analyses his reconstruction of natural theology within its proper intellectual and philosophical settings. The paper also discusses Torrance’s theological model’s applicability to Indian Christian contexts, contending that his integrated method provides an essential means of fostering a more profound theological comprehension in modern Indian churches. It becomes clear that pursuing kataphysical knowledge in the way that Torrance does is essential to promoting theological discourse and participation, especially in contexts that are pluralistic and diversified. As a result, this essay presents Torrance’s ideas as a vital addition to the current theological conversation and as a template for addressing the difficulties of faith and knowledge in a multicultural environment.

Examining Filipino Popular Piety in the light of Vatican II’s <i>Directory of Popular Piety and the Liturgy</i>: Principles and Guidelines

Celebrating popular piety in different regions reflects the vibrant, diverse, and festive culture of the Philippines. The innumerable religious practices through rites and ceremonies show the intensity and vibrance of Filipino Catholic spirituality. It is part of theheritage and unique identity of the Filipino Catholic Church to the extent that it also impacts the local liturgical calendar. Given this distinctive characteristic of popular piety, finding its harmony with the liturgy is challenging. The focus on the ritual aspect of popular piety diverges from orthodoxy, raising conflict between its praxis and Church teachings, which allows for misinterpretation and syncretism. This paper will employ a descriptive research design to assess the reception of Vatican II’s Directory of Popular Piety and the Liturgy: Principles and Guidelines (DPPL), using the method of critical reflection. It comprehensively analyzes the reception of DPPL and its profound impact on Catholicism in the Philippines. This study aims to establish an understanding of popular piety as a valid form of worship through analysis and evaluation of the process of inculturation to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of these practices. It enriches theological discourse on the realm of inculturation, which leads to the preservation of cultural heritage and the understanding that popular piety is an encounter of evangelization and culture that should be treated with profound respect and mutual understanding.

Relations of Moturidi and Samarkandi

This article highlights the relationship between Moturidi and Samarkandi, with a focus on the work “Kitab as-savod al-azam” and its significant theological elements. The study explores the connection between the two scholars, investigating whether Hakim Samarkandi was a disciple of Moturidi or merely a contemporary. The article also examines the impact of “Kitab as-savod al-azam” on Moturidi theology and its relevance to traditional Hanafi doctrine. The research delves into the theological discourse between the two scholars, addressing conflicting views on various theological issues.

Islam and the Ethics of War: Deconstructing Jihad through the Principle of Humanism in Theological Discourses

Islam and the Ethics of War: Deconstructing Jihad through the Principle of Humanism in Theological Discourses

Unveiled: Proclaiming the Essence and Message of the Gospel with Clarity, Consistency, and Conviction

In theological discourse, the gospel is the singular epicenter, the radiant core, and the transcendent blueprint of divine intentionality. This article delves into the profound assertion that the gospel represents not merely a fragment of sacred text but is the ultimate plan and proclamation encapsulating all that God has been, is, and will ever be within the expansive tapestry of the universe. The gospel's prominence transcends theological boundaries as it emerges as the pulsating heart of the Bible, casting an indelible shadow over every page and parable. It beckons us to recognize that within the sacred scriptures, every narrative, every verse, and every doctrine is unequivocally linked to one of three overarching categories: preparation for the gospel, presentation of the gospel, or participation in the gospel. Our journey through these sacred texts unveils an awe-inspiring continuum of divine action—stretching from the timeless recesses before creation to the grand crescendo of restoration in a future yet to unfold. Indeed, the Bible, we contend, is not a mere anthology of ideas but a meticulously recorded account of God's myriad acts.

The Position of the General Chapters of the Dominican Brothers Towards the Teaching of St. Thomas Aquinas and the Question of Immaculate Conception

The doctrine of Thomas Aquinas was formally adopted as the official teaching of the entire Dominican Order. Throughout the 13th and 14th centuries, general chapters placed significant emphasis on the importance of adhering to Aquinas’ views. They were deemed essential not only to maintain continuity within the orthodox tradition of the Church but also to foster unity within the entire order. Among the topics that sparked debate among medieval theologians was the conception of Mary. While Bernard of Clairvaux and the Dominicans rejected the idea of Mary’s immaculate conception, the Franciscans, led by figures like John Duns Scotus, advocated for it. This article highlights the stance taken by the Dominican general chapters in defence of Thomas’ views. Initially, in the 14th century, there were general indications supporting the maculistic understanding of Mary’s conception, but this stance shifted over time. By the 15th century, the Dominicans were compelled to embrace the immaculistic concept. The delayed promulgation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary in the mid-19th century underscores the complexity and unresolved nature of theological discussions throughout the medieval period.

The Philosophical Playing Field of the Book, “The Prospect of a Humanitarian AI”, by Carlos Montemayor

The Prospect of Humanitarian Artificial Intelligence (The Prospect of HAI) encapsulates the vast and intricate landscape of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) with both theoretical and practical nuances. Carlos Montemayor (Carlos) artfully paints a complex picture, presenting a realm of profound philosophical interest. While abstract, the book navigates the terrain crucial for AGI development, successfully capturing its multifaceted nature. This review focuses on the alignment problem, probing its epistemic and moral dimensions. Imperfect as we are, aligning AGI presents challenges: discerning viable solutions remains uncertain. The epistemic aspect of alignment of the AGI seems to be impossible for the goals Carlos is proposing for the nascent industry of AI. The moral, political, and legal aspects of alignment offer a challenging panorama, mirroring parallels between the Philosophy of AI and theological discourse. Drawing parallels with our experience in moral alignment, especially in guiding children, underscores the idea that this problem is older and more widespread. The Prospect of HAI serves as an inaugural exploration in this realm. Future endeavors should delve deeper into technical intricacies while maintaining a broad philosophical scope. It stands as a compelling precursor to the burgeoning field of philosophy of AI. Carlos should go for the 2nd edition.

Debates about belief in the western Muslim area, the exemple of Al Baji's exchange with the christian monk

Praise is due to Allah, The Unique, The One who is not in need of anything or any creature, Whom no one is God except Him, Whom is exalted and beyond having a son. Everything bears witness that He is Unique. May God raise the rank of Prophet Muhammad, whose coming was foretold in the Torah and the Evangel. May Allah elevate the status of our beloved Prophet's kin and noble companions. There has been controversies and debates between Western Islamic scholars and others throughout the ages. The ways of their debates and their writings varied. Their fatwas are based on the multiplicity of people of desires, sects, and beliefs. Some of them responded to the Christians, some of them to the Jews, and some of them provided arguments against the people of the whims such as the anthropomorphic, the Shiite, the Zahiri, the Mu’tazila, the Bakriyah, the philosophers, and others who disagreed with the Sunnah and others who deviated from the sunni tradition and consensus. Abu al-Walid al-Baji is considered one of the most prominent theologians of the Almoravid era. During my exploration of his work titled "Theological Discourse in the Almoravid Period: Characteristics and Manifestations, with a Realization of Some Examples," I was struck by his theological debates with his adversaries and his strong responses to them, including his rebuttal of the French monk and others.

SEJARAH INTELEKTUAL ISLAM: KONTRIBUSI DAN PENGARUH PEMIKIRAN Al-GHAZALI TERHADAP DUNIA ISLAM ABAD KE 11 M

This research discusses al-Ghazali's contribution and thoughts to the Islamic world in the 11th century M. The focus of the study includes al-Ghazali's success in integrating the teachings of Sufism into the mainstream of Islamic thought, reforming Islamic education, and providing criticism of philosophy that enriches Islamic theological discourse. The aim of this research is to explore the contribution and influence of al-Ghazali's thought on the development of the Islamic world, in three main aspects, namely, Islamic spirituality, the Islamic education curriculum, and the development of Islamic philosophy. Researchers use historical research methods which consist of four stages, namely, heuristics, criticism, interpretation, and historiography with a literature review approach by collecting data in the form of books, journals, documents, as well as sources of data and information relevant to the study. This research found that al-Ghazali's main contributions, such as reforms in Islamic theology, criticism of philosophy, and his influence on education and religious thought. In addition, al-Ghazali's intellectual legacy not only enriches Islamic traditions but also offers relevant perspectives in facing contemporary challenges, making his work an important reference in modern Islamic studies today.

The Body as a Battlefield: A Feminist Interpretation of Mulan as a Source of Theology in the Face of Gender-Based Violence

This study delves into the intricate interplay between cinema, theology, and gender-based violence through a feminist lens. It centers on the film Mulan as a unique source of theological reflection in addressing cases of gender-based violence. The title, “The Body as a Battlefield,” encapsulates the core theme of this research, emphasizing the body as a contested terrain where power dynamics and societal norms converge. Through a meticulous feminist interpretation of the film, we explore how Mulan’s narrative challenges traditional gender roles, illuminates the resilience of the female body, and offers a fresh perspective on theological discourse. By bridging the realms of film analysis, feminist theology, and social justice, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how popular culture can serve as a resource for theological engagement in the pursuit of gender equality and the eradication of gender-based violence.

Conceptions Of Reason And Revelation In Discourses Mu'tazilah, Asya'riyah, And Maturidiyah (Samarkhan And Bukhara)

Humans are the most perfect creatures of Allah, and they try their best to achieve the highest degree of piety, either through knowledge initiated by reason or by carrying out obligations initiated by revelation, although in the process it gives rise to heated debate as to which one dominates more, between reason and revelation so that various theological discourses emerged in Islam. So this research aims to describe the concept of reason and revelation in Mu'tazilah, Asya'riyah, and Maturidiyah (Samarkhan and Bukhara) discourses. The method used is qualitative with a literature study approach technique and then concluded descriptively. The results of the research show that the conception of reason and revelation in each school is different, they have their intensity, where the intensity of the use of reason is dominated by the Mu'tazilah school which places reason in the highest position, followed by the next school is the Maturidah Samarkand, then continued by the next school, namely the Maturidiah Bukhara and finally is the Asy'ariah school which is dominated by God's revelation while reason is given the smallest portion compared to the previous three schools.

Revelation and Communion: A Contextual Theological Approach to Diversity and Dialogue in World Christianity

Abstract Theology in world Christianity not only features theological discourse that scrutinizes the colonial legacy of Christianity, pointing out the ways in which Christian doctrines are cast in colonial power, but also presents theology from the indigenous concerns to appropriate the Christian faith. Nonetheless, the present challenge to doing theology in world Christianity extends to not only making Christianity a dialogic-livable faith but also sustaining the relationship between universality and indigeneity. This article grapples with the task of decolonizing revelation, salvation, and dialogue in world Christianity using the insights from Ecclesiam Suam (1964) and Elochukwu Uzukwu’s wholeness-oriented approach to revelation and diversity. Particularly, it reexamines the meaning of salvation in the context of a narrative and proposes that the indigenous approaches could overcome the hurdles—not reinscribe highly problematic relations between the so-called center and margins through inculturation and contextual theology—taking note that theological discourse on revelation and salvation stands in need of scrutiny.

The Church’s Role in the Social Integration of Physically Handicapped Individuals: A Theological Perspective

For a very long time, the Church has been a major force in creating a sense of belonging and support for underprivileged populations, including people with physical impairments. This paper examines the theological underpinnings of the Church’s support of social integration and how these ideas have been applied to assist those who are physically disabled. Based on theological discourse, ecclesiastical concepts, and biblical teachings, the study emphasizes the Church’s moral duty to advance inclusiveness, equality, and dignity. It examines different Christian faiths’ past and current endeavours to create outreach campaigns, programs, and structural modifications to accommodate people with disabilities. In addition, the study looks at how the Church might work with governments and civil society organizations to build inclusive and sustainable communities. Through this investigation, the research hopes to provide a theological and practical framework for enhancing the social integration of people with physical disabilities within the Church and the larger community.