The rise of religious studies since the 19th century has challenged and changed theology. Whereas some have tried to restrict it to 'scientific', i.e. philological, historical and empirical problems, others have reacted by a 'theological theology' concentrating on biblical, dogmatic and practical issues. But religious studies are not a 'neutral' substitute for theology, nor is theology a dogmatic precursor of or alternative to religious studies. The two approaches differ not so much in what the study, or in the way they study it, but in the questions they ask, the aims they pursue, the horizons in which they understand their phenomena, and the perspectives in which they pose their problems. Theology seeks to provide orientation in life, not merely knowledge about religious life and history. It goes beyond the historical, empirical and comparative study of religion by placing every thing in the light of God's presence. It may use materials from religion, but it cannot claim religion as its proper domain. For only some persons are religious, but all have to do with God. In focusing on God's hidden presence theology has no closer kindship with religion than with science, art, and other domains.

Enthalten in:
Theologische Literaturzeitung; 2001/Nr.1 Monatsschrift für das gesamte Gebiet der Theologie und Religionswissenschaft (2001)

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Serie / Reihe: Theologische Literaturzeitung

Personen: Dalferth, Ingolf U.

Schlagwörter: Selbstverständnis Theologie Methode Religionswissenschaft