A Spiritual Perspective On Theological Inquiry Essay

A Spiritual Perspective on Theological Inquiry Spiritual practice and theological inquiry are not mutually exclusive, rather they possess an intrinsic connection. This relationship also exists between spirituality and self-reflexivity, promoting an examined life which connects to a larger moral vision that extends beyond the self into the community. Spirituality, theological inquiry, and self-reflexivity interact as a paradox of religious identity rooted in one’s being while also being critically open, fair-minded, and participatory in dialogue. Karl Rahner’s â€Å"The Hearer of the Message† delineates the inherent connectivity between academic and spiritual life, religious tradition and community, theology and self-reflexivity. Through the lense of Rahner, I will argue that the self-reflexive writing and pursuit of philosophical theology in both religious and academic contexts is a spiritual practice. Obstacles to an Academic and Spiritual Life Rahner underscores the interlocking relationship of philosophy and theology, and this idea directly pertains to the relationship between academic and spiritual contexts. Rather than being so opposed, the love of wisdom is akin to the love of the Divine. Stemming from a collection of sources, I will explore the relationship of spirituality to the present world, in religious and academic spheres. Schneider’s â€Å"Religion vs. Spirituality: A Contemporary Conundrum†, Sheldrake’s â€Å"Christian Spirituality as a Way of Living Publicly† and â€Å"TheShow MoreRelatedJesus And The Politics Of Interpretation816 Words   |  4 Pagesspecializes in scripture and interpretation from a feminist perspective. She has noticed masculine language which dominates in the construction of the Historical-Jesus and attempts to challenge this language to reform the context of the quest for the Historical-Jesus so it is all inclusive. 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